US Border Czar Tom Homan responded strongly to Pope Francis' criticism of Trump's deportation policies by accusing him of hypocrisy. Homan defended the US's strict immigration measures while pointing out the Vatican's own security practices, urging the Pope to address internal Church issues.
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Kash Patel was confirmed by the Senate as the next FBI Director with a 51-49 vote. Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski voted against Patel, citing concerns about his previous political activities possibly influencing his tenure. Mitch McConnell, despite opposing many prominent Trump picks including Tulsi Gabbard and RFK Jr, supported Patel.
The US has removed the $10 million bounty on Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) leader Mohammad al-Jolani after he led a successful offensive, ousting Assad from power in Syria. US diplomats met with the new Syrian leadership in Damascus, marking the first high-level visit since the regime change. Discussions focused on counterterrorism, the status of missing Americans, and future relations.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) expressed deep concern over the condition of hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza. Following recent hostage-prisoner swaps, including one where captives were forced to thank their captors, the ICRC urged more dignified releases. Shock over the hostages' frail appearance has intensified calls for humanitarian access. The next exchange is set for Saturday as efforts continue for the full release of all captives.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on January 6, citing internal discontent and the departure of his finance minister. Social media reacted with memes and humor, while Trudeau prepares to stay on until the Liberal Party elects a new leader. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh plans a no-confidence motion.
British treasurer Rachel Reeves said Saturday that London was a "natural home" for Chinese finance during a visit to Beijing in the shadow of bond market turmoil back home. Speaking at the reopening of long-suspended finance talks between the two countries, Reeves said London was a "natural home for China's financial services firms and your clients raising capital, and a launchpad for Chinese firms seeking to build a global footprint".
A South Korean family has gone missing during their road trip from the Grand Canyon to Las Vegas. Authorities, following a detected phone signal near a major interstate accident, have conducted extensive but unsuccessful searches. The consulate general is collaborating with local police to expedite the search.
A Europe-bound boat capsized off Zawiya in northwestern Libya, resulting in the deaths of 16 Pakistani migrants. The Pakistani foreign ministry is expediting identification efforts, with survivors receiving assistance in Tripoli. This tragedy follows similar incidents involving Pakistani migrants attempting risky journeys to Europe.
German lawmakers have reached a deal to exempt some defense spending from the debt rules, to boost the country's defenses amid U.S. security concerns. The agreement, which involves setting up a 500 billion euro investment fund, includes funding for defense, infrastructure, and climate-related projects. The deal now awaits parliamentary approval.
Former football star Herschel Walker has been nominated by Donald Trump as US ambassador to the Bahamas. Trump lauded Walker's work with youth sports and military mental health advocacy. Walker's illustrious football career spanned the USFL and NFL, including time playing for Trump's Generals.
An AI-generated video on X outlines Donald Trump’s life from childhood to a predicted return to the White House in 2025. The video highlights significant milestones, including his education, business achievements, media presence, and political career, sparking varied online reactions about its accuracy and implications.