Post-Assad Syria faces a grave threat from land mines and unexploded ordnance, claiming hundreds of lives and causing severe injuries, especially in former conflict zones like Idlib. Farmers and returning residents are particularly at risk, with demining efforts hampered by equipment shortages and ongoing casualties among deminers.
Related news
Hamas released two hostages as part of a ceasefire deal with Israel, involving the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners. The ceasefire aims to release 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners over six weeks. The agreement also allows wounded Palestinians to leave Gaza for treatment in Egypt.
On February 3, businesses across the US, including restaurants and retail shops, will shut down as part of 'A Day Without Immigrants' protest. The movement aims to highlight the essential role of immigrants in the economy, while emphasizing their financial contributions and calling for broader discussions on immigration policies.
US House of Representatives has approved a bill imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) after it issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence Mminister Yoav Gallant. With strong bipartisan support, the bill targets individuals assisting the ICC’s investigations, sparking criticism from human rights groups. It now awaits Senate approval.
Two American citizens, Matthew Heath, a former U.S. Marine, and Osman Khan, a Florida resident, have filed a lawsuit against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, alleging that his government operated a “criminal enterprise†that wrongfully detained them as part of a coercive strategy. The lawsuit accuses Maduro’s regime of torture and exploitation of American prisoners for political leverage with the US.
Chief adviser Muhammad Yunus expressed strong concern over recent attacks on women in Bangladesh, describing them as a deviation from the country's vision. With increasing reports of sexual violence, including rape and harassment, human rights groups highlight growing lawlessness and a lack of accountability as key issues contributing to the crisis.
Australia and New Zealand are monitoring Chinese naval ships in the Tasman Sea, raising concerns due to their unusually southern location. The Chinese task group's mission remains undisclosed, prompting close surveillance. The involvement of a powerful Renhai-class cruiser signals China's naval intentions. Both nations emphasize joint efforts to track and assess the situation.
Canada signed a $6.5 billion deal to acquire Australia’s advanced Jindalee Over-the-Horizon Radar (JORN) technology to enhance Arctic surveillance. The JORN system will help Canada detect air and maritime threats more efficiently. This move follows pressure from the US to increase defense spending.
An experimental drug by Eli Lilly, called lepodisiran, has shown promising results in lowering Lp(a) levels, a particle linked to heart attack and stroke risk, by 94% with just one injection. While more studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness, this breakthrough could be significant for those with elevated Lp(a) levels, as existing treatments are limited.
Research in the British Medical Journal links the contraceptive injection Depo-Provera, by Pfizer, to an increased risk of brain tumors, especially with extended use. This has prompted potential legal actions in multiple countries. Experts advise caution, especially for long-term use, stressing the need for transparent information for safer contraceptive choices.
Vice President JD Vance faced backlash after supporting the rehiring of Marko Elez, a former DOGE staffer who resigned due to resurfaced racist posts. Vance argued past social media activity shouldn't ruin Elez's life, while Elon Musk also supported his return. Critics argue Elez showed a lack of professionalism for a government role. Vance implied that the issue got more attention than it should have as the 25-year-old is not a cabinet secretary.