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  • Celebrities call for action against US immigration raids

    Celebrities call for action against US immigration raids

    A coalition of high-profile celebrities spanning the entertainment industry has launched a vocal campaign demanding accountability and reform of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. This unprecedented mobilization comes in response to the recent shooting deaths of two American citizens—37-year-old ICU nurse Alex Pretti and 37-year-old Renee Good—by federal agents during enforcement actions in Minneapolis.

    The movement, gaining momentum across social media platforms and public statements, represents a significant departure from the traditionally apolitical stance of many celebrities. Chilean-American actor Pedro Pascal initiated calls for a nationwide strike, emphasizing the necessity of governmental transparency. ‘Truth serves as the fundamental boundary separating democratic governance from authoritarian rule,’ Pascal declared in an Instagram tribute to the victims.

    Academy Award-winning actress Jamie Lee Curtis amplified the message with emphatic posts stating ‘THESE WERE AMERICANS! SHOT BY OUR GOVERNMENT!’ accompanied by portraits of the deceased. Meanwhile, music icon Katy Perry urged her substantial following to channel their outrage into political action, specifically advising constituents to pressure Senate representatives through budget oversight mechanisms.

    Television star Kerry Washington produced an instructional video demonstrating how citizens could effectively contact their elected officials to demand defunding of ICE operations. In a notable intergenerational appeal, business magnate Martha Stewart revealed her 14-year-old granddaughter inspired her to speak out against immigration policies she described as fundamentally un-American.

    The movement gained further momentum when Billie Eilish, the nine-time Grammy winning artist, directly challenged fellow celebrities to break their silence regarding the Minneapolis incidents. This collective activism signals a growing convergence of entertainment influence and political advocacy surrounding immigration enforcement practices.

  • Russian strikes in Ukraine kill 12, target passenger train

    Russian strikes in Ukraine kill 12, target passenger train

    In a devastating escalation of violence, Russian military forces have launched coordinated attacks across multiple Ukrainian regions, resulting in at least 12 civilian fatalities and significant damage to critical infrastructure. The assault occurred overnight Tuesday, just days after diplomatic negotiations aimed at ending the prolonged conflict.

    The northeastern Kharkiv region witnessed one of the most tragic incidents when a Russian drone struck a passenger train carrying nearly 200 people, killing at least five individuals. Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko confirmed the attack via social media, while President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strike as militarily unjustifiable, emphasizing that civilian targets have no place in warfare.

    Simultaneously, the southern port city of Odesa endured a massive barrage of over 50 Russian drones, killing three people and injuring more than 30, including a woman in her 39th week of pregnancy and two young girls. Regional Governor Oleg Kiper reported extensive damage to residential buildings, educational facilities, and religious structures throughout the city.

    The attacks extended to energy infrastructure, with Ukrainian energy conglomerate DTEK reporting ‘enormous’ damage to one of its facilities in the Odesa region. The assault has exacerbated the already critical energy situation, leaving millions without power during freezing winter conditions.

    Additional casualties were reported across multiple regions: a married couple killed in Sloviansk (Donetsk region), their 20-year-old son surviving the attack; a 58-year-old man killed in Zaporizhzhia; and a 72-year-old woman killed in her home in Kherson.

    Ukrainian air defense reported intercepting 165 attack drones overnight, though several strikes successfully hit targets, including an infrastructure facility in the western Lviv region. State gas company Naftogaz reported one of its facilities was set ablaze, marking the fifth such attack this month.

    President Zelensky characterized these attacks as undermining ongoing diplomatic efforts, urging international partners to increase pressure on Moscow. The strikes come despite recent US-brokered talks in the United Arab Emirates, with another round scheduled for February 1st according to Ukrainian officials.

  • Former US soldiers turned Palestine advocates make a run for Congress

    Former US soldiers turned Palestine advocates make a run for Congress

    Two decorated military veterans turned outspoken critics of US foreign policy have launched insurgent campaigns for Congress, leveraging their opposition to Israel’s military operations in Gaza as a central platform. Former Army Ranger Greg Stoker and retired Green Beret Anthony Aguilar are mounting third-party challenges in traditionally Republican districts, representing what they describe as a fundamental break from establishment politics.

    Stoker, a four-tour Afghanistan veteran turned political podcaster, announced his candidacy for Texas’s 31st Congressional District on January 15th. The anti-war activist framed his campaign as a rejection of corporate influence and culture wars, emphasizing affordability and governmental accountability. Stoker has pledged to refuse donations from political action committees and corporate donors.

    Eight days later, Aguilar revealed his bid for North Carolina’s 13th District, bringing a whistleblower’s perspective from his brief tenure with the controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. The retired Special Forces soldier has become a prominent voice against what he terms ‘fascist corporatization’ and endless foreign wars, advocating instead for universal healthcare, affordable housing, and living wage policies.

    Both candidates have developed substantial digital followings through their critique of US-Israel relations, particularly following Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. Their campaigns represent an unusual fusion of military credibility with anti-establishment messaging, challenging both Republican incumbents and Democratic opposition simultaneously.

    The political landscape appears increasingly receptive to unconventional candidates following recent electoral surprises and declining approval ratings for establishment figures. Stoker specifically referenced low voter participation in Texas, suggesting dissatisfaction with traditional options creates opportunity for alternative voices.

    While their military backgrounds provide conventional political credibility, their specific anti-Zionist positions and direct criticism of US-Israel relations mark a significant departure from mainstream foreign policy consensus. Both candidates have been embraced by advocacy groups critical of American Middle East policy, though their campaigns face significant challenges in traditionally conservative districts.

  • ‘Betrays our most basic values’: Ex US President Joe Biden slams Minneapolis shootings

    ‘Betrays our most basic values’: Ex US President Joe Biden slams Minneapolis shootings

    Former U.S. President Joe Biden has issued a forceful condemnation of recent federal agent-involved shootings in Minneapolis, describing the incidents as fundamental violations of American principles. In an official statement disseminated via social media platform X, Biden expressed profound outrage over the separate fatal shootings of two citizens—Alex Pretti on January 24 and Renee Good on January 7—by federal immigration authorities.

    Biden’s declaration characterized the events as unacceptable government overreach, stating: ‘We are not a nation that guns down our citizens in the street. We are not a nation that allows our citizens to be brutalized for exercising their constitutional rights.’ He specifically highlighted concerns about Fourth Amendment violations and the terrorization of communities by government actions.

    The former president commended Minnesota residents for their resilience and civic engagement amid tragedy, praising their efforts to support community members, speak against perceived injustices, and demand governmental accountability. Biden emphasized that such violence, particularly when perpetrated by government entities against citizens, contradicts core American values.

    Biden called for comprehensive, transparent investigations into both incidents, stressing the necessity of accountability regardless of authority. He extended heartfelt condolences to the families of Pretti and Good, urging pursuit of justice through proper channels. The statement concluded with a rallying cry for national self-reflection and reaffirmation of democratic principles, asserting that collective action can preserve American ideals against institutional overreach.

  • Trump says government will ‘de-escalate’ in Minnesota following Pretti shooting

    Trump says government will ‘de-escalate’ in Minnesota following Pretti shooting

    Following two fatal shootings by federal immigration officers that have ignited national outrage, President Donald Trump announced his administration would scale back operations in Minnesota. The President characterized both incidents as “terrible” during a Fox News interview, marking a significant shift in tone regarding immigration enforcement.

    The controversy centers on the deaths of Alex Pretti, an intensive care nurse at a veterans’ hospital, and Renee Good, 37, who were fatally shot during separate encounters with immigration authorities in early January. Pretti’s death during a traffic stop this past weekend triggered renewed protests and drew bipartisan criticism from lawmakers, creating mounting pressure on federal authorities.

    In response to the escalating crisis, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has reassigned Minnesota mission leader Gregory Bovino and deployed border tsar Tom Homan to assume control. Homan is scheduled to meet with local officials this week as the administration seeks to calm tensions.

    Contradictory narratives have emerged regarding Pretti’s shooting. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem asserted that Pretti was “brandishing” a firearm and accused him of “domestic terrorism,” claiming he intended to “perpetuate violence” rather than protest peacefully. However, local authorities confirmed Pretti’s gun was legally registered, and eyewitnesses challenged the official account, stating he was holding a phone, not a weapon, when shot.

    Despite announcing de-escalation, President Trump defended the overall Minnesota operation, citing the removal of “thousands of hardened criminals” and referencing a Harvard Harris poll suggesting 80% public support for deporting illegal immigrants who commit crimes.

    The shootings have prompted calls for investigation from Republican officials including Vermont Governor Phil Scott and Nebraska Senator Pete Ricketts, who described the situation as “horrifying” while maintaining his support for ICE funding. A federal judge has issued an order blocking DHS from destroying or altering evidence related to the incidents.

  • Saudi Central Bank releases official holiday schedule from 2026 to 2029

    Saudi Central Bank releases official holiday schedule from 2026 to 2029

    The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has unveiled a comprehensive four-year official holiday schedule for financial institutions spanning 2026 through 2029, marking a significant step toward enhancing economic planning and operational clarity. This unprecedented long-term calendar precisely outlines the dates for major Islamic celebrations—Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha—alongside the fixed national observances of Saudi National Day and Founding Day.

    The strategic release is designed to empower businesses, international investors, and residents with the foresight needed to schedule critical financial operations, manage liquidity, and align international transactions well in advance. SAMA accompanied the calendar with a detailed operational advisory specifically tailored for the high-volume Hajj season, emphasizing uninterrupted banking services for pilgrims.

    A key provision addresses the observance of national holidays: should Saudi National Day (September 23) or Founding Day (February 22) fall on a Friday—the weekly休息日—the official holiday will be observed on the preceding Thursday. Similarly, if either falls on a Saturday, the holiday will shift to the following Sunday, ensuring a continuous break.

    Furthermore, SAMA has issued specific guidelines for banking hours during Ramadan. Client-facing bank operations will run from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, while remittance centers and payment service providers are required to operate for a flexible six-hour window between 9:30 AM and 5:30 PM.

    Crucially, the directive mandates that banks, exchange centers, and payment providers must ensure robust service availability during the Hajj season. This includes maintaining continuous operations at branches in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, at air and sea ports of entry, and at border crossings, even throughout Fridays and Saturdays, to cater to the millions of pilgrims and visitors. Institutions are also instructed to publicize the locations and operating hours of these seasonal and extended-service branches through all appropriate channels to guarantee public awareness.

  • Times of Israel publishes 18 near-identical blogs calling for Somaliland recognition

    Times of Israel publishes 18 near-identical blogs calling for Somaliland recognition

    A coordinated online campaign has emerged on The Times of Israel’s blog platform, featuring an author presenting himself as Mohamed Osman, a retired Canadian physician of Somaliland origin. Throughout January, this individual published 18 nearly identical articles advocating for international recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty.

    The campaign commenced on January 7th with a post titled ‘Recognizing Somaliland Would Be in Canada’s Interest’ and continued with daily publications targeting specific nations and international bodies. The identical format appealed to India, the UK, Ethiopia, European Union, Kenya, Somalia, Arab League, African Union, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Sweden, and Germany, with Canada receiving a second appeal.

    Each article contained identical historical context portraying Somaliland as a former British colony with an autonomous government that has maintained stability separate from Somalia. The posts highlighted strategic economic interests, particularly emphasizing the UAE’s DP World investment in Berbera port—recently revealed to be partially British government-owned through foreign investment channels.

    Notably, the author emphasized Somaliland’s geopolitical significance along the Bab al-Mandab strait, a critical maritime corridor handling approximately 10% of global trade and substantial European energy supplies. This strategic positioning has attracted international attention, with the UAE maintaining a naval base at Berbera and Israel seeking military presence in the region.

    The Times of Israel’s blog disclaimer states that contributed posts represent third-party opinions without editorial endorsement. However, the publication maintains an application process requiring author verification and professional headshots, raising questions about how this coordinated campaign passed editorial vetting.

    This publicity surge follows Somaliland’s groundbreaking recognition by Taiwan in late December, which has intensified diplomatic activity including visits by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi’s meetings with Israeli and US officials at Davos.

  • ‘My prosthetic leg represents my love for this country’

    ‘My prosthetic leg represents my love for this country’

    At a prominent fashion showcase in Ghana, 33-year-old model and writer Abena Christine Jon’el commanded attention not merely through her presence on the catwalk, but through her powerful statement about disability visibility. Her prosthetic leg, elegantly wrapped in vibrant African kente cloth, became both a cultural symbol and a declaration of identity during last month’s Rhythms on the Runway event in Accra.

    Abena’s journey to the runway began decades earlier when a rare rhabdomyosarcoma tumor appeared on her right calf at age two. Faced with the impossible choice between radiation treatment that might leave her wheelchair-dependent or amputation, her mother chose the latter. “It was the best decision she could have made,” Abena affirms without hesitation, speaking from a restaurant in Ghana’s capital surrounded by friends and family.

    Her early life in Chicago was shaped by treatment and recovery, with movement becoming both a measure of survival and a means of rebuilding confidence. Contrary to stereotypical narratives of inspirational disabled children, Abena describes herself as “loud, a little black girl running around on one leg” who refused to be pushed around despite academic struggles.

    This unapologetic authenticity became her professional strength. After working as a poet and public speaker in the US, a transformative visit to Ghana’s Assin Manso slave river site in 2021 triggered what she describes as “a moment that rearranged my entire understanding of myself.” The profound connection to her ancestral land led to her permanent relocation just three months later, despite experiencing deep depression upon initially leaving Ghana.

    Now embracing her identity as “Ghanaian by ancestry and adoption,” Abena has found belonging through a Ghanaian mother who introduces her as her own daughter. Her advocacy work has shifted focus to addressing the stark contrast between disability representation in the US and Ghana. While acknowledging America’s imperfect progress toward inclusion, she notes that Ghana remains at the beginning of this journey—not from lack of compassion, but from lack of representation.

    “In Ghana, disabled people have not been widely showcased in a positive light,” she explains. “So stigma thrives. People do not see us in powerful or beautiful or joyful positions, they see us only in struggle.”

    Her runway appearance marked a deliberate intervention in this narrative. After directly approaching event organizers, Abena understood her presence would force a long-delayed conversation about inclusion. The resulting moment became one of the evening’s most discussed highlights, with Ghana’s Tourism, Culture and Arts Minister Abla Dzifa Gomashie noting that “her strength showed right through, speaking volumes.”

    Fashion show organizer Shirley Emma Tibilla described Abena’s walk as “a powerful affirmation that talent, beauty, and confidence know no limitations,” while entrepreneur Dentaa Amoateng celebrated it as demonstrating “what true inclusion looks like.”

    For Abena, the applause mattered less than the message: disabled people were not mere spectators but center stage. Standing at the intersection of identity, disability, heritage and fashion, she represents a new path forward for Ghana—one where inclusion is boldly demanded rather than quietly suggested.

    Her journey from cancer patient to cultural icon represents not just survival but reclamation: of identity, mobility, belonging, and place in a country that “fought for me before I even stepped foot here.” Whether on runways, behind microphones, or mentoring young amputees, Abena refuses to dim her light—or let others like her be dimmed.

    As she states definitively: “Disability is not a limitation. Having a disability is not what makes you disabled. Lack of support, lack of accessibility—that is what disables you.”

  • Trump ally Nasry Asfura sworn in as Honduras president

    Trump ally Nasry Asfura sworn in as Honduras president

    In a significant political transition for Central America, conservative business magnate Nasry Asfura formally assumed the presidency of Honduras on Tuesday, culminating an electoral process marked by unprecedented international influence. The 67-year-old construction tycoon, known locally as ‘Tito,’ secured victory in November’s presidential race by an exceptionally narrow margin following controversial interventions from former U.S. President Donald Trump.

    The inauguration ceremony witnessed Asfura taking the oath of office exactly two months after the contentious election that drew global attention. The political landscape had been notably shaped by Trump’s explicit threat to terminate crucial aid packages to Honduras—already recognized as Central America’s most impoverished nation—should his personally endorsed candidate face defeat. This extraordinary diplomatic pressure from the United States created international reverberations throughout the electoral process.

    Asfura’s ascendancy represents a continuation of conservative leadership in the strategically important Central American nation, though his administration inherits profound challenges including economic instability, migration pressures, and systemic corruption. The new president, who previously served as mayor of the capital city Tegucigalpa, now faces the formidable task of governing a nation deeply divided by the razor-thin electoral outcome and international scrutiny.

    The political transition occurs against the backdrop of ongoing regional tensions and shifting international alliances, positioning Honduras at a critical juncture in its democratic development and foreign relations. Observers note that the circumstances surrounding Asfura’s victory may have lasting implications for hemispheric relations and the perception of electoral integrity in the region.

  • Dubai to construct world’s first street made of gold

    Dubai to construct world’s first street made of gold

    Dubai has unveiled plans to construct the world’s first street made entirely of gold as part of its newly launched Gold District, reaffirming its status as a global hub for precious metals trade. The groundbreaking announcement came during the official inauguration of Ithra Dubai’s Gold District, though specific technical details and construction timelines will be revealed progressively in phased announcements.

    The Gold District, positioned as the emirate’s comprehensive ‘Home of Gold,’ consolidates all gold and jewelry-related activities into a single destination. This integrated complex encompasses retail operations, bullion trading, wholesale commerce, and investment opportunities. Currently housing over 1,000 retailers across multiple sectors including perfumes, cosmetics, and lifestyle products, the district has already attracted major international jewelry brands.

    Notable flagship establishments include Jawhara Jewellery, Malabar Gold and Diamonds, Al Romaizan, and Tanishq Jewellery. Joyalukkas has announced ambitious plans for a 24,000 square foot flagship store, marking what will become its largest presence in the Middle East region.

    Issam Galadari, CEO of Ithra Dubai, emphasized that the Dubai Gold District strategically “unites heritage, scale and opportunity” in the precious metals market. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), highlighted the cultural significance, stating: “Gold is deeply woven into the cultural and commercial fabric of Dubai, symbolising our heritage, prosperity, and enduring spirit of enterprise. Through this landmark destination, we not only celebrate that legacy but also reimagine it for a new era shaped by creativity and sustainability.”

    The development builds upon the UAE’s substantial gold trading credentials, having exported approximately $53.41 billion worth of gold between 2024-2025. The country maintains its position as the world’s second-largest physical gold trading destination, with major trading partners including Switzerland, the United Kingdom, India, Hong Kong, and Turkey.