Singapore's Transport Minister, S Iswaran, of Indian origin, resigns from the People’s Action Party and steps down as a Member of Parliament after facing corruption charges. Arrested in July 2023, Iswaran pleads not guilty to 27 charges, including corruption and obstructing justice. In his resignation letter, he rejects the allegations but chooses to focus on clearing his name. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong expresses disappointment, emphasizing the need to uphold the party and government's integrity. Acting Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat takes over, while Minister Grace Fu assumes Iswaran’s trade relations portfolio. Iswaran pledges to return his salary and MP allowance since the investigation's commencement.

In a swift response to Iran's recent assault on the Jaish al-Adl group within Pakistani borders, Pakistan carried out retaliatory strikes on two Baloch separatist groups, the Balochistan Liberation Front and the Balochistan Liberation Army. A senior intelligence source confirmed the strikes, stating, "I can only confirm that we have conducted strikes against anti-Pakistan militant groups that were targeted inside Iran." The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, condemning Iran's breach of sovereignty, declared, "Last night's unprovoked breach is a violation of international law." The ministry added, "Pakistan reserves the right to respond," escalating tensions as geopolitical complexities unfold amidst regional conflicts.

Following an air strike on "Pakistan's soil" targeting the Jaish al-Adl group, Iran's foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, clarified that the attack aimed at an "Iranian terrorist group." Speaking at the World Economic Forum, he emphasized that no Pakistani nationals were targeted. Tensions rose as Pakistan condemned the strike, recalling its ambassador from Iran. Amir-Abdollahian assured respect for Pakistan's sovereignty but underscored Iran's commitment to national security. The strikes, also in Iraq and Syria, targeted "anti-Iranian terrorist groups." Amid diplomatic strains, the situation intensifies with Pakistan blocking Tehran's envoy and recalling its ambassador.

King Charles III, 75, diagnosed with an enlarged prostate at Balmoral's private residence. Aides confirm a benign condition, expecting the monarch to undergo corrective treatment in the hospital next week. Post-treatment, brief engagement postponement for recuperation. The king, believed to be at Birkhall, shared details to encourage men for health checks, following public health advice. This revelation coincides with Kensington Palace's announcement of the Princess of Wales undergoing successful abdominal surgery at 2 pm. Buckingham Palace's statement on Charles's health emerged 90 minutes later at 3:30 pm, marking a dual health update for the royal family.            

In a tense escalation, an Iranian Revolutionary Guards member was fatally shot in Sistan-Baluchestan province, bordering Pakistan and Afghanistan. The attack follows Iran's strikes on two bases of the militant group Jaish ul-Adl in Pakistan's Balochistan province. Iranian news agency IRNA reported the incident, stating efforts to identify the perpetrators are underway. Earlier, Pakistan recalled its ambassador to Iran, alleging a violation of airspace and denouncing Iran's strikes as an "illegal act." The incident adds strain to already heightened regional tensions, prompting concerns about potential repercussions in the volatile border region.

Residents in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, faced a night of intense Israeli air strikes. Videos captured flames illuminating the sky as locals fled a hospital amid escalating conflict. Simultaneously, Qatar mediated a deal for medicines to be sent to Israeli hostages held by Hamas, exchanging it for aid for Palestinian civilians. The civil war displaced 85% of Gaza's population, prompting UN rapporteurs to warn of imminent famine. Israel's Defense Minister anticipates a de-escalation in the south soon, but ongoing military operations signal prolonged conflict. Qatar's initiative aims to address both humanitarian and hostage-release aspects.

Indian-American contender Vivek Ramaswamy stepped back from the US Presidential race after a modest showing in Iowa, endorsing former President Donald Trump at a rally in Atkinson, New Hampshire. Trump, grateful for the support, acknowledged the alliance and hinted at future collaboration, stating, "He'll be working with us for a long time. Thank you." Despite a recent disagreement, the two leaders have consistently praised each other throughout the campaign. Trump's decisive win in Iowa solidifies his position as the Republican presidential candidate. As the focus shifts to the upcoming New Hampshire primary on January 23, the GOP looks to build momentum for the road ahead.

The Princess of Wales, aged 42, has undergone planned abdominal surgery at The London Clinic, a private hospital in London, as confirmed by Kensington Palace. The surgery was successful, and she is expected to remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days. The palace states that, based on medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter. The nature of the surgery is undisclosed, but the condition is non-cancerous. Princess Kate aims to maintain normality for her children, and updates on her progress will be provided when significant information emerges.

Adani Group, led by tycoon Gautam Adani, is set to initiate the mapping of Dharavi, one of Asia's largest slums in Mumbai, within weeks. Awarded a government contract in late 2022, the conglomerate plans an extensive overhaul of the densely packed 600-acre neighborhood. The survey, expected to commence in March, precedes the submission of the master plan in March. Residents of Dharavi express concerns about the billionaire's intentions amid the ambitious redevelopment project. The Adani-led initiative aims to transform India's financial capital, raising both anticipation and apprehension.

The Biden administration announces plans to re-designate Yemen's Houthi rebels as "global terrorists," reversing a 2021 decision. Secretary of State Antony Blinken cites ongoing Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping. The move requires freezing Houthi funds and bans their members from the US. The earlier decision, revoked due to humanitarian concerns, faced criticism for potential famine repercussions. The new designation, effective in 30 days, aims to curb Houthi assaults while ensuring humanitarian aid flow. Officials stress exemptions to limit harm to Yemeni civilians. Recent airstrikes by the US and allies respond to Houthi attacks escalating since November.