Home Secretary James Cleverly announces the ban on Hizb ut-Tahrir, labeling the Islamist group as "antisemitic" and accusing it of actively promoting terrorism. The decision, under UK terrorism laws, follows allegations of chanting "jihad" at a pro-Gaza rally. Hizb ut-Tahrir denies the accusations, vowing to challenge the ban legally. The ban, effective this Friday, criminalizes association with, support for, or display of material endorsing the group. The organization, founded in 1953, advocates a single Islamic government globally. The move is met with support from some quarters, while Hizb ut-Tahrir contends it's being silenced for its political stance.

Maj Gen Aidarus al-Zoubaidi, from Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council, warns that the current US-led airstrikes against Houthi rebels won't secure Red Sea navigation. He calls on the West for arms, training, and intelligence to complement air campaigns, emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive approach. Recent Houthi attacks near Hodeidah and on a US-owned cargo ship highlight the urgency. Zoubaidi dismisses Houthi claims, linking attacks to Israel, stating they serve Iran's agenda. The plea for ground support coincides with stalled peace talks and the revelation that the de facto ceasefire is nonexistent, with daily Houthi drone activity.

Amid rising tensions between Russia and Ukraine, classified documents accessed by Germany's Bild newspaper reveal alarming preparations for an armed conflict with Russia. The report suggests Germany anticipates Russia expanding its aggression to NATO ally countries, potentially sparking World War 3. The "Alliance Defence 2024" scenario outlines a spring offensive by Russian forces against Ukraine, leading to heightened clashes by September. Tens of thousands of German soldiers are reportedly poised for deployment. While Russian officials label the report as "fake," the documents indicate a strategic response by NATO, including measures for credible deterrence by May 2025.            

Vivek Ramaswamy exited the Republican primary race after finishing fourth in the Iowa Caucuses. The biotech entrepreneur and vocal critic of 'wokeness' threw his support behind Donald Trump following the former president's dominant win. Ramaswamy acknowledged the lack of a viable path for his candidacy, citing concerns about the nation's direction. Known for his provocative statements, he faced challenges sustaining momentum. Despite once polling at 11.6%, he dwindled to just over 4% on his campaign's final day. Former GOP Speaker Newt Gingrich commended Ramaswamy's endorsement of Trump as "mature and statesmanlike."

Hamas releases a video announcing the death of two Israeli hostages seized in October. The footage features a woman hostage, Noa Argamani, revealing their deaths under duress. Israel's military denies responsibility, calling it a "brutal use of innocent hostages." The Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas's armed wing, attributes the deaths to "Zionist army's bombing." The situation exacerbates tensions in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant accuses Hamas of applying "psychological pressure," ruling out a Gaza ceasefire. The international community watches closely as the humanitarian crisis escalates in the region.

In the initial stages of the Iowa caucuses, former President Donald Trump secures a notable victory, clinching 49.5% of the votes with just 6% of the ballots counted. Trump is set to address his supporters in Des Moines, where celebrations are underway. The competition for second place unfolds between Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, securing 22.4%, and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley with a substantial 20.6%. Amid the political drama, a disruption hits a caucus site in Des Moines. President Biden's campaign reacts swiftly to Trump's projected win, emphasizing the need to protect previous achievements.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards launched missile attacks on alleged Israeli "spy headquarters" in Iraq's Kurdistan region and terrorist sites in Syria. The strikes, in response to recent attacks on Iranians, resulted in four deaths and six injuries in Iraq. The US condemned the "reckless" actions, while explosions were reported in Syria. Tensions escalate as Iran accuses Israel of conducting "spy operations." The region is on edge amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, with previous strikes and counter-strikes heightening geopolitical tensions. The situation remains fluid, with international concerns about the potential for further violence.

The UK announces its largest NATO deployment in four decades, sending 20,000 armed forces personnel to Exercise Steadfast Defender. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps highlights the need for reassurance against the "menace" of Russian President Putin post-Ukraine invasion. The deployment includes advanced warships, submarines, fighter jets, and surveillance aircraft. Shapps emphasizes facing rising dangers to the international rules-based order and a period of "hard-headed realism" against global threats. The exercise aims to strengthen NATO's capabilities amid challenges from China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia.

UN agency chiefs warn of an impending humanitarian crisis in Gaza as the Israel-Hamas war marks its 100th day. The death toll rises to 24,100, with urgent appeals for more aid. UN officials emphasize the necessity of additional entry routes, increased daily truck allowances, and safe movement for aid workers. While not directly blaming Israel, they cite hindrances, including limited border crossings and ongoing fighting. Gaza faces famine and disease, impacting a desperate population displaced by the conflict. Tensions escalate regionally, and calls for international assistance intensify amid a dire situation.

As the Israel-Hamas war hits its 100th day, PM Netanyahu vows unyielding determination: "No one will stop us." Families rally for hostages in Tel Aviv, marking three months since their captivity. Former hostages express despair in Tel Aviv's Hostage Square. Gaza witnesses a rising death toll, with over 23,000 casualties since the conflict began. UN deems Gaza "uninhabitable." Questions arise on Gaza's rebuilding as Israel faces genocide accusations in the International Court of Justice. Tensions persist on Israel's northern border, and fears grow over the war's potential spread in the Middle East.