Iran Provokes US With Televised Threat Against Donald Trump

According to a report by The Sun (UK) on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, Iran has sparked outrage after state-controlled television aired a disturbing message aimed at former US President Donald Trump, using footage from a past assassination attempt to issue a veiled threat.

The broadcast showed video from the July 2024 shooting attempt on Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, alongside a chilling caption translated as, “This time, the bullet won’t miss.” The message appeared at a time of heightened tensions, as Trump considers possible military action against Iran and continues to voice strong support for anti-government protests inside the country.

The provocative broadcast comes amid more than two weeks of sustained demonstrations against Iran’s ruling clerical establishment. Trump has openly encouraged Iranian protesters, telling them that support was coming and urging them to challenge state institutions, a stance that has further angered Tehran.

Similar threatening slogans have also been seen during pro-regime demonstrations in the Iranian capital. Protesters gathered outside the British Embassy in Tehran holding placards with warnings such as “the arrow doesn’t always miss,” echoing the message shown on state television.

Trump has repeatedly warned the Iranian leadership against harming or executing protesters, promising “strong action” if such acts continue. As tensions between the two countries deepen, Iran’s defence minister stated that the country would respond forcefully to any US attack, vowing full retaliation if threatened.

Human rights organisations report that thousands have been killed and more than 10,000 arrested in clashes between security forces and demonstrators. In response to growing instability, the United States and the United Kingdom have begun withdrawing military personnel from key bases across the Middle East as a precaution.

Reports also suggest that Iranian authorities are accelerating trials and executions of detained protesters, despite international warnings. The situation has raised fears of a broader conflict, with military movements, harsh rhetoric, and human rights concerns converging to create an increasingly volatile crisis.

Man allegedly stoned to death on Kent beach after trying to meet 16-year-old girl

According to a report by Metro (UK) on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, a UK court has heard disturbing details of how a 49-year-old man was allegedly lured to a beach in Kent and killed by three teenagers after attempting to meet someone he believed was a 16-year-old girl.

The defendants — a 16-year-old girl and two boys aged 15 and 16 — are facing trial at Woolwich Crown Court over the death of Alexander Cashford, who died in Leysdown-on-Sea on the Isle of Sheppey on August 10 last year.

Prosecutors told the court that Mr Cashford met the teenagers at an amusement arcade on the seafront, where he gave the girl his phone number on a business card. One of the boys reportedly saved the number on his phone under a derogatory name, after which messages were exchanged over two days. Mr Cashford allegedly believed he was chatting with a girl named “Sienna.”

The court heard that the first message sent to Mr Cashford stated that the girl was 16 years old. He reportedly replied with compliments, asked personal questions, and falsely claimed to be younger than his real age. He also suggested meeting up, mentioned alcohol, and expressed romantic interest. The person posing as “Sienna” then proposed a meeting and asked him to bring alcohol.

On the evening of August 10, Mr Cashford travelled to the seafront to meet the teenage girl. Jurors were told that shortly afterwards, the two boys followed the pair along the promenade. During the encounter, one of the boys allegedly struck Mr Cashford on the back of the head with a bottle.

Witnesses later described seeing Mr Cashford lying motionless while stones were thrown at his head and body. A post-mortem examination revealed severe injuries, including head and facial wounds, extensive bruising, and broken ribs that punctured a lung.

Video evidence shown in court allegedly captures parts of the attack, with the girl heard shouting abuse while filming. Prosecutors also said footage of the assault was later shared with others, accompanied by mocking messages.

The prosecution argued that the incident was not spontaneous but carefully planned, describing it as a coordinated attack in which all three teenagers played active roles. It was further alleged that Mr Cashford was pursued for a considerable distance before the fatal injuries were inflicted.

All three teenagers have denied the charge of murder. The trial is continuing.

Iran Warns of War as Trump Threatens Military Action

According to a report by Daily Mail (UK) on Monday, January 12, 2026, Iran has issued a strong warning that it is ready for war following threats from Donald Trump, who said the United States could strike Iran at unprecedented levels.

The confrontation comes as Iran faces its biggest wave of protests since 2022, sparked by economic hardship and public anger toward the ruling system. Human rights monitors claim close to 500 protesters have been killed, with thousands more arrested during a sweeping security crackdown.

Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One, said the US military was reviewing powerful response options, while cautioning that further bloodshed could force American intervention. Iran’s foreign minister countered that foreign threats only worsen the crisis and accused outside forces of trying to exploit the unrest.

As protests continue despite internet blackouts, the standoff has raised fears of a wider regional conflict involving Israel and US military assets in the Middle East. While there are reports of possible negotiations, the situation remains volatile and unpredictable.

Former MI6 Chief Claims Putin Relies on Lookalikes for Security

According to a report by The Sun (UK) on Sunday, January 11, 2026, ex-MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove has stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin “certainly” makes use of body doubles to protect himself from assassination attempts.

Speaking on intelligence assessments and long-standing rumours, Dearlove said the use of doubles is a standard security tactic for leaders who are considered prime targets. He stressed that Putin’s risk level has grown significantly since the war in Ukraine began.

The former intelligence boss explained that Ukrainian forces have shown they can strike far inside Russia, raising fears within the Kremlin about Putin’s safety during public appearances. As a result, decoys may be used during events where security cannot be fully controlled, especially outdoors.

However, Dearlove clarified that such measures would not apply to face-to-face diplomatic meetings or sensitive negotiations, where impersonation would be too risky and difficult to maintain.

Although Russian authorities deny these claims, reports suggest that presidential security procedures have become much stricter in recent years. Ukrainian intelligence officials have also alleged that multiple trained doubles exist and are deployed selectively to reduce threats to the Russian leader.

Female Officer Charged After Allegedly Performing Oral Sex on Inmate

A 46-year-old former prison officer named Rebecca Pinckard has been accused of misconduct for allegedly having an inappropriate relationship with a prisoner at HMP Highpoint in Suffolk. According to court papers, the relationship happened between April and July 2024, during which she is said to have performed a sexual act on the inmate and also sent him a card.

 Pinckard, who is from Cambridgeshire, appeared before Suffolk Magistrates’ Court, where the judge said the case was too serious for that level and must be handled by the Crown Court. She was granted unconditional bail and will appear at Cambridge Crown Court on December 3 for a further hearing. Reports say she covered her head with a jacket as she left court. 

The Eastern Region Special Operations Unit confirmed it had investigated claims of an improper relationship between a prison officer and a prisoner before her arrest. The case has drawn attention due to the nature of the allegations and the breach of professional conduct involved.

Source: Metro, UK

Prince Andrew to surrender all royal titles, including Duke of York

Prince Andrew is expected to give up all his royal titles, including the Duke of York, following reports that palace officials were “considering all options” about his future. The decision comes after evidence surfaced that King Charles’s brother had lied about his continued contact with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

According to The Telegraph, Andrew agreed to relinquish his titles after coming under pressure from the King. This move marks another major setback in his public life, which has been overshadowed by years of scandal involving Epstein and an alleged link to a Chinese spy.

In January 2022, the late Queen Elizabeth had already removed Andrew’s military titles and royal patronages while he faced a civil sex assault lawsuit brought by Virginia Giuffre. He later reached a multimillion-pound settlement in that case.

Newly revealed emails from February 2011 show Andrew telling Epstein, “we are in this together,” directly contradicting his claim during a 2019 BBC Newsnight interview that he had cut off contact months earlier. During that same interview, Andrew said he did not remember meeting Ms Giuffre and stated he had no regrets about his friendship with Epstein.

Since then, he has been banned from performing royal duties, forbidden from using his HRH title, and has remained largely out of public view. Despite ongoing controversy, Andrew continues to deny all allegations of sexual misconduct.

Fresh scrutiny has arisen following the release of excerpts from Ms Giuffre’s forthcoming autobiography, Nobody’s Girl, written before her death earlier this year. In it, she repeats her claim that she was trafficked to Andrew as a teenager and describes three encounters, including one where she says he thanked her afterward.

Sources within the palace said frustration had grown after The Sun published new revelations about Andrew’s contact with Epstein, prompting officials to conclude it was time to end his royal role completely. They said Andrew had a “small window of opportunity” to step down voluntarily before stronger measures were taken against him.

His downfall has been compared to that of former King Edward VIII, who was forced into exile after his abdication and spent his later years away from the royal family.

Andrew’s troubles began in 1999 when he was introduced to Jeffrey Epstein by Ghislaine Maxwell. Two years later, Virginia Giuffre, then 17, alleged she had been trafficked to London to have sex with him. In 2008, Epstein was convicted of child sex offences. Despite the scandal, Andrew stayed at Epstein’s home in New York in 2010 and resigned as the UK’s trade envoy the following year. His 2019 Newsnight interview was widely condemned, leading him to withdraw from royal duties. In 2022, the Queen stripped him of his remaining titles and roles, and in 2025, leaked messages exposed that he had continued to communicate with Epstein, resulting in his final removal from royal life.

Earlier this year, Andrew also faced allegations of involvement in a Chinese espionage scandal. Documents revealed he had private meetings with Chinese officials, including an alleged spy named Yang Tengbo, raising fears that he had used his royal connections for personal gain and potentially risked national security.

With this latest decision, Prince Andrew’s royal career is effectively over, marking a humiliating end to years of controversy that have damaged both his reputation and the image of the monarchy.

Source: The Sun, UK on 17 October 2025

PM condemns ban on Israeli football fans, calls it unfair and wrong

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has criticised the decision to ban Israeli football fans from attending matches in the UK, saying it is wrong to exclude them because police cannot guarantee their safety from antisemitic mobs. The move stops Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from attending their Europa League match against Aston Villa on November 6 at Villa Park.

Starmer urged Birmingham City Council and West Midlands Police to reverse the decision, insisting that the police’s job is to keep all fans safe, not to prevent them from attending. Downing Street confirmed that the Prime Minister is working to resolve the issue quickly and has vowed to do everything possible to protect Jewish communities.

The ban was introduced over safety concerns after violent clashes in Amsterdam last year, where Maccabi fans were attacked by pro-Palestinian demonstrators during a game against Ajax. West Midlands Police advised Birmingham’s Safety Advisory Group not to allocate seats for away fans, describing the match as high risk.

Posting on X, Starmer said: “This is the wrong decision. We will not tolerate antisemitism on our streets. It is the police’s role to ensure every football fan can enjoy the game without fear.” A Downing Street spokesperson added that the government “will do everything in its power” to protect Jewish people and ensure fairness for all supporters.

UEFA, which oversees the Europa League, has also urged UK authorities to allow Maccabi Tel Aviv fans to attend, saying supporters should be able to follow their team in a safe and welcoming environment.

Freed British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari, a Maccabi fan, called the ban “blatant antisemitism” and said it sent a terrible message about Jews being unwelcome. She added that football should bring people together, not divide them.

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch called the decision a “national disgrace” and challenged the Prime Minister to ensure that Jewish fans can safely attend any football match in Britain. Labour peer Lord Ian Austin also condemned the move, accusing police of giving in to pressure from agitators instead of protecting lawful spectators.

With growing political backlash and pressure from both parties, officials are reviewing the decision. Many critics argue that banning fans due to safety fears only deepens division and undermines Britain’s commitment to equality and freedom from hate.

Source: The Sun, UK 

Trump-Zelenskyy Meeting Marred by Clothing Controversy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's recent meeting with Donald Trump at the White House was marked by tension, particularly over Zelenskyy's attire. According to reports, Trump's team had advised Zelenskyy to wear a suit, but he opted for an all-black outfit instead, which reportedly irritated Trump.

The meeting, which was already expected to be challenging due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, got off to a bad start with Trump commenting, "He is all dressed up today," as he shook Zelenskyy's hand. The tension escalated during the press conference when Brian Glenn, a reporter from Real America's Voice, asked Zelenskyy why he didn't wear a suit, implying that it showed a lack of respect for America.

Zelenskyy responded, "I will wear a costume when this war is finished. Maybe something like yours. Maybe something better. Maybe something cheaper." His response highlighted the significance of his attire, which is a deliberate choice to reflect Ukraine's ongoing war with Russia.

Zelenskyy's outfit, typically consisting of olive green jumpers and combat boots, serves as a reminder that Ukraine is still at war. It also reflects his solidarity with the armed forces and those fighting on the frontline. While he did wear suits before the war, he has stated that he will not return to doing so until the war has ended.

The meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy ultimately ended without an agreement on the deal that Zelenskyy had flown 5,000 miles to discuss. The Ukrainian leader has since arrived in the UK for a summit with European leaders.

It's worth noting that Trump's reaction to Zelenskyy's attire is not an isolated incident. The meeting was marked by tension and disagreements, reflecting the complex and challenging situation in Ukraine. As the conflict continues, Zelenskyy's attire remains a symbol of Ukraine's resilience and determination.

European Leaders Unite to Support Ukraine, But Not Everyone Agrees

As Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived at Downing Street, he was greeted by enthusiastic crowds outside, contrasting sharply with the chaotic atmosphere he faced during his previous day's meeting with Donald Trump. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the Ukrainian President with open arms, both literally and figuratively, emphasizing the unwavering support of the UK for Ukraine. Starmer expressed that the UK stands firmly with Ukraine, extending their backing as long as it takes to achieve lasting peace, with a focus on Ukraine's sovereignty and security.

During this significant visit, a notable development took place in the UK’s financial support for Ukraine. While Zelenskyy met with Starmer, Ukraine's Finance Minister Sergii Marchenko participated in a video conference, finalizing a new loan arrangement. UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves signed off on £2.6 billion in loans intended to aid Ukraine, capitalizing on frozen Russian assets, specifically through measures termed extraordinary revenue acceleration loans. The repayments for these loans will depend on the high returns from these Russian assets, which amount to £236 billion located within Europe, showcasing a strategic financial maneuver amidst the ongoing conflict.

In parallel to these supportive gestures, not all European leaders aligned completely with Ukraine's cause. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, regarded as one of Vladimir Putin's closest allies in Europe, advocated for negotiations with Russia to pursue a ceasefire. He stated that this approach contradicted the draft conclusions set for an upcoming EU leaders' summit, which advocates for no negotiations with Russia without Ukraine's involvement and insists that any ceasefire be part of a comprehensive peace arrangement. Similarly, Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico reiterated his country's refusal to offer military or financial support to Ukraine, demanding an immediate ceasefire and warning that the upcoming summit may not reach any consensus on Ukraine if their requests are disregarded.

The backdrop of these developments is underscored by Zelenskyy's reputation at home. Despite Trump's claims of declining support for Zelenskyy, Ukrainian polling reveals a different story. Recent surveys conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology indicated that around 57% of Ukrainians express trust in their president. Public sentiment favors Zelenskyy for a potential second term, should elections, currently suspended due to martial law, take place.

Furthermore, Zelenskyy is set to meet with UK King Charles during his visit, highlighting the diplomatic outreach and support he is receiving from various high-profile officials in the UK. The ongoing war has placed Ukraine under significant strain, and the dynamics of international support are crucial.

Amidst this camaraderie between Zelenskyy and the UK government, the fallout from his meeting with Trump remains a significant topic. Many international observers, including leaders from NATO, have urged Zelenskyy to mend relations with the US, emphasizing that the United States remains a pivotal ally for Ukraine amid the Russian aggression. Poland's President, for instance, advised Zelenskyy to return to negotiations to maintain American support, while NATO officials characterized his recent interactions in Washington as unfortunate.

GOP Outraged by Biden's Decision to Stop Weapons Delivery to Israel

According to a report from Al Jazeera on May 10, 2024, there is a significant amount of anger among Republicans regarding President Biden's decision to halt the shipment of US weapons to Israel. Republican Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, attempted to downplay the situation by suggesting that Biden may be experiencing a senior moment, implying that he would be surprised if such a policy were actually implemented.

It is worth noting that Congress recently passed a bill approving tens of billions of dollars in funding for weapons and humanitarian aid to Israel. Despite this, a Republican senator went so far as to suggest that Biden should be impeached. However, it is highly unlikely that the decision to withhold military aid from Israel would meet the threshold of high crimes and misdemeanors necessary for impeachment.

Some Democrats have also expressed concerns about this move. However, within the Democratic Party, progressive members have praised Biden's decision, considering it a necessary first step and urging him to take further action. This decision has become a political liability for President Biden in his pursuit of a second term, especially among young Democrats, as evidenced by the reactions on college campuses across the country.

While there is considerable anger among some lawmakers on Capitol Hill, there is limited recourse for them to address the situation. Ultimately, the authority lies with the president, who historically possesses the power to deny the provision of weapons, and Congress has little ability to challenge such a decision.

Israel Ready to Face Gaza War Alone, Netanyahu Declares

According to a report from BBC News on May 10, 2024, Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, has stated that Israel is capable of "standing alone" in the event that the United States halts arms shipments. This statement came in response to warnings from the US that it might suspend arms supplies if Netanyahu ordered a full-scale invasion of Rafah in Gaza.

Netanyahu expressed his determination by saying, "If we need to...we will stand alone. I have said that if necessary we will fight with our fingernails." President Joe Biden had previously indicated that the US would withhold certain arms, including artillery shells, if an invasion of Rafah were to occur. The US had already paused a shipment of bombs due to concerns about civilian casualties.

Netanyahu sought to dismiss the US warnings by citing Israel's past experiences, specifically referencing the War of Independence in 1948. He emphasized that Israel emerged victorious despite facing an arms embargo and lacking weapons, relying instead on the strength of spirit, heroism, and unity among its people.

Israel's Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, echoed Netanyahu's sentiment, stating that Israel cannot be subdued and will remain strong in the face of both enemies and allies. The comments were made as thousands of people fled Rafah amid continuous bombardment, and Israeli tanks amassed near populated areas. The UN expressed concern over the lack of aid reaching the city, with food and fuel running out for the more than one million people seeking shelter there.

The Israeli forces claimed to be conducting targeted raids against remaining Hamas elements in Rafah but did not rule out the possibility of a full-scale invasion. President Biden warned that he would not supply Israel with the munitions for such an invasion, as he believed it would not achieve the goal of defeating Hamas.

The report also mentioned recent airstrikes and casualties in Rafah, as well as fading hopes for a peace deal as both Israeli and Hamas delegations left talks in Cairo. The conflict between Israel and Hamas has been ongoing for seven months, resulting in a significant loss of lives and hostages being taken. Israel reported that 128 hostages remained unaccounted for, with 36 presumed dead.

Israel Notified US in Advance of Planned Strike, No Approval Given

The recent events in Iran have brought significant upheaval to the already volatile Middle East. According to a US official who spoke with CNN, Israel has carried out a military strike inside Iran. This strike has raised concerns about the potential escalation of tensions between the two countries and its broader implications for regional stability. The attack took place near the city of Isfahan, and while Iranian officials have downplayed the incident, the situation remains tense.

Details of the Strike

The US official revealed that Israel notified the United States of its intention to carry out the strike in the coming days. However, the US did not endorse the action. The strike resulted in three explosions near a major military airbase close to Isfahan. Iran's air defense systems were activated in response, and state media reported that air defenses intercepted three drones. There were no reports of a missile attack, and Iran has not yet identified the source of the strike.

Reports indicate that the attack targeted sites associated with Iran's nuclear program. Multiple state-aligned news agencies have claimed that these sites remain secure, suggesting that the attack was limited in scope. Iranian media, in an attempt to downplay the incident, broadcasted calm scenes from Isfahan, showing normalcy in the city.

Escalating Tensions and Reactions

The strike by Israel comes in the wake of Iran's unprecedented direct strike against Israel just days earlier. On that occasion, Iran launched over 300 drones and cruise missiles toward Israel in response to a suspected Israeli strike on an Iranian diplomatic complex in Damascus. These recent events have further heightened tensions in the region.

Iran's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, warned that any further military action by Israel would be met with an immediate and maximum-level response. He emphasized that this message had been communicated to the White House via the Swiss Embassy in Tehran. The situation remains precarious, and the international community is calling for restraint from all parties involved.

US Position and Expectations

Before the Israeli strike, the US had expected that Israel would not target Iran's civilian or nuclear facilities. The senior US official indicated that Israel had communicated its intention to carry out a limited and narrowly focused strike inside Iran. The specific targets were not disclosed but were understood to exclude nuclear and civilian locations.

US President Joe Biden has shown support for Israel, praising its ability to defend itself against Iran's recent attack. However, he has also urged restraint and emphasized the need to de-escalate tensions in the region.

Escalating Conflict: Israel Attacks Iran, Explosions in Isfahan, and Ongoing War in Gaza

Tensions in the Middle East have reached a critical point as Israel reportedly launched a military strike inside Iran. This development marks a dangerous escalation in the ongoing conflict and has the potential to further destabilize the region. Additionally, explosions were reported in Isfahan, while the war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas continues in Gaza. The following report provides a summary of the latest updates from the live coverage.

Israel's Attack on Iran:

According to information obtained by CNN from a US official, Israel carried out a military strike inside Iran. The Israeli military has not commented on the matter, and Iran has not yet identified the source of the attack. An Iranian official stated that air defenses intercepted three drones, and there were no reports of a missile attack. Iranian media reported that sites associated with Iran's nuclear program remained secure, and footage showcased calm scenes in the areas where explosions were reported.

Reaction and Potential Escalation:

A regional intelligence source, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed that direct state-to-state strikes between Israel and Iran are considered to be "over." While Iran is not expected to respond to the recent strikes, the reason for this decision remains unknown. Iranian government officials have downplayed the impact of the attack, seeking to maintain a measured response.

Israel's Capacity for War:

Maha Yahya, director of the Carnegie Middle East Center research foundation, emphasized that Israel would require substantial support from Western allies to engage in a full-scale war in the Middle East. Yahya stated that Israel lacks the capacity for a sustained conflict without external assistance, relying on the United States and other Western powers for military resources. The pressure exerted by Israel's Western allies to exercise restraint likely influenced Israeli officials' decision-making process.

Syrian Consequences:

Southern Syria reportedly experienced "material losses" following an Israeli strike, as confirmed by Syrian state media. The Israeli military declined to comment on reports in foreign media. The extent of the damage and specific targets remain undisclosed.

Assessment of the Situation:

It is too early to definitively determine whether a regional war will emerge from the recent events. Iranian journalist Abas Aslani noted that Iranian officials perceive Israel's attack as an attempt to save face after being targeted by Iran in previous strikes. While the situation does not currently indicate a regional war, escalation remains a possibility. Iranians, regardless of their political affiliations, have predominantly supported their government's actions against Israel due to national security concerns.

UN Watchdog's Response:

The United Nations nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stated that there was no damage to Iran's nuclear sites following the aerial attack in Isfahan province. The IAEA's chief, Rafael Grossi, called for extreme restraint from all parties and emphasized that nuclear facilities should never be targeted in military conflicts.

Israel Launches Intensive Bombardment of Gaza Following Hamas Hostage Threats

In the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, Israel has intensified its bombardment of the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip after the militant group Hamas threatened to execute hostages it abducted during a weekend assault. The situation has prompted Israel to impose a total siege on Gaza, cutting off essential supplies and exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis in the region.

Hamas' unprecedented ground, air, and sea assault, which Israel has compared to the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States, has left Israel reeling. The death toll in Israel has risen to over 900, prompting Israel to respond with a barrage of strikes on Gaza, resulting in a death toll of 687.

The Israeli army announced on Tuesday that it had regained control of the Gaza border after a mass breach by Palestinian gunmen on Saturday. They reported recovering the bodies of approximately 1,500 Hamas militants inside Israel, confirming the scale of the assault. Israeli communities around the border have been evacuated nearly completely.

Gaza City has been subjected to intense bombardment, with explosions and sirens filling the air. Hamas claimed that Israeli air strikes had already killed four of its hostages and threatened to carry out executions themselves. In a televised speech, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu compared Hamas to the Islamic State group, also known as ISIS, and announced plans to deploy "unprecedented force."

Israel has called up 300,000 army reservists for its campaign titled "Swords of Iron." Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that Israel would impose a complete siege on the Gaza Strip, cutting off electricity, food, water, and gas supplies. This move has raised concerns about the worsening humanitarian situation, which United Nations chief Antonio Guterres warned would deteriorate exponentially.

The conflict has also heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Iran expressing support for Hamas, although denying any direct involvement in the military operation. Hamas has called on "resistance fighters" in the West Bank, as well as in Arab and Islamic nations, to join their operation, dubbed "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood."

Taliban police rescue woman held captive in a room for 25 years.

The Taliban Interior Ministry has announced that Taliban police have rescued a woman who was held captive in a dark room in the capital of Afghanistan for a period of 25 years.

According to the ministry, the room where the woman was imprisoned was filled with debris and garbage, as depicted in disturbing images released by the ministry.

During her captivity, she was provided with food through a window.

Ministry spokesman Abdul Matin Qani described the woman's ordeal, stating that she feels unsafe and fearful whenever she encounters other people.

Currently, the woman is receiving medical treatment in a hospital in Kabul, as she has suffered both mental and physical harm.

A doctor reported that she is malnourished and has developed severe anemia.

Medical professionals also observed that her bones were deteriorated and her joints were damaged.

According to the police, the woman endured years of turmoil, including a separation from her first husband, struggles with infertility, her brothers' involvement in criminal activities, and a dispute over inheritance.

In connection with the case, the police have arrested four of her family members, including her brother and nephews.

The police have stated that a comprehensive investigation into the case is currently underway.

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Among the four sons who embarked on a hazardous migration route, only one was able to make it back home safely.

According to a BBC article published on September 3rd, 2023, titled "Four sons set out on a perilous migration route. Only one came home," the account tells the story of Adama and Moussa Sarr, two brothers from Senegal, and their cousins, Pape and Amsoutou. They embarked on a hazardous journey to Europe aboard a traditional Senegalese fishing canoe called a pirogue, accompanied by 101 other passengers. Departing from the coastal village of Fass Boye on July 10th, their destination was the Canary Islands, located around 1,000 miles away in the North Atlantic.

The route from Senegal to the Canary Islands is widely known as one of the most dangerous migration routes in the world. After six days at sea with no sight of land, a dispute arose among the passengers about whether to continue or turn back. Despite the disagreement, the captain opted to push forward, leading to a scarcity of food and water.

After enduring five weeks at sea, a fishing vessel discovered the adrift pirogue off the coast of West Africa. Adama, weakened to the point where he could only stare, witnessed Moussa slipping into the water. Fortunately, the fishing crew spotted Moussa and saved him from drowning. When they approached the pirogue, they found Adama, the other survivors, and the bodies of seven individuals.

Adama was the only one among the four sons who managed to safely return home to Senegal. Although visibly thinner, he was reunited with his family in Fass Boye. This story serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers and difficulties faced by migrants attempting to reach Europe through this treacherous route.

Researchers have identified a roundworm typically found in snakes within the human brain.

Imagine having a live worm in your brain – and not just any worm, but one that came from a snake. That's what happened to a 64-year-old woman in Australia, who is the first person in the world to be infected by a new parasite species.

The parasite is called Ophidascaris robertsi, and it is a type of roundworm that normally lives in the intestines of carpet pythons. Somehow, the woman ingested the worm eggs from a plant she picked near a lake where the snake had defecated. The eggs hatched in her gut and the larvae travelled through her bloodstream to various organs, including her brain.

The woman started feeling sick in January 2021, with symptoms like stomach pain, diarrhea, fever, cough and shortness of breath. She was treated for various infections, but none of them worked. It was only when she had brain surgery that the doctors found the culprit: an eight-centimetre-long worm that was still alive and moving.

The doctors removed the worm and sent it to a laboratory for identification. They also gave the woman anti-parasitic drugs to kill any remaining larvae in her body. She recovered well and was discharged from the hospital.

This case is a rare example of zoonosis, which is when a disease or infection jumps from animals to humans. As we encroach on wildlife habitats and interact more with animals, we may face more risks of catching new and unknown parasites. The researchers who studied this case have published their findings in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases.

Drama as man screams during embalming by mortuary staff #trending

Peter Kigen , from Bureti in Kenya, had collapsed at home .

According to his uncle , Denis Langat, the 32 - year old “ had been

suffering from a stomach ailment which forced us to rush him to

hospital .”

A nurse at Kapkatet Hospital “casually ” checked the patient over ,

says Mr Langat, before declaring him dead .

Mr Kigen was transferred to the hospital ’ s mortuary, and the staff

there promptly set about preparing him for burial .

As part of the embalming process , the blood is removed from the

body through the veins and replaced with formaldehyde - based

chemicals through the arteries .

It appears to have been this procedure that caused the “ dead”

man to regain consciousness and scream in pain .

Mr Kigen ’ s younger brother, Kevin Kipkurui, told The Standard :

“The mortician called me into the morgue and we saw him make

movements .

“We were shocked . We could not understand how they could

move a person who is still alive into the mortuary .”

Mr Kigen , speaking from his hospital bed , is still stunned at his

apparent resurrection : “ I cannot believe what just happened, ” he

said . “ How did they establish that I was dead ?”

While Mr Kigen ’ s family believe that the error was down to

hospital staff , Kapkatet Hospital ’ s medical superintendent Gilbert

Cheruiyot said that they were to blame for the incident: “ His

relatives presumed he was dead and did not even wait for

certification of death , ” he said .

“They moved him to the mortuary , on their own .”

He added : “ They asked Kigen ’ s relatives to give them some time

but they accused the clinicians of taking too much time and

decided to take him to the mortuary. "

“It was while the mortician was getting ready to embalm his body

that she noticed some signs of life. ”

Dr Cheruiyot said it took three hours to completely resuscitate the

patient , and that Mr Kigen was expected to be discharged in “a

few days.”

He concluded : “ I advise those bringing their loved ones to the

hospital to follow the laid down regulations .”

“Before a body is moved the mortuary, it has to be certified by a

clinician . In Kigen ’ s case , we can only say he was lucky .”

Source: Vanguardngr.com

Diego Maradona dies of heart attack at 60 #diegomaradona

Argentine football legend Diego Maradona has passed

away at the age of 60 after suffering a heart attack .

The Gimnasia coach had been hospitalised at the

start of November , days after celebrating the

landmark birthday , after complaining of low spirits

and fatigue .

Tests at the La Plata clinic revealed a blood clot on

the brain, which doctors later revealed was operated

on successfully .

Maradona was subsequently discharged from hospital

as an outpatient to continue his convalescence,

which he carried out in his dwelling in a private

neighbourhood near Tigre, northern Buenos Aires .

But on Wednesday morning he suffered cardiac

arrest , and paramedics at the scene failed to revive

him .

Maradona began his professional career with

Argentinos Juniors at the age of 16 and went on to be

considered one of the greatest players ever to step

onto a football field .

The diminutive left- footed forward went on to

represent Boca Juniors , Barcelona , Napoli, Sevilla and

Newell ’ s Old Boys as a player, and the likes of Racing

Club , Dorados, Gimnasia and the Argentina national

team later as a coach .

Source: punching.com

End SARS : Two nabbed for allegedly eating police officers in Ibadan #sars

The Oyo State Police Command in Nigerian has arrested suspects allegedly

linked with the roasting and eating of the flesh of police officers

burnt in Ibadan during End SARS protest .

Police Spokesman at the Oyo State Command , SP Olugbenga

Fadeyi , made this known in Ibadan in an interview with the News

Agency of Nigeria (NAN ).

Fadeyi added that the suspects , a 34 - year - old expectant mother

and a 43 - year - old man have been transferred to the Force

Intelligence Bureau at the Force Headquarters in Abuja for further

investigation .

The 34 - year - old woman was alleged to have eaten some body

parts of one of the police victims , an allegation which she denied.

According to her , though it was true that she was at the scene ,

she was only given the body parts to keep by the second suspect,

the 43 - year - old man .

The 43 - year - old suspect did not also deny being at the scene of

the incident with other hoodlums , but disclosed that it was the

woman who voluntarily took the body parts and only asked him

for a towel or handkerchief to wrap them in .

The deceased policemen were deployed to contain the End SARS

protest in October, which was hijacked by hoodlums, when they

met their deaths , NAN reports .

Source: Vanguardngr.com