The World Economic Forum (WEF) President, Borge Brende, has raised concerns over the impact of Houthi attacks on merchant ships in the Red Sea, warning of a potential $10-20 increase in oil prices for oil-importing countries like India. Speaking ahead of the 54th WEF annual meeting in Davos, Brende highlighted the adverse effects on the global supply chain, emphasizing the potential closure of the Suez Canal. The situation poses a significant threat to India's economy, heavily dependent on oil imports. Despite optimism about India's economic growth, Brende urged continued reforms and emphasized the need for global collaboration in a fractured world.

UK Foreign Secretary, Lord Cameron, dismisses South Africa's claim of genocide against Israel during a two-day hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). South African lawyers argue that Israel's actions in Gaza amount to genocide, citing decades of oppression and over 23,000 deaths. Lord Cameron calls the accusation "nonsense" and asserts Israel's self-defense stance after the October 7 attack. Labour's Wes Streeting views the case as a distraction from diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire. The ICJ's ruling, potentially legally binding, could take years. Israel's compliance remains uncertain, with the possibility of facing UN sanctions.

Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah cautioned that American and British strikes on Yemen were a threat to global maritime navigation. Denouncing the strikes as "stupidity," Nasrallah asserted that Yemen's Houthis would persist in targeting ships connected to Israel in the Red Sea. Expressing concern, he stated that the Red Sea had become a battleground with repercussions for all maritime traffic, affecting ships unrelated to the conflict. Hezbollah's warning raises alarms about the broader impact of military actions on international waterways. The group, rooted in Lebanon, holds significant political influence and economic interests, shaping regional dynamics.

National security advisors from 83 countries convened in Davos to discuss Ukrainian President Zelensky's 10-point peace proposals, acknowledging the challenge of involving Russia. Co-chaired by Andriy Yermak and Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis, the talks aimed at preparing for future negotiations with Russia, emphasizing the need for collective dialogue beyond Western nations. Brazil, India, and South Africa's participation, as BRICS members in communication with Moscow, added crucial perspectives. Cassis highlighted the urgency to include Russia in the peace process while addressing ongoing civilian casualties in Ukraine. The discussions focused on criteria to end hostilities, troop withdrawal, justice, and de-escalation prevention.

Israel commemorates 100 days since the unprecedented Hamas attack that left over 1,200 dead and around 130 hostages still held in Gaza. Families of the abducted joined a Tel Aviv rally, demanding updates on their loved ones. Israel responded with a massive bombing campaign, devastating Gaza and displacing 85% of its population. Over 23,000 civilians are reported dead, with calls for a ceasefire intensifying, even from the US. President Biden criticizes Israel's "indiscriminate bombing," warning of declining global support. As the conflict persists, questions arise about the war's end and the post-war scenario in the region.

Israeli security agencies, including the Mossad, ISA, and IDF, have unveiled a significant Hamas terror operation targeting the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. A joint statement reveals ongoing intelligence efforts, exposing Hamas's plan to expand violent activities globally. Recent arrests in Denmark and Germany exposed seven suspects affiliated with Hamas plotting attacks on European civilians. The operation revealed details of Hamas's global terrorist activities, including plans to attack the Israeli Embassy in Sweden, acquiring UAVs, and collaborating with criminal organizations in Europe. Israel vows to collaborate internationally to thwart Hamas and other terrorist organizations, prioritizing the safety of Israel and its people.

Israeli strikes in Rafah, Gaza, have resulted in 135 casualties, including ten people in a house sheltering displaced families. The southern city's population, exceeding one million, faces heightened peril as rockets are fired from Gaza into southern Israel. Reports indicate civilian homes hit, leaving residents questioning the strikes' justification. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) state they target Hamas and minimize civilian harm. Health services in Rafah struggle to cope with the influx of over 1.3 million displaced people. Intense battles and airstrikes also reported in central Gaza Strip, raising concerns for civilian safety.

Seoul's military reports North Korea launching a suspected intermediate-range ballistic missile towards the East Sea. The launch follows Pyongyang's recent live-fire exercises near the tense maritime border with South Korea. Details about the missile are under analysis by Seoul, Washington, and Tokyo. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff state their military is fully ready, closely sharing information with the US and Japan. The missile test occurs amid strained inter-Korean relations, with North Korea branding Seoul its "principal enemy" and conducting advanced missile tests. The situation adds to tensions in the region.

Canada's Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, reveals plans to cap the influx of international students, deeming the current system "out of control." With around 900,000 international students, discussions on reduction targets remain behind closed doors. India leads in student numbers, comprising over 37%. Recent measures, including increased financial requirements for study permits, aim to ensure a viable system. Miller emphasizes the need to discuss volume impact on specific areas. As Canada reassesses international student policies, changes aim to balance intake and address financial capabilities.

Former President Donald Trump denounces GOP candidate Vivek Ramaswamy as a "fraud" and "conman" on TruthSocial. Trump warns supporters against backing the biotech entrepreneur, accusing him of deceitful campaign tricks. Ramaswamy, a staunch Trump supporter, faces backlash from Trump's campaign, signaling concerns about his potential base support. In response, Ramaswamy defends Trump, citing a system aiming to keep him out of the White House. Despite Trump's criticism, Ramaswamy remains committed to his "America-First approach." The attack precedes the Des Moines Register/NBC News/Mediacom Iowa Poll before the Jan. 15 Iowa Caucuses.