The U.S. must maintain troops in Syria to prevent the resurgence of ISIS following Bashar al-Assad’s ouster, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said. He emphasized securing detention camps holding thousands of ISIS fighters, including 2,000 deemed highly dangerous. U.S. forces, currently numbering around 2,000, work with the Kurdish-led SDF against ISIS, despite Turkey’s opposition to the SDF’s PKK ties. Austin highlighted the risk of ISIS fighters … Continue reading US troops need to stay in Syria to counter the Islamic State group, Austin says

Iran unveiled an underground missile storage facility and announced the development of “new special missiles,” according to IRGC-affiliated media. The facility, described as a “dormant volcano,” reportedly supported operations against Israel earlier this year. Iran plans to reveal additional “missile and drone cities” during upcoming military drills. Meanwhile, Iranian volunteer forces held a large-scale exercise in Tehran. Despite regional setbacks, Iranian leaders assert their deterrence … Continue reading Iran unveils underground storage facility, claims development of ‘new special missiles’

A stampede near India’s Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh killed six and injured 35 as thousands gathered for free visit passes during an auspicious period. The rush occurred when a gate opened, leading to a surge in the crowd. Authorities are investigating the cause, and the temple operator apologized, promising accountability. Andhra Pradesh’s Chief Minister visited the site, while the opposition blamed the … Continue reading Six dead in Indian temple stampede as free passes draw crowd of thousands

Israel launched airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, targeting ports and a power plant used for military purposes, following continued drone and missile attacks by the Iran-backed group. Coordinated with the US, over 20 Israeli aircraft dropped 50 munitions on key locations, including the Hodeidah and Ras Isa ports. Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz warned Houthi leaders of further consequences if aggression continues, … Continue reading 20 Israeli jets attack two ports and a power plant used by Houthis in Yemen

Israeli strikes in Gaza have killed over 600 people in early 2025, with total deaths surpassing 46,000 since the war began on October 7, 2023, following Hamas’ deadly attack on Israel. A Lancet study suggests Gaza’s death toll may be underreported by up to 40%, possibly exceeding 64,000 by mid-2024. Israel blames Hamas for civilian deaths, citing their use of human shields. Negotiations for a … Continue reading Gaza deaths top 46,000 as one study suggests it could be much higher

At least 19 people were killed in Chad after armed fighters attempted to storm the presidential complex in N’Djamena. Security forces killed 18 of the 24 attackers, and one soldier died in the clashes. Chad’s government described the situation as under control, dismissing claims the attackers were rebels and suggesting they were likely intoxicated. The incident occurred during a visit by China’s Foreign Minister Wang … Continue reading Chad say military foiled armed assault on presidential complex, 19 killed

Iran’s military is conducting extensive drills, believed to prepare for potential U.S. or Israeli attacks on its nuclear facilities. The exercises, involving air, ground, and sea forces, showcase new weapons like the Dezful missile system and simulate a strike on the Natanz nuclear site. The drills also test the Basij paramilitary forces for domestic security readiness amid rising regional tensions. Iranian analysts see the drills … Continue reading Iran puts on show of force with war games ahead of Trump’s second term

A 23-year-old Melbourne medical student, Hadi Nazari, missing for two weeks in Australia’s Kosciuszko National Park, has been found alive. Nazari, who got separated from his group on Dec. 26, survived on two muesli bars, berries, and creek water. He approached hikers for help after trekking over six miles of rugged terrain. Rescuers praised his resilience, noting he was in good spirits and needed only … Continue reading Hiker found after surviving for 2 weeks in Australian mountain range

NATO will deploy 10 ships to protect critical underwater infrastructure in the Baltic Sea by week’s end, guarding energy and data cables until April to prevent sabotage. This move follows recent disruptions, including damaged power and telecommunications cables between Finland, Estonia, Sweden, and Germany. Finland is investigating Russia-linked oil tanker Eagle S for suspected anchor damage to a power cable. Estonia launched its own naval … Continue reading NATO sends fleet to guard Baltic Sea cables