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.
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Amidst internal unrest and international pressure, US President Trump suggests Iran might be more receptive to discussions, emphasising diplomacy while warning of severe consequences if talks fail. Negotiations are planned in Muscat, involving US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Iran faces challenges with its proxies and economic sanctions, yet continues uranium enrichment, raising nuclear concerns.
Jagmeet Singh, leader of Canada's NDP, strongly defended Canada's sovereignty in response to Donald Trump's idea of annexing Canada. Singh emphasized Canadians' pride and resolve to defend their nation. Trump suggested that merging Canada with the US would enhance national security and reduce financial burdens. Trudeau dubbed the proposition as 'provocative and absurd.'
Pope Francis criticized Donald Trump's proposed deportation plans, calling them a 'disgrace' and inconsistent with protecting human dignity. He emphasized that the U.S. should remain a land of opportunity and inclusivity, echoing sentiments previously expressed regarding Trump's border wall. U.S. bishops and cardinals also opposed the deportation policies.
Pete Hegseth, nominee for Defence Secretary, defended his qualifications during a tense Senate hearing. He addressed scrutiny over past allegations of sexual misconduct, public drunkenness, and his views on women in combat, among others. Hegseth emphasised his commitment to military readiness and a 'warrior ethos,' drawing on his Army National Guard experience.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro rejected US military planes deporting Colombian migrants, asserting their dignity and respect. This action responds to concerns over migrant treatment, particularly after Brazil criticized the inhumane conditions faced by Brazilian deportees. Brazil demanded explanations from Washington, while military planes for deportations have sparked significant backlash.
Pope Francis, a transformative figure who passed away at 88, leaves behind a legacy of reshaping the Catholic Church with inclusivity and compassion. His papacy challenged traditional dogma by embracing marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ believers and migrants. He championed economic justice and environmental protection, while also tackling corruption within the Vatican, sparking both admiration and resistance during his decade-long tenure.
Amid brief diplomatic tensions between Colombia and the U.S. over deportations, President Gustavo Petro's daughter, Andrea, proposed sending back American sex tourists in retaliation. She highlighted the issue with a provocative statement about Medellin's Poblado district, known for its illicit activities. This tension follows Petro's attempt to block U.S. deportations before complying after Trump's economic sanctions threat.
US President-elect Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed key issues like trade, TikTok, and Taiwan in a positive phone call that both leaders hoped would start US-China relations on a constructive note. Trump pledged to address various issues immediately, while Xi emphasized caution on the Taiwan matter.
Elon Musk appears on the Time Magazine cover as 'President Musk' in an illustration done by the magazine as he and his Department of Government Efficiency gain strength in the administration. The cover story noted that no man before Elon Musk wielded such authority in the government and these are just the beginnings, it said.
The US aid freeze has critically impacted thousands in Uganda, especially those with HIV, by halting the supply of crucial ARV drugs and preventive medications. This disruption has forced clinics to shut down, risking a significant increase in AIDS-related deaths and creating uncertainty among healthcare providers and patients.