Top World News Headlines for January 23, 2026
Middle East Developments
- Trump Launches "Board of Peace" Amid Controversy: President Trump announced the formation of a "Board of Peace" aimed at resolving global conflicts, starting with the Middle East. The initiative, which includes a broad mandate potentially rivaling the UN, requires a $1 billion contribution for permanent seats and has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin, prompting skepticism from European leaders. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated Britain will not join yet due to concerns over Putin's involvement. The board's charter omits direct references to Gaza, but Jared Kushner outlined plans to transform the region into a seaside resort with high-rises, beginning in Rafah. Palestinians fear forcible displacement, possibly to Somaliland, following meetings between Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Somaliland's leader. Israel has refused entry to a U.S.-backed Palestinian technocratic committee meant to administer Gaza, delaying operations, while the Rafah crossing with Egypt is set to reopen next week in both directions as part of the October ceasefire. Ongoing violence included Israeli tank shelling killing four Palestinians, and a Palestinian baby dying from hypothermia in Gaza's tent camps, marking the ninth such death this winter. Israel also razed UNRWA's East Jerusalem headquarters, planning 1,400 housing units on the site.
- US Deploys Carrier Group to Warn Iran: Trump ordered the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, including three destroyers, to the Middle East to deter Iran. This follows escalating tensions, with Trump stating the U.S. has an "armada" headed toward the region. In Iran, anti-government protests have led to at least 650 deaths amid a security crackdown, with eyewitnesses reporting widespread violence across 67 cities.
Ukraine-Russia Conflict
- First Trilateral Talks Begin: U.S., Ukrainian, and Russian negotiators started meetings in Abu Dhabi, the first such discussions since Russia's 2022 invasion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed hope for progress after meeting Trump in Davos, while Putin met Trump's envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Moscow. The Kremlin emphasized that any settlement hinges on territorial issues. France seized a Russian oil tanker, the Grinch, in a sanctions enforcement action.
Global Diplomacy and Security
- US Withdraws from WHO: The United States formally exited the World Health Organization, owing over $130 million. Public health experts, including former CDC Director Dr. Thomas Frieden, called it a "grave error" that undermines global cooperation.
- Greenland Deal Progress: Trump claimed a framework agreement with Denmark on Greenland, stating details would emerge in two weeks. Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen noted unclear terms and "red lines." EU leaders held an emergency summit in Brussels to address related transatlantic tensions.
- Venezuela and Cuba Interventions: Following U.S. strikes and the abduction of President Nicolás Maduro, who is set to appear in a New York court on drug charges, Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified the U.S. is not at war with Venezuela but retains "levers of leverage." The Trump administration is reportedly seeking Cuban insiders to topple its government.
- Other Notable Events: Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi dissolved parliament for a snap election on February 8. The U.S. warned Haiti's transitional council against destabilizing actions. In the Philippines, journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio was sentenced to 12-18 years on terrorism charges, criticized as retaliation for her reporting. Syrian forces took over an ISIL-linked prison. Mandela family belongings are to be sold after a court ruling. Scientists discovered the oldest cave art in Indonesia, dating back further than previously known.
Environment and Global Issues
- Record Ocean Heat in 2025: The world's oceans reached unprecedented temperatures last year, causing significant economic and social impacts.
- UN Warnings: The UN deputy chief highlighted "dangerous nostalgia" as a threat to multilateralism during a speech to Danish MPs.
Major headlines on January 23, 2026
Major headlines on January 23, 2026, were dominated by the conclusion of the World Economic Forum in Davos, high-stakes diplomacy regarding Gaza and the Arctic, and significant political shifts in Asia.
🌍 Top Global News
Davos 2026 & "Board of Peace"
The World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting in Switzerland concluded with a focus on U.S. President Donald Trump's new international initiatives.
- Gaza Ceasefire: Trump unveiled the "Board of Peace" for the Gaza Strip, a body intended to oversee the ceasefire and reconstruction efforts. While several nations joined the charter, others—including Canada—were notably excluded or revoked from the list following diplomatic friction.
- Greenland Diplomacy: Trump clarified that the U.S. is not seeking to seize Greenland by force, but is negotiating a deal for "broad access" to the territory as part of a new Arctic security framework.
Climate & Environment
- High Seas Treaty: A landmark UN treaty to protect biodiversity in international waters officially entered into force. It covers two-thirds of the world's oceans, though the U.S. administration simultaneously fast-tracked rules for deep-sea mining without environmental oversight.
- Renewable Energy: The EU reported a major milestone, as wind and solar power generation officially surpassed fossil fuels for the first time in the previous year (2025).
🏛️ Politics & Conflict
- Vietnam: In a major leadership consolidation, Tô Lâm was re-elected as General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam during the 14th National Congress.
- Japan: The House of Representatives was dissolved on the first day of its plenary session, signaling an upcoming general election.
- Uganda: Protests erupted following the disputed general election; reports indicate at least 30 people were killed and 2,000 arrested in clashes between the opposition and security forces.
- Iran: The UN Human Rights Council received "disturbing details" regarding continued state-led crackdowns and the potential execution of demonstrators following mass protests.
🇮🇳 India Highlights
- Tragedy in J&K: Ten Indian Army personnel were killed and several injured when their vehicle fell into a gorge in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir.
- Economic Tension: The Indian Rupee hit a record low of 91.70 against the US Dollar, driven by global trade uncertainty and foreign investor outflows.
- Infrastructure: Prime Minister Modi visited Kerala to flag off several new rail services, including three Amrit Bharat Express trains.
⛈️ Disasters & Accidents
- Mozambique Floods: The death toll from catastrophic flooding in Mozambique rose to over 112, with nearly 600,000 people displaced or affected.
- Maritime Accident: A Singapore-flagged cargo ship capsized in the South China Sea; 17 crew members were rescued by the China Coast Guard, while two were confirmed dead and two remain missing.
Major world news highlights from January 23, 2026:
🌍 Key Global Events
- Pakistan Suicide Bombing: A suicide attack at a wedding in Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa killed 7 people and injured 25 others, intensifying concerns about insurgent violence in the region.
- Indonesia Plane Crash Recovery: Search teams in South Sulawesi recovered the remaining bodies from the ATR 42-500 crash that occurred on January 17, involving a Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries aircraft.
- Avalanche & Snowstorm Casualties: Natural disasters struck South Asia—9 killed in an avalanche in Pakistan’s Chitral District and 11 killed in a snowstorm in Afghanistan.
- Cargo Ship Capsizes: A Singapore-flagged cargo ship with 21 Filipino crew members capsized in the South China Sea, leaving 2 dead and 2 missing.
🇺🇸 United States
- Minnesota Economic Blackout: Hundreds of businesses closed in protest against ICE immigration crackdowns, with organizers urging people not to work, shop, or attend school for the day.
- Civil Rights Arrests: Prominent activist Nekima Levy Armstrong and two others were arrested for peacefully protesting inside a St. Paul church where a top ICE official serves as pastor.
🌐 Diplomacy & Politics
- World Economic Forum, Davos: U.S. President Donald Trump launched the “Board of Peace”, an international body aimed at promoting global peace initiatives.
📸 Cultural & Social Highlights
- India Republic Day Preparations: Operation Sindoor-themed tableaux were showcased in New Delhi ahead of Republic Day.
- Ram Mandir Anniversary: Ceremonies marked the second anniversary of the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Diwas in West Bengal.
- Tourism Promotion: Traditional Mayilattam folk dance performances were held in Bengaluru to promote Kerala tourism.
✅ Summary: January 23, 2026 was marked by violent insurgent attacks in Pakistan, natural disasters in South Asia, and maritime tragedy in the South China Sea. On the political front, Donald Trump’s peace initiative at Davos and immigration protests in Minnesota drew global attention. Meanwhile, India prepared for Republic Day with cultural showcases and religious commemorations.
Recent NATO Updates (January 2026)
While there is no ongoing NATO Summit as of January 24, 2026, several key developments have occurred in the alliance this month, including high-level meetings and discussions on security priorities. The next full NATO Summit is scheduled for July 2026 in Ankara, Türkiye, where leaders are expected to address ongoing commitments to defense spending, Arctic security, and support for Ukraine. Here's a breakdown of the latest updates:
NATO Military Committee Meeting in Brussels (January 21-22, 2026)
- The 194th session of the NATO Military Committee in Chiefs of Defence took place at NATO Headquarters in Brussels. Chaired by Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, the meeting involved the 32 Allied Chiefs of Defence and NATO's two Strategic Commanders (General Grynkewich and Admiral Vandier).
- Discussions focused on addressing global security challenges, including assessments of NATO's readiness, deterrence, and defense capabilities. Supreme Allied Commander Europe provided insights on operational readiness, while Supreme Allied Commander Transformation discussed accelerating key capabilities like AI and drones.
- NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte delivered a video message emphasizing the alliance's strengthened position following the 2025 Summit in The Hague and the priority of increasing defense investments.
Davos Discussions and U.S.-NATO Relations
- At the World Economic Forum in Davos (January 20-22, 2026), Secretary General Rutte participated in panels on transatlantic security, urging European allies to boost defense spending and industrial production in areas like AI and drones.
- Rutte met with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss Arctic security, including a framework deal on Greenland that grants the U.S. "total and permanent access" under an updated 1951 agreement. This follows Trump's suspension of threatened tariffs on European nations opposing U.S. ambitions in the region. Trump claimed the deal forms the basis for future cooperation, with details to be worked out by NATO commanders potentially by early 2026.
- Reactions: Swedish Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch noted that NATO is "not out of the woods" despite the tariff reversal, indicating lingering tensions. Finnish President Alexander Stubb expressed hope for an Arctic security plan by the July Ankara Summit.
U.S. Withdrawal from NATO Structures
- The Pentagon announced the initial withdrawal of about 200 U.S. personnel from specific NATO structures, amid tensions over Greenland and a push to redirect U.S. resources to other regions like the Indo-Pacific or the southern border. This follows commitments at the 2025 Hague Summit for European allies to increase military spending to 5% of GDP, up from 2%.
Upcoming Events
- On January 26, 2026, Secretary General Rutte will address the European Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) and Committee on Security and Defence (SEDE) in Brussels, focusing on shared security issues. The event will be streamed live.
- Earlier in January (January 13), Rutte delivered a keynote at the Renew Europe Global Europe Forum, reiterating priorities for deterrence, defense, and preparations for the Ankara Summit.
These developments highlight ongoing efforts to strengthen NATO amid geopolitical challenges, including Russia, China, and Arctic threats.
Overview of the Arctic Security Deal
The "Arctic Security Deal" refers to a framework agreement announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on January 21, 2026, following his meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. This deal aims to enhance U.S. and NATO presence in Greenland and the broader Arctic region, primarily to counter threats from Russia and China, while updating the 1951 Defense of Greenland agreement between the U.S. and Denmark. It falls short of Trump's earlier ambitions for a full U.S. purchase or annexation of Greenland, focusing instead on military access, security cooperation, and resource management. Trump described it as providing the U.S. with "total and permanent access" to Greenland without time limits, calling it an "ultimate long-term deal" that is "forever."
Background and Lead-Up
The framework emerged amid escalating tensions in early January 2026. Trump initially threatened 10% tariffs (rising to 25%) on Denmark and several European NATO allies (including the UK, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden) starting February 1, unless a deal for Greenland's "complete and total purchase" was reached. He emphasized Greenland's strategic importance for U.S. national security, citing its location, rare earth minerals, and role in countering Arctic influences from adversaries. Trump initially refused to rule out military force but explicitly did so during his Davos speech on January 21, stating, "I don’t want to use force. I won’t use force."
The tariffs were withdrawn immediately after the framework announcement, following European solidarity against the threats and concerns from U.S. lawmakers and markets. Negotiations involved delegations from the U.S., Denmark, Greenland, and NATO, building on pre-existing commitments under the 1951 agreement, which already allows U.S. military operations in designated Greenland defense areas.
Key Components of the Framework
Details are still emerging, as the agreement is a preliminary "framework" for future negotiations, with full terms expected to be finalized in 2026—potentially as early as the first quarter. Here's a breakdown based on statements from officials and reports:
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Military Access and Bases | Updates the 1951 agreement to grant the U.S. "total and permanent access" to parts of Greenland, including stationing additional U.S. forces at existing bases (e.g., Thule Air Base). Discussions include potential new U.S. sovereign bases in small pockets of Greenlandic territory, though Denmark opposes full sovereignty transfers. No end date or cost to the U.S. is specified. |
| NATO and Allied Commitments | Requires NATO allies to increase Arctic security efforts, including higher defense spending (potentially beyond the 2% GDP target), new partnerships like an "Arctic Sentry" initiative, and enhanced presence via drones, surveillance aircraft, and exercises. Denmark may purchase more U.S.-made F-35 jets and P-8 aircraft. This aims to bolster collective defense against Russian and Chinese activities. |
| Missile Defense Integration | Ties into Trump's proposed "Golden Dome" missile defense system, with potential cooperation on Arctic-based components to enhance global security. |
| Resource and Mineral Management | Focuses on Greenland's rare earth minerals and critical resources. Proposals include blocking Russia and China from mining operations, joint U.S.-European development, and renewing expiring memorandums for surveys and investments (e.g., potential U.S. loans for mining projects like Tanbreez). Mineral resources were not directly discussed in the initial Rutte-Trump meeting, per NATO. |
Reactions and Implications
- U.S. Perspective: Trump hailed it as a "fantastic" win for U.S. security, emphasizing no-cost benefits and redirecting focus from full acquisition. Experts note it strengthens U.S. Arctic posture without straining alliances further.
- Denmark and Greenland: Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen expressed caution, noting "red lines" on sovereignty. Denmark views it as a reemphasis of existing treaties but highlights damage to transatlantic relations from the threats.
- NATO and Europe: Rutte called the meeting "very productive" and stressed rapid implementation of Arctic enhancements. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper suggested potential for new partnerships, while some allies remain wary of ongoing tensions.
- Broader Geopolitics: The deal is seen as a step to counter Russian military buildup and Chinese economic inroads in the Arctic, potentially including expanded drone surveillance and joint exercises.
Next Steps
Negotiations will continue among the U.S., Denmark, Greenland, and NATO, with a possible full agreement by early 2026. The upcoming NATO Summit in Ankara in July 2026 may address Arctic security plans, including this framework.
Overview of Rare Earth Minerals in the Arctic
Rare earth minerals (REMs), also known as rare earth elements (REEs), are a group of 17 chemically similar elements crucial for high-tech applications, including electronics, renewable energy technologies (e.g., wind turbines, solar panels, electric vehicles), defense systems, and AI. The Arctic region holds significant untapped deposits due to its geology, but extraction is challenged by harsh climates, environmental sensitivities, and geopolitical tensions. As global demand surges for the green energy transition, the Arctic—particularly Greenland—has become a focal point for competition among powers like the US, China, Russia, and Europe. China currently dominates global REM processing (around 90%), prompting Western efforts to diversify supplies.
Major Deposits and Locations
The Arctic's REM potential is vast but underexplored, with deposits scattered across Greenland, Russia, Canada, Sweden, Norway, and Alaska. Greenland alone ranks eighth globally with 1.5 million tons of proven reserves, potentially holding up to 36 million tons overall, making it a key undeveloped source. No commercial REM mining has occurred in Greenland yet, due to environmental bans (e.g., on uranium, often co-located with REMs) and infrastructure gaps. Russia leads Arctic production, with significant nickel and palladium alongside REMs. Climate change is exposing more resources as ice melts.
Here's a summary of key Arctic REM deposits:
| Location | Key Deposits/Projects | Reserves/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Greenland | Kvanefjeld (uranium-associated REMs), Tanbreez (heavy REMs like eudialyte, gallium, zirconium, niobium) | 1.5M tons proven; among world's largest. Stalled by 2021 uranium ban and environmental opposition. Chinese firm Shenghe Resources holds stakes in Kvanefjeld. |
| Russia | Norilsk (nickel, palladium with REMs), various Siberian sites | Major producer; environmental issues include river pollution and Indigenous land impacts. |
| Canada | Nechalacho (Northwest Territories), Raglan (Quebec, nickel with REMs) | Indigenous partnerships (e.g., Yellowknives Dene First Nations own 51% of Nechalacho). Focus on sustainable mining. |
| Sweden/Norway | Kiruna (iron with REMs), Fen (Norway, REEs) | Europe's largest REM deposits; Kiruna mine operational since 1898. |
| Alaska (US) | Red Dog (zinc-lead with REMs) | Limited REM focus; geopolitical push for more exploration. |
Geopolitical Implications
The Arctic's REMs are intertwined with security and supply chain concerns. US President Trump's recent push for Greenland access emphasizes "total and permanent" military and resource rights to counter China and Russia, tying into NATO's Arctic strategy and missile defense. China's "Polar Silk Road" seeks Arctic investments, but projects face blocks over security fears. Recent X discussions highlight this: Users note Greenland's REMs could supply the world for 115 years but risk livelihoods; stocks like \$CRML (Tanbreez project) surged 10% amid US-Greenland talks; and ties to broader US-Russia dynamics in Ukraine's REM-rich Donbas. The US has offered \$120M loans for Tanbreez, aiming to secure supplies without Chinese dominance.
Environmental and Social Impacts
Mining in the Arctic risks land degradation, water pollution, biodiversity loss, and greenhouse gas emissions. Indigenous communities, like in Canada's Northwest Territories or Russia's Sakha Republic, face threats to traditional lands and reindeer herding. Radioactive waste from uranium-linked sites adds challenges. Sustainable approaches, like Indigenous ownership models, are emerging, but costs and timelines (often decades) hinder progress. Subsea mining (e.g., Norway) could exacerbate deep-sea ecosystem damage.
Current Projects and Challenges
- Tanbreez (Greenland): US-backed with $120M loans; pilot plant construction approved, operations by May 2026. Four offtake agreements secured for 100% production.
- Kvanefjeld (Greenland): World's largest undeveloped REM deposit; stalled by uranium ban.
- Nechalacho (Canada): Indigenous-led; operational with focus on heavy REMs.
- Challenges: High costs, 10-20 year timelines, geopolitical risks, and opposition from locals fearing livelihood destruction. The Arctic is unlikely to dominate global supply soon, emphasizing the need for technological innovation over rushed extraction.
100 Questions and Answers Regarding the Global Events of January 23, 2026
Board of Peace & Davos 2026
- Who launched the "Board of Peace"?
President Trump launched the initiative.
- Where was the Board of Peace announced?
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland,.
- What is the primary goal of the Board of Peace?
It aims to resolve global conflicts, starting with the Middle East.
- How much does a permanent seat on the Board cost?
A $1 billion contribution is required.
- Which controversial leader was invited to the Board?
Russian President Vladimir Putin.
- What was the UK's stance on joining the Board?
Britain will not join yet due to concerns over Putin’s involvement.
- Who is the UK Foreign Secretary mentioned?
- What does the Board’s charter omit?
It omits direct references to Gaza.
- Which country was excluded from the Board's charter after diplomatic friction?
Canada.
- Is the Board of Peace intended to rival any existing organization?
Yes, it has a mandate potentially rivaling the United Nations.
Gaza & Middle East Conflict
- Who outlined plans to turn Gaza into a seaside resort?
Jared Kushner.
- Where in Gaza is the proposed resort development starting?
In Rafah.
- Where do Palestinians fear they might be forcibly displaced to?
- Which Israeli leader met with Somaliland's leader?
President Isaac Herzog.
- What did Israel refuse to allow into Gaza?
A U.S.-backed Palestinian technocratic committee.
- When is the Rafah crossing set to reopen?
Next week, in both directions.
- How many Palestinians were killed by recent Israeli tank shelling?
Four Palestinians.
- What caused the death of a Palestinian baby in a tent camp?
Hypothermia.
- How many infants have died from hypothermia in Gaza this winter?
Nine.
- What happened to the UNRWA East Jerusalem headquarters?
Israel razed it.
- What is planned for the site of the former UNRWA headquarters?
1,400 housing units.
Iran & Regional Security
- What carrier group did Trump deploy to the Middle East?
- How many destroyers are part of this carrier group?
Three.
- Why was the carrier group deployed?
To warn and deter Iran.
- How many deaths have occurred in recent Iran protests?
At least 650 deaths.
- How many Iranian cities have reported widespread violence?
67 cities.
- What did the UN Human Rights Council receive regarding Iran?
Disturbing details on crackdowns and potential executions.
Ukraine-Russia Conflict
- Where did the first trilateral talks between the US, Ukraine, and Russia begin?
Abu Dhabi.
- When was the last time these parties held such talks?
This is the first time since the 2022 invasion.
- Who did President Zelensky meet in Davos to discuss progress?
President Trump.
- Which Trump envoys met Putin in Moscow?
Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
- What does the Kremlin say is necessary for a settlement?
Resolving territorial issues.
- What is the name of the Russian oil tanker seized by France?
- Why did France seize "The Grinch"?
To enforce sanctions.
US Foreign Policy & Diplomacy
- What organization did the US formally exit on Jan 23, 2026?
The World Health Organization (WHO).
- How much debt did the US leave the WHO with?
Over $130 million.
- Who is the former CDC Director that criticized the WHO exit?
- Which territory did Trump claim to have a framework agreement for?
- Which country did Trump negotiate with regarding Greenland?
Denmark.
- Who is the Prime Minister of Greenland?
Jens-Frederik Nielsen.
- What is the US seeking in Greenland?
Broad access for a new Arctic security framework.
- Why did EU leaders hold an emergency summit in Brussels?
To address transatlantic tensions over Greenland.
- What happened to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro?
He was abducted and set to appear in a New York court.
- What are the charges against Maduro?
Drug charges.
- Who is the US Secretary of State?
Marco Rubio.
- What is the US's goal regarding Cuba?
Seeking insiders to topple the government.
- What warning did the US give Haiti’s transitional council?
To avoid destabilizing actions.
Climate & Environment
- What record did the world's oceans set in 2025?
Record-high heat/unprecedented temperatures.
- What landmark UN treaty recently entered into force?
The High Seas Treaty.
- What percentage of the world's oceans does the High Seas Treaty cover?
Two-thirds.
- What did the US fast-track regarding the ocean floor?
Rules for deep-sea mining without environmental oversight.
- What milestone did the EU reach in renewable energy?
Wind and solar power surpassed fossil fuels for the first time.
- When did wind and solar power surpass fossil fuels in the EU?
In 2025.
- What did the UN deputy chief warn against in a speech?
"Dangerous nostalgia" as a threat to multilateralism.
Asia Politics & Leadership
- Who was re-elected as General Secretary in Vietnam?
Tô Lâm.
- During which event was Tô Lâm re-elected?
The 14th National Congress of the Communist Party.
- Who is the Prime Minister of Japan?
Sanae Takaichi.
- Why did Takaichi dissolve the Japanese parliament?
For a snap election.
- When is the Japanese general election scheduled?
February 8.
- What happened to journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio?
She was sentenced to 12-18 years in prison.
- Where was Frenchie Mae Cumpio sentenced?
The Philippines.
- What were the charges against Cumpio?
Terrorism charges.
India Highlights
- How many Indian Army personnel died in J&K?
Ten personnel.
- Where did the J&K military vehicle accident occur?
Doda district.
- What was the record low value of the Indian Rupee?
91.70 against the US Dollar.
- What drove the Rupee to a record low?
Global trade uncertainty and investor outflows.
- Which state did PM Modi visit to flag off rail services?
Kerala.
- What specific trains did PM Modi flag off in Kerala?
Three Amrit Bharat Express trains.
- What was the theme of the Republic Day preparations in New Delhi?
Operation Sindoor.
- What anniversary was celebrated in West Bengal?
The second anniversary of the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha.
- What folk dance was used to promote Kerala tourism in Bengaluru?
Global Disasters & Accidents
- How many people died in the Mozambique floods?
Over 112.
- How many people were displaced in Mozambique?
Nearly 600,000.
- Where did a Singapore-flagged cargo ship capsize?
The South China Sea,.
- How many crew members were on the capsized Singapore ship?
21.
- What was the nationality of the crew on the capsized ship?
Filipino.
- How many people died in the South China Sea ship accident?
Two confirmed dead,.
- Where did a suicide bombing occur in Pakistan?
Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
- How many people died in the Pakistan suicide bombing?
Seven people.
- How many were injured in the Pakistan suicide bombing?
25 people.
- Where was the ATR 42-500 plane crash recovery located?
South Sulawesi, Indonesia.
- Which agency owned the crashed ATR 42-500?
Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries.
- How many were killed in an avalanche in Pakistan's Chitral District?
Nine killed.
- How many people died in an Afghan snowstorm?
11 killed.
Protests & Social Issues
- Why was there an "economic blackout" in Minnesota?
To protest ICE immigration crackdowns.
- Who is Nekima Levy Armstrong?
A prominent civil rights activist arrested in Minnesota.
- Where was Nekima Levy Armstrong arrested?
Inside a St. Paul church.
- Why was the church protest significant?
A top ICE official serves as a pastor there.
- How many people were killed in Uganda's election protests?
At least 30 people.
- How many people were arrested during Uganda's protests?
2,000 people.
- What Syrian group's prison was taken over by government forces?
An ISIL-linked prison.
- Whose belongings are being sold following a court ruling?
The Mandela family's belongings.
- What did scientists discover in Indonesia?
The oldest cave art known.
General Knowledge from Sources
- What major event concluded on January 23, 2026?
The World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos,.
- What is the current US administration's stance on deep-sea mining?
It is fast-tracking rules without environmental oversight.
- Who is Steve Witkoff?
A Trump envoy who met Putin in Moscow.
- What did the Kremlin emphasize about any Ukraine settlement?
It hinges on territorial issues.
- Which city in the UAE is hosting Ukraine-Russia talks?
Abu Dhabi.
- Is the US at war with Venezuela according to Marco Rubio?
No, but it retains "levers of leverage".
- What is the current status of the Rafah crossing?
It is set to reopen next week in both directions as part of an October ceasefire.

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