International
Israel-Hamas
The US and British Navy shot down 21 Houthi missiles and drones launched from Yemen in the Red Sea. Houthi rebels said they were disrupting trade routes in response to Israel's military campaign in Gaza. In response, the US and its allies conducted their fifth missile strike against Houthi military sites. World leaders are trying to contain the Israel-Hamas war from growing into a larger conflict involving Iran-backed militias which include Hamas, Hezbollah (Lebanon), and Houthis.
As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, South Africa brought a genocide case against Israel to the United Nation’s top courts. Hearings have begun.
Ukraine-Russia
Russia has gained advantages in eastern Ukraine, where Russian missiles have killed at least 11 civilians in a recent attack.
Taiwan
Lai Ching-te, a member of Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party, has won the election. “The election has shown the world the commitment of the Taiwanese people to democracy, which I hope China can understand,” Lai told supporters. He must now navigate Taiwan's future relationship with Beijing.
US Politics
On Wednesday, Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley met for the final Republican primary debate before the Iowa Caucuses set to take place next week. Both candidates discussed issues of immigration, cutting taxes, and the federal budget. Major disagreements occurred over the US role in the Ukraine-Russia war. Chris Christie dropped out of the race.
The US Supreme Court is set to review Donald Trump’s appeal case in early February, determining his eligibility on Colorado’s state ballot. The court will also debate whether emergency room doctors are legally allowed to perform abortions in states where access has been eliminated.
On Monday, the Senate returned to the House, continuing debates on the US-Mexico border crisis and aid to war-torn countries.
A lawsuit against the National Rifle Association of America (NRA) by New York Attorney General Letitia James is set to go to trial. James accused the non-profit organization of civil corruption, alleging that leader Wayne LaPierre used funds for personal gains, violating laws for non-profit groups.
The civil fraud trial against Donald Trump concluded. Letitia James is pursuing $370 million in damages and aims to prevent Trump from doing business in the state on the grounds that he had inflated asset values. The judge intends to deliver a decision later this month.
Hunter Biden pleaded not guilty on federal tax charges in California for failing to pay $1.4 million over 4 years. If convicted, he could face up to 17 years in prison.
Climate
Across the US, winter storms covered parts of the Mdiewest and Northeast in snow. However, new studies show that there have been significantly lower snow levels over the past 40 years.
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