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  • Bodies of Cubans killed during US raid on Venezuela returned

    Bodies of Cubans killed during US raid on Venezuela returned

    Havana witnessed solemn processions as Cuba received the remains of 32 military and security personnel killed during recent U.S. military operations in Venezuela. The soldiers, who served as protection officers for Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, perished during the January 3rd raid in Caracas that resulted in Maduro’s extraction to New York to face drug trafficking charges.

    The Venezuelan government reports over 100 casualties during the operation, marking the deadliest incident for Cuban combatants since the 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion. The fallen soldiers’ remains arrived in Havana for formal military ceremonies, where they will be honored at the Ministry of the Armed Forces before public viewings and subsequent burials across the island.

    In response to the incident, protests are scheduled outside the U.S. embassy in Havana on Friday. The confrontation has intensified geopolitical tensions, with President Donald Trump maintaining pressure on Cuba by announcing that Venezuela’s interim government under Delcy Rodríguez would cease oil exports to the island nation.

    This energy cutoff represents a severe blow to Cuba’s already strained economy, which has been grappling with acute shortages and depends heavily on Venezuelan petroleum. The Cuban government has vowed to resist Washington’s pressure and economic embargo, though citizens express growing concerns about worsening electricity shortages and food scarcity amid escalating hostilities with the United States.

    The U.S. military intervention included air strikes supporting elite units that targeted Maduro’s compound, significantly altering the regional power dynamics and testing the decades-old alliance between Cuba and Venezuela.

  • Possible US strike appears on hold as Iran says no executions planned

    Possible US strike appears on hold as Iran says no executions planned

    A looming U.S. military confrontation with Iran has been temporarily averted following Tehran’s assurance that it would not carry out executions of anti-government demonstrators. President Donald Trump announced from the Oval Office that “very important sources” had provided guarantees that planned executions would not proceed, prompting a cautious American stance of “watch and see.”

    The development follows days of escalating tensions that saw Iran close its airspace for five hours and Israeli municipalities open bomb shelters. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied execution plans, with state media subsequently reporting that Erfan Soltani, a 26-year-old arrested during Karaj protests, would not face capital punishment.

    Human rights organizations report staggering casualties from the unrest that began December 28th over economic grievances. Norway-based Iran Human Rights documented at least 734 protester deaths, while other estimates exceed 3,400 fatalities. More than 10,000 individuals have been arrested during the suppression of demonstrations that intensified after Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei declared rioters “must be put in their place.”

    Iranian officials accused Israel of orchestrating violence to provoke American intervention, with Revolutionary Guard commander Mohammad Pakpour stating Iran maintains “height of readiness” to respond to enemy miscalculations. The regime has warned it would strike Israeli and U.S. military bases if attacked.

    The international community has responded with heightened caution. Germany’s Lufthansa suspended flights through Iranian airspace, while Britain closed its Tehran embassy and India advised citizens to depart. The UN Security Council will convene to address the crisis after U.S. request, though Iran seeks condemnation of what it calls American destabilization efforts.

    China and Turkey have urged restraint and dialogue, countering Washington’s rhetoric as diplomatic channels remain active amid the fragile truce.

  • Trump questions Reza Pahlavi’s ability to garner support in Iran

    Trump questions Reza Pahlavi’s ability to garner support in Iran

    In a revealing Oval Office interview with Reuters, President Donald Trump offered cautious commentary on Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi’s political prospects while addressing multiple international issues. The president characterized Pahlavi as “very nice” but expressed skepticism about his acceptance within Iran, stating, “I don’t know how he’d play within his own country” and emphasizing that the U.S. hadn’t reached the point of endorsing his leadership.

    Trump acknowledged the possibility of Iran’s clerical government collapsing amid ongoing protests but noted that “any regime can fail” and described the situation as “an interesting period of time.” Pahlavi, the 65-year-old son of Iran’s last shah who has lived in exile since before the 1979 revolution, has emerged as a prominent voice within the fragmented Iranian opposition movement.

    The president also turned his attention to Ukraine, identifying President Volodymyr Zelensky as the primary obstacle to resolving the four-year conflict with Russia. Trump asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin is “ready to make a deal” and placed responsibility on Zelensky to move negotiations forward.

    Domestically, Trump dismissed concerns from Republican lawmakers about Justice Department investigations into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, stating simply that GOP legislators “should be loyal.” He similarly rejected criticism from JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon regarding potential inflation spikes resulting from Fed interference.

    The president previewed his upcoming meeting with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, noting they would “talk basics” during their first in-person meeting since Trump directed the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Trump praised acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez, describing their recent conversation as “fascinating” and noting she’s “been very good to deal with.”

    Despite lingering economic concerns among Americans, Trump emphasized his intention to promote U.S. economic strength at the upcoming World Economic Forum in Davos, where he plans to highlight strong job numbers and economic performance. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the president would hold bilateral meetings with Swiss, Polish, and Egyptian leaders during the international gathering.

  • BNW Developments and Radisson Hotel Group announce the signing of Radisson Blu Hotel and Radisson Blu Residences at RAK Central, Ras Al Khaimah

    BNW Developments and Radisson Hotel Group announce the signing of Radisson Blu Hotel and Radisson Blu Residences at RAK Central, Ras Al Khaimah

    In a significant move for UAE’s hospitality and real estate sectors, Radisson Hotel Group has forged a strategic partnership with BNW Developments to establish a new Radisson Blu presence in Ras Al Khaimah. The agreement, signed on January 15, 2026, will bring both a premium hotel and branded residences to the heart of RAK Central—a developing financial hub scheduled to open in 2029.

    The development forms part of a comprehensive 3.1 million square foot master plan designed to integrate commercial, financial, residential, and recreational facilities. Strategically positioned near Al Marjan Island and Al Hamra Village, the site offers direct access to the E11 highway, connecting Ras Al Khaimah with other emirates and key tourist attractions.

    According to Ankur Aggarwal, Chairman and Founder of BNW Developments, this project represents a milestone in the company’s vision to transform Ras Al Khaimah into a prominent destination. “We are focused on delivering a development that sets a new benchmark for branded living in the UAE,” he stated, emphasizing the commercial resilience and international appeal of the mixed-use asset.

    Dr. Vivek Anand Oberoi, Managing Director and Co-Founder of BNW Developments, highlighted the lifestyle-oriented approach: “We curate lifestyles that redefine the living experience. Bringing Radisson Blu to RAK Central reflects our pursuit of excellence.”

    Elie Milky, Chief Development Officer for the Middle East, North Africa, Cyprus, and Greece at Radisson Hotel Group, noted the emirate’s strong infrastructure and investment potential as key factors driving the expansion. “Ras Al Khaimah stands out for its expanding mix of demand drivers,” he remarked.

    The Radisson Blu Hotel will feature 361 rooms situated above retail and cinema venues, along with five food and beverage outlets, a rooftop terrace, pool bar, meeting spaces, spa, gym, Business Class lounge, and a kids’ club. Adjacent to it, the Radisson Blu Residences will offer 222 units with access to hotel-style services and amenities.

    This project underscores the growing trend of branded residences in the Gulf region, where buyers increasingly seek homes backed by trusted hospitality brands. Radisson Hotel Group continues to strengthen its regional portfolio, with over 100 properties currently operational or in development across the Middle East.

  • 2 dead as crane topples on Thailand’s Rama II Road

    2 dead as crane topples on Thailand’s Rama II Road

    A catastrophic construction accident unfolded on Thursday morning along Bangkok’s critical Rama II Road, resulting in multiple casualties and severe traffic disruptions. The incident occurred when a massive operational crane positioned on an overpass structure suddenly collapsed, crashing onto the highway below.

    According to confirmed reports from Thai emergency services, the falling crane directly struck two moving vehicles traveling beneath the overpass. The impact proved immediately fatal for two individuals, while several others sustained injuries of varying severity. The precise condition of the injured victims remains under assessment by medical personnel.

    Rama II Road serves as a principal transportation artery connecting Thailand’s capital city with Samut Sakhon province, making this incident particularly disruptive to regional commerce and daily commutes. Emergency response teams, including specialized rescue units and medical first responders, swiftly mobilized to the crash site following the accident.

    Visual documentation from the scene depicts the dramatic scale of the collapse, with the massive crane structure lying across multiple lanes of the highway. The complex rescue operation involved extracting victims from damaged vehicles while ensuring the structural stability of the surrounding area.

    Authorities have initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause of the crane failure, with preliminary assessments suggesting potential structural or operational deficiencies. The construction company involved has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.

    Traffic management systems have been implemented to redirect vehicles through alternative routes, though significant congestion is anticipated throughout the day as cleanup and investigation efforts continue.

  • Pope seeks to console families of young Italian victims of New Year’s Swiss Alps bar fire

    Pope seeks to console families of young Italian victims of New Year’s Swiss Alps bar fire

    In a deeply moving audience at the Vatican on Thursday, Pope Leo XIV extended heartfelt consolation to families of Italian teenagers affected by the devastating New Year’s Eve fire at a Swiss alpine resort. The pontiff personally addressed approximately two dozen grieving relatives, diverging from his prepared remarks to emphasize his immediate agreement to meet them upon learning of their request.

    The tragic incident at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana resulted in 40 fatalities and 116 injuries, predominantly affecting young revelers during holiday celebrations. Among the victims were six Italian citizens who lost their lives, with thirteen others sustaining injuries—a circumstance that has captured national attention and prompted significant governmental response.

    Pope Leo, historically notable as the first American pontiff, acknowledged the limitations of verbal comfort in mitigating profound grief, yet encouraged families to seek solace through spiritual resilience. “The faith inherent within us illuminates our darkest and most painful experiences with irreplaceable light,” he affirmed, “guiding us courageously forward toward meaningful resolution.”

    Concurrent with the papal audience, Italian government officials engaged with affected families to address ongoing investigative developments. Authorities across multiple jurisdictions have launched probes into the catastrophe, with Swiss investigators treating bar proprietors under suspicion of involuntary homicide, bodily harm, and fire-related negligence.

    Forensic inquiries focus on whether soundproofing materials complied with safety standards and if decorative sparking candles—identified as the probable ignition source—were legally permitted within the establishment. Documentation reveals that no fire safety inspections had occurred at the venue since 2019.

    Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani characterized the event as a national “open wound” during recent parliamentary briefings, confirming Italy’s intention to participate in Swiss proceedings as an injured party. The government demands comprehensive transparency regarding what officials describe as “manifest negligent behavior” contributing to the preventable tragedy.

  • Remains of 32 Cuban officers killed during strike on Venezuela repatriated as US threat lingers

    Remains of 32 Cuban officers killed during strike on Venezuela repatriated as US threat lingers

    HAVANA — In an emotionally charged ceremony marking Cuba’s first mass funeral in decades, the nation honored 32 military officers killed during a recent operation in Venezuela. The solemn event unfolded at Havana’s airport where uniformed soldiers carried urns containing the remains of the deceased personnel amid trumpet and drum tributes.

    Thousands of citizens lined the iconic streets of the capital as military vehicles transported the remains to the Ministry of the Armed Forces headquarters adjacent to Revolution Square. The ceremony featured President Miguel Díaz-Canel and former leader Raúl Castro, both appearing in military attire, standing in silent tribute alongside grieving family members.

    The fatalities occurred during what Cuban authorities describe as a security protection detail for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro during a January 3rd raid on his residence. The deceased personnel, ranging from colonels to captains aged 26-60, were reportedly fulfilling bilateral protection agreements between Cuba and Venezuela.

    This mourning ceremony occurs against escalating diplomatic tensions with the United States. The Trump administration recently issued warnings to Cuba regarding its relationship with Venezuela, threatening potential catastrophic consequences for the island nation’s already fragile energy infrastructure. In a contrasting move, the U.S. simultaneously announced $3 million in hurricane recovery aid, which Cuban officials denounced as politically motivated manipulation.

    Analysts note the rarity of such state-organized funerals, with comparable ceremonies occurring only three times in the past half-century: for victims of the 1976 Cubana de Aviación bombing, casualties from Angola’s conflict in 1989, and the 1997 memorial for revolutionary Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara.

    The Cuban government has announced plans for a major demonstration at the Anti-Imperialist Tribune facing the U.S. Embassy, with officials anticipating substantial public participation reflecting widespread national sentiment.

  • Dubai: Gold prices slip on profit-taking; 24K continues to trade above Dh550

    Dubai: Gold prices slip on profit-taking; 24K continues to trade above Dh550

    Gold markets in Dubai and worldwide experienced a downward adjustment on Thursday morning as investors capitalized on recent gains, triggering a sell-off that pushed prices lower. The precious metal, which had reached unprecedented levels in previous sessions, faced pressure from reduced safe-haven demand amid easing geopolitical concerns and profit-taking activities.

    According to the latest data from the Dubai Jewellery Group, 24K gold traded at Dh553.0 per gram, representing a decline of nearly Dh2 from previous levels. Other variants followed similar patterns, with 22K gold slipping to Dh512.25 per gram, while 21K, 18K and 14K varieties traded at Dh491, Dh421 and Dh328.25 per gram respectively. In international markets, spot gold registered $4,590 per ounce at 9 am UAE time, reflecting a 0.8 percent decrease.

    Market analysts attribute the recent volatility to multiple factors. Vijay Valecha, Chief Investment Officer at Century Financial, noted that softer-than-anticipated US inflation data has strengthened expectations for two potential interest rate reductions by the US Federal Reserve within the year. Additionally, growing apprehensions regarding the Federal Reserve’s independence, fueled by reports of potential legal action against Chair Jerome Powell, have created uncertainty in rate markets and exerted downward pressure on the US dollar.

    Despite the current correction, underlying market conditions remain supportive for gold. Geopolitical tensions continue to persist, including violent protests in Iran, renewed US pressure on Venezuela, fresh tariff threats associated with Tehran, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These factors collectively contribute to sustained demand for assets that provide insulation from political outcomes.

    From a technical analysis perspective, Century Financial identifies potential resistance for gold near the $4,675 level, based on trendline connections from highs recorded on October 27, November 13, and December 26, 2025. Support levels are anticipated around $4,550, a threshold that has been tested previously.

    The market continues to demonstrate resilience despite the current pullback, with analysts monitoring both technical indicators and fundamental drivers for future price direction.

  • Singer Zhou Shen: Finding myself, reaching the world

    Singer Zhou Shen: Finding myself, reaching the world

    Chinese vocalist Zhou Shen has achieved a monumental milestone in his musical career, becoming the first solo artist from mainland China to headline a concert at Hong Kong’s prestigious Kai Tak Stadium. This historic event marked the culmination of his recent tour, celebrating both his artistic evolution and profound connection with a global audience.

    In an exclusive dialogue with China Daily, Zhou reflected on his extraordinary journey from relative obscurity to international recognition. He expressed deep appreciation for his devoted fanbase, whose support from every corner of the world has transformed his personal aspirations into a worldwide movement. The artist emphasized how this connection has empowered his artistic expression and amplified his voice across cultural boundaries.

    The Kai Tak performance represents not just a personal triumph but a significant moment for Chinese artists expanding their global footprint. Zhou’s distinctive vocal artistry and authentic stage presence have established new benchmarks for mainland performers seeking international recognition. His ability to bridge cultural divides through music demonstrates the universal language of artistic excellence.

    This landmark achievement underscores the growing influence of Chinese entertainers in global music markets and highlights how digital connectivity has revolutionized artist-fan relationships worldwide.

  • American consumers paid higher prices in December for food and rent

    American consumers paid higher prices in December for food and rent

    New economic data reveals American households faced mounting financial pressures in December 2025 as consumer prices climbed steadily, driven primarily by escalating food and housing expenses. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a 2.7 percent year-over-year increase in the Consumer Price Index, underscoring the persistent challenge of inflation that has plagued consumers for half a decade.

    The latest figures from the Labor Department indicate a 0.3 percent monthly rise in CPI, with housing and shelter costs emerging as the predominant contributors to this upward trend. December’s numbers presented a more accurate economic snapshot following November’s artificially suppressed inflation data during the government shutdown.

    Food prices experienced their most significant surge in over three years, with particular sharp increases in beef (17.8 percent year-on-year) and coffee (1.9 percent). Restaurant and food outlet costs climbed 0.7 percent—the largest three-year increase—while overall food prices jumped 3.1 percent annually.

    President Trump’s administration has implemented several measures to combat rising costs, including instructing the Federal Housing Finance Agency to purchase $200 billion in bonds from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to reduce mortgage rates. The administration has also adjusted agricultural tariffs, though experts note that the constantly shifting tariff policy has created uncertainty for businesses and consumers alike.

    Despite financial pressures, holiday retail sales demonstrated remarkable resilience. The National Retail Federation reported 4.1 percent growth from November through December, totaling strong seasonal performance that exceeded expectations.

    The Federal Reserve is anticipated to maintain its benchmark interest rate between 3.50-3.75 percent at its upcoming January meeting, despite unusual circumstances including a Justice Department investigation into Chair Jerome Powell.

    Trade experts warn that consumers may bear increasing burden of tariffs through 2026, with current rates including a 10 percent baseline tariff for many nations and approximately 47 percent tariffs on Chinese imports following the October summit between US and Chinese leaders.