[QUICKREADS]
Floods that devastated large parts of Pakistan last month, left tens of thousands homeless and around 1,500 dead was caused due to an intense “one in a 100-year rainfall” event made several times more likely due to climate crisis, according to a World Weather Attribution (WWA) analysis. WWA, a network of leading climate scientists globally, however, could not quantify how the crisis made the event possible due to variations in the result of climate models.
Qatar's reconsideration of its role as a mediator between Israel and Hamas has raised concerns about a ceasefire and the return of hostages. Qatar successfully brokered a hostage release in November but faces criticism, prompting a reassessment. Experts believe Qatar's mediation is crucial, and if it withdraws, pressure may increase to expel Hamas from the country. Turkey could potentially step in if Qatar's role diminishes.
Iran's Foreign Minister Amirabdollahian stated at the UN that Iran is willing to de-escalate tensions with Israel if it stops military actions against Tehran. He warned of a strong response if Israel continues, citing recent missile and drone attacks as retaliatory. The US vetoed Palestine's bid for full UN membership. UN Secretary-General Guterres emphasized the need for peace in the Israel-Palestine conflict.
The United States vetoed a U.N. resolution for full membership for Palestine, with 12 in favor, U.S. opposed, and two abstentions. This is the second attempt for Palestinian U.N. membership, supported by 140 countries. U.S. officials say statehood should result from negotiations. Palestinian officials argue membership could help achieve peace. Israel opposes, citing lack of peace efforts and past violence.
Lawyers in Donald Trump's criminal trial selected 12 jurors for the hush-money case involving a porn star. Two jurors were dismissed, one feeling intimidated by public information and the other for not disclosing past legal issues. Trump's public presence complicated jury selection, with many dismissed for bias. Trump faces multiple criminal cases, but the New York trial is the only one set for this year.
New York to expand access to alcohol by allowing movie theaters to sell liquor and extending takeout cocktails from bars and restaurants. State Assembly passed measures as part of budget agreement, awaiting Senate approval before reaching Gov. Hochul's desk. Legislation includes limitations on alcohol sales in theaters and extends takeout cocktails for five years. Budget deadline extended, with final vote expected later in the week.
The U.S. Congress moves closer to forcing ByteDance to sell TikTok within a year or face a ban, as part of a $95 billion bill aiding allies. Senate Commerce Committee chair Maria Cantwell supports the measure, increasing its chances of becoming law. TikTok argues against the move, citing free speech concerns. Cantwell seeks strong legislation to address foreign app concerns.
EU leaders are pushing for the integration of the bloc's financial markets to compete globally, especially in clean technology. The single market needs updating after 30 years. Disagreements exist among member states, with France advocating for more integration. Urgency is emphasized due to economic stagnation and the need for massive investments in green and digital transitions. Former ECB chief Draghi is expected to advocate for radical change in the EU single market.
Iran urges the UN to stop Israel's military actions, warning of peril in the Middle East. Israel vows to retaliate against Iran's recent attack. Iran threatens a decisive response to any Israeli aggression, while Israel criticizes Iran's presence at the UN. UN Secretary-General calls for restraint to avoid escalating conflict.
Italian police arrested US fugitive Moises Tejada in St Peter's Square outside the Vatican, where he was found carrying three concealed knives. Tejada, a violent individual wanted by New York state prison service, was apprehended during Pope Francis' audience. He claimed to have been in Ukraine fighting against the Russian invasion before arriving in Rome from Moldova. The US is working on extradition procedures with Italy.
The European Commission proposed negotiations with the UK to restore youth mobility post-Brexit, allowing young people to work and study freely in both regions. The deal aims to enable EU and UK citizens aged 18-30 to stay up to four years in the destination country, addressing issues like university tuition fees for EU students in the UK. EU member countries will discuss and approve the proposal for negotiations to proceed.
Iran's Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian warned Israel of making them "regret" any attack on Iran after recent missile and drone strikes. He emphasized Iran's right to defend its sovereignty and promised a strong response to any Israeli aggression.
Polish man arrested for allegedly spying for Russia, plotting to assassinate Ukraine's President Zelenskyy. Accused of passing airport security info to Russian agents, seeking contact with Russians involved in Ukraine war. Arrest came after tip-off from Ukraine. If convicted, could face up to 8 years in prison. Poland has been supportive of Ukraine against Russian aggression.
Nike Inc. is close to an eight-figure endorsement deal with WNBA top pick Caitlin Clark as she prepares for her professional debut. Nike plans to launch a signature shoe line for the basketball star, joining their roster of young players like LeBron James and Kevin Durant. Women's sports are gaining more attention, with Nike recently releasing a signature shoe with Sabrina Ionescu.
A Kenyan military helicopter carrying top officials, including General Francis Omondi Ogolla, crashed and caught fire. The incident involved over 10 senior commanders.
IMF chief Georgieva highlights suffering in Yemen and Sudan, overshadowed by other conflicts like Ukraine. Middle East economies resilient despite regional challenges. IMF revises growth forecast for the region down by 0.7 percentage points. Georgieva praises Argentina's progress in reducing inflation and Latin American governments for effective economic management. Urges global fiscal restraint to prepare for future crises. Global growth forecast upgraded to 3.2 percent.