Latest Politics News
Trump's Board of Peace Holds Inaugural Meeting on Gaza Reconstruction
The Board of Peace convened in Washington on February 19, 2026, with an agenda focused on the future of the Gaza Strip beyond the current fragile ceasefire between Hamas and Israel. Trump announced that $5 billion had already been pledged by Board members for Gaza reconstruction and humanitarian aid
. The Board, chaired by Trump and comprising senior administration officials, business associates, and family members, is mandated to handle funding and framework for Gaza's redevelopment until the Palestinian Authority completes its reform program
.
US-Iran Nuclear Talks Conclude with Framework for Future Discussions
A second round of indirect talks between the US and Iran in Geneva ended without a comprehensive deal but yielded what Iran called a framework for future discussions. Iran's top diplomat stated that both countries agreed on guiding principles for future talks expected in the coming weeks
. Iran's president reaffirmed the country would never abandon its peaceful nuclear program
.
Ukraine-Russia Geneva Peace Talks Show Progress on Military Track
Ukraine and Russia completed the second day of US-brokered peace talks in Geneva on February 18, with President Zelenskyy reporting 'progress' on military issues and 'dialogue' on political matters. The two sides have essentially agreed on military monitoring procedures involving the American side, which Zelenskyy called 'a constructive signal'
. However, political negotiations remain difficult, with disagreements over occupied territories, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, and other sensitive issues
.
Russia Launches Air Strikes During Ukraine Peace Negotiations
Just hours before Ukraine-Russia peace talks in Geneva, Russia launched another round of air strikes that injured three people in Odessa and caused severe damage to the power grid. The attacks left tens of thousands without heat and water in the southern port city
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Canada Amends Syria Sanctions to Ease Economic Restrictions
Canada announced amendments to sanctions related to Syria on February 18, lifting broad economic prohibitions linked to the former Assad regime that had been in place since 2011. The changes ease restrictions on imports/exports, investment activities, and financial services
. Canada simultaneously introduced new sanctions criteria to designate individuals involved in human rights violations and activities undermining Syria's peace, imposing sanctions on six individuals including those responsible for sectarian violence in March 2025
.
Hillary Clinton Calls for Public Congressional Testimony in BBC Interview
In an interview with the BBC, Hillary Clinton accused the Trump administration of a cover-up and demanded that her and her husband's testimony before a congressional committee be conducted publicly rather than behind closed doors. Clinton referenced her husband's use of an airplane for charitable work
.
UN Security Council Addresses Libya's Political Deadlock
The UN Security Council met to discuss Libya's political process, which remains at a 'deadlock' with mounting pressures nationwide. The meeting included renewed calls for nationally driven efforts to advance unity, stability, and elections
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Syria Makes Progress on Inclusive Political Transition
UN experts and Security Council members welcomed a comprehensive agreement reached between the Syrian Government and Syrian Democratic Forces two weeks ago. The international community encouraged Syria to continue on the path of inclusive political transition
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UN Appoints Members to Independent Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence
The UN General Assembly appointed 40 members recommended by the Secretary-General to the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence following a US request. The appointment reflects growing international focus on AI governance
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UN Warns of South Sudan's Slide Toward Full-Scale Civil War
Security Council speakers warned that the 2018 South Sudan peace agreement is at serious risk, raising fears that the world's newest country could relapse into full-scale civil war. The warning underscores ongoing instability in the conflict-affected region
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