Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized their united strategy on Gaza, warning that severe action would ensue if hostages are not released. Netanyahu reinforced Israel's goals of defeating Hamas and securing hostages, with critical support from the US.
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US special envoy Steve Witkoff admitted that Hamas might have deceived him regarding a ceasefire proposal. The terms would have extended the Gaza ceasefire in exchange for hostages, but Hamas stuck to the original agreement, leading to resumed hostilities and US airstrikes against Houthi leaders.
Indonesia joins the Brics group, enhancing the influence of the Global South. Brazil announced Indonesia's entry, emphasizing its significance for strengthening South-South cooperation. Brics aims to provide an alternative to the US-led global order, having recently included Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE. Thailand and Malaysia have also shown interest in joining.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underwent successful prostate surgery, with no fear of cancer. During his recovery, Justice Minister Yariv Levin temporarily assumed the role of acting prime minister. This operation follows other recent health issues and comes amid significant regional conflicts and domestic challenges.
US President Donald Trump has fired USAID inspector general Paul Martin, a day after his office criticized the administration’s aid freeze. The report warned of $489 million in food aid at risk due to staffing cuts and policy changes. Trump, in his second term, is aggressively downsizing USAID, slashing staff and freezing aid. Critics argue the move is unconstitutional, while legal challenges have temporarily halted mass layoffs.
US egg prices have surged due to inflation and an avian influenza outbreak, which has decimated 136 million birds since 2022. Grocery stores and restaurants are now paying around $7 per dozen eggs, significantly up from $2.25 last fall. Brooke Rollins, Trump's agriculture secretary nominee, aims to address animal disease outbreaks as a top priority.
US President Trump warned Ukrainian President Zelenskyy of serious consequences if he renegotiates a rare earth minerals deal. Amid tensions, Trump expressed anger towards Russian President Putin, and Zelenskyy emphasized the need for global support and stronger ties with the US. The conflict continues with new attacks in Kharkiv, as Ukraine faces potential military offensives from Russia.
President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Brian Burch, president of CatholicVote, as US ambassador to the Vatican. Trump praised Burch's devotion to his faith and country. Burch expressed commitment to promoting human dignity and the common good. Trump highlighted Burch's role in securing significant Catholic support during the last election.
The White House website saw significant changes after President Trump's team took over, leading to the removal of pages about the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and historical presidents. The administration attributed these absences to ongoing development and editing during the transition and committed to restoring the content, including a Spanish translation section.
Vivek Ramaswamy is well aware of the fact that his Indian roots are seen in conflict with America first which he espouses. When Ramaswamy was the presidential candidate, writer Ann Coulter said she would never vote for Vivek Ramaswamy because he is an Indian. Ramaswamy openly took the criticism and said America First means America in the first place. "America First means we want America to WIN. Playing for second place doesn't cut it," he said earlier.
Lindy Li, a top Democratic fundraiser, left the Democratic Party after criticizing President Biden and Vice President Harris. She accused the party of financial mismanagement and faced significant backlash and accusations. Li plans to support Republicans, citing poor treatment from her former party.