Israeli airstrikes over the weekend killed at least 97 Palestinians in Gaza, including nine in two separate strikes in Nuseirat and Jabalia. Gaza's health ministry reported 45,805 Palestinians killed since the conflict began. The Israeli military stated it targeted over 100 Hamas positions, killing dozens of militants. Truce negotiations mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the US resumed in Doha, with Hamas signaling readiness for an agreement. The conflict, triggered by Hamas’ October 2023 attack that killed 1,200 Israelis, continues to devastate Gaza, leaving most residents displaced and reliant on aid.

Manchester and Liverpool airports in the United Kingdom resumed operations after being temporarily closed due to heavy snowfall. Severe weather conditions disrupted flights, leaving travelers stranded and schedules delayed. Authorities cleared runways and ensured safety measures before reopening. Despite resuming operations, many flights remain delayed or rescheduled, causing ongoing inconvenience for passengers.   In a statement, airport officials advised travelers to check their flight status and prepare for possible delays. The UK’s Met Office has issued warnings for continued snow and freezing conditions, urging caution for air travel in affected regions.

Ukraine has launched a fresh offensive in Russia's Kursk region, as confirmed by the Russian Defence Ministry. Ukrainian forces reportedly counter-attacked with tanks and armoured vehicles. The incursion follows Ukraine’s initial push into the region in August last year. While Russia has gained significant ground in recent months, pushing Ukraine back, it has failed to fully expel them. Ukrainian officials have described the situation as favorable for Ukraine, with Andriy Yermak stating that Russia is "getting what it deserves." Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Air Force intercepted a significant drone attack over multiple regions, causing some damage in Kharkiv.

US President Joe Biden awarded billionaire philanthropist George Soros the Presidential Medal of Freedom, sparking mixed reactions. Soros was recognised for his work in democracy, human rights, and social justice. His son, Alex Soros, accepted the award on his behalf. Critics, including Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Republican leaders, called the honour politically driven. Biden defended the awardees, praising their contributions to American values. Other recipients included Hillary Clinton, Lionel Messi, and Michael J. Fox. Soros, a major donor to Democratic causes, has faced criticism globally for his political influence, with pushback in countries like Hungary and Russia.

The US plans to send an $8 billion arms shipment to Israel, including missiles, artillery shells, and bombs. The State Department has notified Congress, and the deal awaits approval from key committees. President Biden, who has often called US support for Israel "iron-clad," says the shipment ensures Israel can defend itself and deter threats. The move follows criticism of US military aid to Israel amid high civilian casualties in Gaza. Since October 2023, over 45,580 people in Gaza have died, as per Hamas-run health officials. The US remains Israel’s largest arms supplier, providing 69% of its conventional weapons.

King Charles expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of Edward Pettifer, 31, stepson of Alexandra Pettifer, formerly Tiggy Legge-Bourke, a royal nanny. Edward was among 14 killed in a vehicle attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day. The suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, drove a truck into crowds, killing and injuring dozens. The FBI labeled the act as premeditated, citing connections to extremist ideologies. Edward’s family described him as a “wonderful son and friend.” Prince William and Prince Harry have been informed, with no public statement from Harry. The royal family extended condolences to all affected by the tragedy.

India's stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah suffered a back spasm on Day 2 of the crucial fifth Test against Australia in Sydney, a match determining the WTC Final. Bumrah managed only one over post-lunch before being sent for precautionary scans. Although he is fit to bat, the decision on his bowling will depend on his condition on Day 3. Prasidh Krishna (3-42), Mohammed Siraj (3-51), and Nitish Kumar Reddy (2-32) stepped up in his absence, dismissing Australia for 181. India finished at 141-6, with Rishabh Pant's blazing 50 adding momentum. India must win to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as Australia leads 2-1.

London’s first new Piccadilly line test train, part of a £2.9 billion upgrade, was graffitied shortly after arriving from Germany. The nine-carriage train, built by Siemens Mobility, promises air-conditioned carriages, increased capacity, and improved energy efficiency. Mayor Sadiq Khan called it a pivotal step for London’s transport modernization. The vandalism occurred at Latchmere Junction en route to a west London depot. TfL swiftly cleaned the graffiti and reassured residents about the project’s progress. Testing continues overnight and during planned closures, with all 94 trains expected to enter service by 2027. This marks a key milestone for London’s iconic Tube network.

President Joe Biden has blocked the $14.9 billion sale of US Steel to Japan’s Nippon Steel, citing risks to national security. The decision followed a deadlock in the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). Biden emphasized the need to protect domestic industry and critical supply chains, a move welcomed by the United Steelworkers union. Nippon Steel and US Steel criticized the decision, calling it politically driven and a violation of due process. Japan’s industry minister expressed regret over the decision. Biden reiterated his commitment to rebuilding the US manufacturing base and maintaining resilient supply chains.

Matthew Livelsberger, a US Army Green Beret veteran, detonated a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on January 1, injuring 7 people. Livelsberger, reportedly struggling with PTSD, left digital notes blaming “feckless leadership” for America’s decline, calling his act a "wake-up call." His charred body was identified through military ID and passport. Authorities linked his actions to personal struggles, including a recent marital dispute. The FBI described the incident as a tragic suicide involving a decorated veteran. Livelsberger's final messages urged citizens to act against societal decay, highlighting his deep disillusionment with US leadership.