The death toll from clashes between security forces and Assad loyalists, along with subsequent revenge killings, has risen to over 600. Alawite communities faced severe violence, with many homes looted and burned. The Syrian government claims to have regained control of most areas impacted by the conflict.
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Ukraine is willing to exchange captured North Korean soldiers for Ukrainian prisoners of war held by Russia. President Zelenskyy announced this potential swap on X. Ukraine claims to have captured two North Korean soldiers and accuses Pyongyang of sending troops to support Russia. Kyiv expects to capture more troops amidst ongoing battles.
Donald Trump's second inauguration portrait drew social media buzz for its resemblance to his 2023 Fulton County Jail mugshot. Conservative supporters praised Trump's deliberate choice, viewing it as a symbol of strength. His campaign had turned the mugshot into a rallying symbol, boosting merchandise sales and reinforcing his political comeback narrative.
An Australian army officer lost his security clearance after ASIO deemed him loyal to Israel over Australia. He admitted to withholding information about Israeli military training and stated he would give classified information to the Israel Defense Forces if asked, risking espionage or foreign interference.
Belgrade is tense as a major anti-government rally looms with President Vucic's authorities trying to dissuade attendance. The rally, driven by anti-graft sentiment, tests Vucic's right-wing government amid increasing discontent. Clashes are feared as Vucic’s supporters camp in the city center. The protests are fueled by a fatal incident linked to alleged government corruption.
Deepseek faces controversy as Uyghurs allege it aids in erasing their existence from historical records. Amid genocide claims, China's self-proclaimed AI assistant dismisses them as baseless, reflecting Beijing's stance on Uyghur allegations. Reports highlight forced sterilizations and detentions in Xinjiang.
Destructive wildfires in North Carolina have led to evacuation orders in Polk County. The fires, coupled with the region's recovery from Hurricane Helene, have heightened urgency. Residents are warned of reduced visibility and potential roadblocks. Authorities have set up a shelter, while active fires also burn in surrounding counties, further straining emergency resources.
The head of the UK's national grid has said there was "enough power" to keep Heathrow Airport running on Friday, after an electrical substation fire shuttered Europe's busiest air hub. National Grid chief executive John Pettigrew told the Financial Times on Sunday that power had remained available to the airport in west London through two other substations.
Israel has accepted a US-backed proposal for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza during Ramadan and Passover. The truce includes the partial release of hostages, with a return to fighting possible after 42 days if negotiations prove ineffective. Hamas has rejected the proposed extension of the initial ceasefire.
President Sisi of Egypt and King Abdullah II of Jordan firmly rejected the forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza following US President Trump’s suggestion. Sisi emphasized Egypt’s unwavering support for a Palestinian state, while Abdullah reiterated the need to keep Palestinians on their land, aligning with the two-state solution. The proposal faced widespread condemnation from regional leaders.
Lauren Sánchez's son, Evan Whitesell, 18, is headed to the University of Miami. He'll be classmates with Kai Trump, Donald Trump Jr.'s daughter. Whitesell, who has dyslexia, is the stepson-to-be of Jeff Bezos. Sánchez expressed pride in her son's accomplishment.