World

Gaza ceasefire talks extended as Ramadan deadline approaches

Hamas negotiators are in Cairo for ceasefire talks to end the fighting in Gaza before Ramadan. Both sides are sticking to their demands, and Hamas has presented a ceasefire agreement to Israel. The U.S. is urging Israel to provide more aid to Gaza, where famine is looming. The situation is dire, with children dying of malnutrition.

Turkey detains 7 suspected of spying for Israel

Turkey detains 7 people, including a special detective, suspected of spying for Israel's Mossad. They are accused of passing on information in exchange for money. This follows earlier arrests of 34 individuals suspected of planning abductions and spying for Mossad. This escalates tensions between Turkey and Israel, led by strong criticism from President Erdogan.

US Refuses Waiver over Pakistan-Iran Gas Pipeline Project

The US has refused to waive sanctions on Iran for the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline project, causing further delay. Pakistan requested a waiver, but the US expressed concerns and refused any concession. There's a deadline of March to complete Pakistan’s part, with a potential 18 billion US dollar fine for non-compliance. Iran has completed its pipeline, but US sanctions have stalled progress. Both nations continue exploring options to fulfill the project.

British Airways owner says 2023 profit soars six-fold

British Airways owner IAG reported a six-fold surge in net profit in 2023, reaching 2.7 billion euros and a revenue leap of almost a third to 29.5 billion euros, due to strong demand from leisure travelers. The company also nearly tripled its operating profit to 3.5 billion euros and hired 13,000 new workers last year. CEO Luis Gallego expressed optimism for the company's future growth and margin improvement.

Sweden says doesn’t envision sending troops to Ukraine

Sweden, set to join NATO, stated it doesn't currently plan to send ground troops to Ukraine, emphasizing their focus on sending military equipment and aid instead. Prime Minister Kristersson clarified that there is no demand for Western ground troops from Ukraine and highlighted the differing international engagement approaches of NATO members.

Anti-Muslim hate speech soars in India

Anti-Muslim hate speech in India surged by 62% in the second half of 2023 compared to the first six months, with 668 documented incidents. Around 75% occurred in states governed by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party, with the Israel-Gaza conflict playing a significant role. Rights groups have accused PM Modi's government of mistreating Muslims.

Missile attack causes fire aboard vessel off Yemen: maritime agencies

A vessel transiting the Gulf of Aden was targeted by a missile attack causing a fire onboard, as reported by maritime agencies. Coalition forces are responding. The attack follows a series of strikes disrupting global shipping. The UN Conference on Trade and Development warned of a significant decline in traffic through the Suez Canal.

Thousands ordered to flee as bushfire burns in Australia’s south

A bushfire in Australia's Victoria state has forced over 2,000 people to evacuate towns in the west. Residents were advised to head to Ballarat as the fire blazes out of control. With over 1,000 firefighters, 24 aircraft, and 100 vehicles deployed, authorities warned of extreme fire danger due to hot, dry winds and high temperatures.

World’s tallest man reunites with shortest woman alive after six years

The world's tallest man, Sultan Kosen, has reunited with the shortest woman alive, Jyoti Amge, after six years. With an 8ft 3in height, Kosen and 2ft-tall Amge posed for photos in Irvine, California. Both hold Guinness World Record titles. Their unique statures, resulting from medical conditions, drew attention during their reunion.

Biden to cancel another $1.2 billion of student loans

President Biden's administration will cancel $1.2 billion of student loans for 153,000 eligible individuals through the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) program. This is part of ongoing efforts to increase loan forgiveness after a Supreme Court decision blocked a broader plan. In total, $138 billion has been canceled for 3.9 million people through executive actions.