Latest Breaking News
Iran’s nationwide anti-government protests spread to over 45 cities
Iran is experiencing one of its most significant unrests in years, with protests driven by economic hardship and anger at the ruling establishment spreading to more than **45 cities**. Security forces’ crackdown has left **over 40 people dead** and more than **2,200 arrested**, according to reports, as demonstrators call for economic reforms and the removal of the current regime.
Trump warns protest-hit Iran is in “big trouble” and threatens military strike
US President **Donald Trump** said Iran is in “**big trouble**” amid the ongoing mass protests and again warned that he could order **military strikes** against the country. The remarks escalate tensions as Washington criticizes Tehran’s response to demonstrators and weighs its options while unrest continues nationwide.
Ayatollah Khamenei rebukes Trump as Iran protests intensify
Iran’s Supreme Leader **Ayatollah Ali Khamenei** issued a stern message to the United States, accusing Trump of being at the “**peak of hubris**” as protests sweep the country. Khamenei drew historical parallels to warn Washington against interference, even as demonstrators demand economic relief and political change inside Iran.
US captures Nicolás Maduro, triggering leadership change in Venezuela
On **January 3**, the United States launched airstrikes across northern Venezuela and captured President **Nicolás Maduro** and First Lady **Cilia Flores**, in a dramatic escalation of its long-running confrontation with Caracas. Following Maduro’s removal, **Delcy Rodríguez** was sworn in as **acting president** on January 5, ushering in a volatile transition period.
Trump says he canceled new Venezuela strikes after prisoner releases
President Trump stated that he **called off a second wave of attacks** on Venezuela after reaching cooperation with the new leadership in Caracas. The shift came as the interim authorities began releasing a “**significant number**” of foreign and political prisoners days after Washington forcibly removed Maduro from power.
US seizes ‘shadow fleet’ tankers under oil blockade in Operation Southern Spear
The United States seized **two shadow fleet tankers**, including one sailing under a Russian flag, as part of its oil blockade in **Operation Southern Spear**. The move aims to clamp down on clandestine shipments that Washington says are used to evade sanctions and undermine its energy restrictions.
Russia launches hypersonic missile strike on Ukraine
Russian forces have launched a **hypersonic missile** against targets in **Ukraine**, according to breaking coverage from Geo News. The strike underscores the continued intensity and technological escalation of the Russia–Ukraine conflict, raising fresh concerns about regional security and civilian safety.
Bulgaria adopts the euro and joins the eurozone
As of **January 1**, **Bulgaria** has officially adopted the **euro**, becoming the **21st member** of the eurozone. The move further integrates Bulgaria into the European Union’s monetary framework, with implications for its inflation, interest rates, and financial stability.
Cyprus assumes presidency of the Council of the European Union
Also on **January 1**, **Cyprus** began its term as **President of the Council of the European Union**, rotating into the role that shapes EU legislative priorities and political agendas. The Cypriot presidency will oversee Council meetings and negotiations during a period of heightened geopolitical and economic challenges for the bloc.
US moves to exit the World Health Organization later this month
The United States is scheduled to **officially leave the World Health Organization** on **January 22, 2026**, following earlier notifications and disputes. The withdrawal raises concerns about global health coordination, funding, and US influence in managing pandemics and international health crises.
Multiple key elections set to reshape politics in Africa, Europe, and Asia
Several major elections are imminent, including the **Benin parliamentary election** on January 11, **Uganda’s general election** on January 15, and **Portugal’s presidential election** on January 18. Later in the month, Myanmar is due to hold its 2025–26 general election and Vietnam will convene the **14th National Congress of the Communist Party**, events likely to affect domestic power balances and regional dynamics.