On Twitter deal revival, Elon Musk says buyout an accelerant to...| 10 points

Hours after it was revealed that billionaire Elon Musk has proposed to go ahead with his original Twitter buyout offer, in his first public remarks, he said that buying the social media platform would be an “accelerant to creating X, the everything app”. Here are the top updates: 1. While Musk has not disclosed his plans entirely, he has said that he wants to make the social media platform “radically better.”

China Restates Need for Steady Yuan Amid Fragile Confidence

China reaffirmed its commitment to prevent one-sided moves in the yuan amid a strong dollar and poor risk sentiment in Asia. The People's Bank of China stated it would resolutely stabilize the yuan and avoid excessive volatility. The central bank's goal is to maintain the basic stability of the yuan's exchange rate through supply and demand. Analysts remain skeptical about the sustainability of China's strong defense of the yuan.

Africa’s Oldest Oil-Rich Dictatorship Has a Succession Problem

Two South African engineers were arrested in Equatorial Guinea for cocaine trafficking after the country's Vice President had his yacht seized in South Africa. The arrests are seen as part of the VP's impulsive behavior, putting the country's stability at risk. The engineers were working in the oil sector, which has been declining in Equatorial Guinea. Exxon Mobil is exiting the country, citing a long-term strategy.

Trump and Polish President Duda Discussed War in Ukraine at the Meeting in New York

Donald Trump and Polish President Andrzej Duda met at Trump Tower to discuss Ukraine, the Middle East, and NATO defense spending. Duda praised the meeting as "friendly," while Trump hinted at a possible second term. Congress is set to vote on aid for Ukraine and Israel amid Republican opposition. Duda's close ties with Trump have caused tensions in Poland.

Sydney boy accused of stabbing 2 clerics showed no signs of radicalization, Muslim leader says

A boy accused of stabbing two Christian clerics during a Sydney church service had anger management issues but showed no signs of radicalization. The boy spoke about the Prophet Muhammad being insulted after the attack, which authorities declared a terrorist act. The bishop forgave the attacker, who apologized and showed remorse. The family had relocated to avoid retaliation, and the boy had a history of offenses. Police say he may not be charged with terrorism offenses.

Here's why experts don't think cloud seeding played a role in Dubai's downpour

Cloud seeding does not cause extreme flooding like what hit the UAE recently. Meteorologists say the heavy rainfall is more likely due to climate change. While cloud seeding can enhance rainfall marginally, it is not a major factor in extreme weather events. The method remains controversial, with scientists debating its effectiveness. Despite this, governments in drought-prone regions invest in cloud seeding technology in hopes of boosting water supplies.

Belarus' parliament votes to leave Europe's conventional forces treaty already abandoned by Russia

Belarus suspends participation in the Conventional Forces in Europe treaty, a move that could allow the country to expand its military. The treaty, abandoned by Russia last year, aimed to maintain military balance in Europe. Belarus, a key ally of Russia, now awaits President Lukashenko's signature for the bill to become law. The move could potentially increase Belarus' army strength and weapon arsenal, though not guaranteed.

French President Emmanuel Macron calls for tougher sanctions against Iran as EU leaders gather for a summit

French President Macron calls for EU to increase sanctions against Iran after attack on Israel. Leaders discuss expanding sanctions to target those producing missiles and drones used in the attack. EU also focuses on war in Ukraine, ceasefire in Gaza, and economic competitiveness. US preparing new sanctions on Iran's missile and drone program. EU leaders expected to renew calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza and increased humanitarian aid for Palestinians.

US, Italy agree to work together to counter spread of misinformation

The US and Italy agreed to work together to combat foreign misinformation and fake news. The pact, signed by Blinken and Tajani, aims to promote transparency in media financing, counter information manipulation by foreign states, and assist other countries in safeguarding their elections. Both nations plan to invest in AI tools to address fake news and create a shared database on manipulation activities.

Meta shouldn't force users to pay for data protection: EU watchdog

The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) criticized Facebook owner Meta for its "pay or consent" model, where users pay for data protection rights. The EDPB stated that users should have a genuine choice for data protection, not a binary one. Privacy advocates support this opinion, while tech lobby group CCIA warns of negative consequences. Meta awaits a decision from Irish regulators on its subscription model.

Tsunami alert issued after Indonesia volcano erupts several times; thousands asked to leave

Indonesian authorities issue a tsunami alert after eruptions at Ruang volcano in Sulawesi. Over 11,000 people evacuated as volcano had five major eruptions in 24 hours. Officials fear possible collapse into the sea. Residents are being relocated to Manado. Indonesia, with 120 active volcanoes, sits along the "Ring of Fire."

Maldives' opposition parties demand President Mohamed Muizzu's impeachment over alleged corruption

Opposition parties in the Maldives demand a probe and impeachment of President Mohamed Muizzu ahead of parliamentary elections following leaked corruption allegations from 2018. President dismisses charges, sparking political storm. Calls for investigation from Maldivian Democratic Party and People's National Front. President denies allegations, opposition insists on accountability. Elections on Sunday will decide fate of Muizzu's presidency. 368 candidates vying for 93 seats.

Hamas chief to visit Turkey this weekend: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan

Turkish President Erdogan will host Hamas leader Haniyeh in Turkey this weekend. Erdogan, a vocal critic of Israel, will meet Haniyeh at the Dolmabahce palace in Istanbul. Erdogan has condemned Israel's actions in Gaza and has formed a close relationship with Haniyeh, offering condolences for his family members killed in Israeli strikes. Erdogan has called Israel a "terrorist state" and Hamas "liberators."

UN urges aid worth $2.8 billion for Gaza, West Bank amid war

The United Nations is seeking $2.8 billion in funding to assist over three million people in Gaza and the West Bank to alleviate food shortages and prevent famine. The appeal aims to help 3.1 million individuals and provide food aid to 2.2 million people in Gaza and 400,000 in the West Bank. The situation in Gaza has reached levels of critical food shortages resembling famine, prompting urgent action.

70 killed after heavy rain lashes Afghanistan

Heavy rains in Afghanistan have killed around 70 people in the past five days, with over 2,600 houses damaged and 95,000 acres of farmland destroyed. The dry winter worsened the flooding caused by spring downpours. Neighboring Pakistan also reported 65 storm-related deaths. Afghanistan, ill-prepared for extreme weather events, faces increasing severity due to climate change.

Myanmar's ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi moved from prison to house arrest

Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi, jailed former leader, moved from prison to house arrest due to a heat wave. Over 3,000 prisoners released as part of New Year holiday amnesty. Suu Kyi's health deteriorated in prison, prompting concerns from her son. Military government faces defeats amid ongoing conflict since 2021 coup. Critics say charges against Suu Kyi were fabricated. Spokesperson Zaw Min Tun did not specify if the move was temporary.