In other news

Bud Cort, the US actor known for his role in the 1971 cult classic Harold and Maude, has died at the age of 77 after a long illness. Cort had a 50-year career in film and television, appearing in over 80 productions, including Wes Anderson's The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou. His performance in Harold and Maude earned him nominations for a Golden Globe and a Bafta. The film, directed by Hal Ashby, became a cult classic despite initial commercial and critical failure. Cort's work was praised by director Edgar Wright, who called him a 'welcome and magnetic presence' in every film he appeared in.

Cyclone Gezani has killed at least 31 people in Madagascar, particularly in the port city of Toamasina, causing widespread destruction and chaos. The cyclone made landfall with winds of 250 km/h, destroying nearly 75% of the city, uprooting trees, and ripping off roofs. The disaster management office has evacuated dozens of injured people and hundreds of residents. Gezani is the second cyclone to hit Madagascar this year, following tropical cyclone Fytia, which killed 14 and displaced over 31,000 people. The cyclone has weakened to a moderate tropical storm and is expected to move out to sea into the Mozambique Channel.

The article reports on the death of James Van Der Beek, the star of the popular TV show Dawson's Creek, who passed away at the age of 48 after battling bowel cancer. The news was met with an outpouring of tributes from his co-stars and friends, including Busy Philipps, Mary-Margaret Humes, Krysten Ritter, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Alfonso Ribeiro, Stacy Keibler, Chad Michael Murray, Kerr Smith, Austin Nichols, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Jennifer Garner. They shared their memories and condolences with Van Der Beek's family, particularly his wife Kimberly and their six children.

Ghana has declared Wednesdays as 'Fugu Day' to promote the traditional outfit after it was mocked by Zambians during President John Dramani Mahama's state visit. The government aims to project Ghana's identity and stimulate the creative economy. Many Ghanaians have embraced the initiative, wearing the fugu to work and showcasing it on social media. The move has also boosted business for fugu makers and sellers, with orders coming in from within and outside Ghana. The online debate sparked a cultural movement, with Ghanaians and Zambians sharing their traditional outfits on social media.

The article reports on the 47th anniversary of Iran's revolution, where rallies in Tehran were marked by both celebration and discontent. The government's loyal supporters flooded the streets, but there were also signs of defiance, including chants of 'death to the dictator.' The protests last month, which were met with lethal force, have left a lasting impact on the city, with many Iranians expressing their anger and pain over the government's handling of the situation. President Masoud Pezeshkian apologized for the government's shortcomings, but the supreme leader has vowed to show no leniency to those branded as troublemakers. The article highlights the complex and challenging situation in Iran, with economic hardship, corruption, and international sanctions compounding the country's problems.

The mother of two young women injured in a New Year's Day fire at a Swiss bar met privately with the bar owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, during a hearing in Sion. The fire killed 41 people and injured 115. The Morettis are under criminal investigation for involuntary manslaughter and other charges. The mother, Leila Micheloud, stated that the victims were 'not just names on a list but they too had faces.' The hearing was part of an ongoing investigation into the disaster, with several former employees criticizing the Morettis for safety failings. The fire was blamed on sparkling candles in champagne bottles, and footage showed an employee using snooker cues to push sound-proofing foam back into place on the ceiling weeks before the disaster.

The article discusses the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of US news anchor Savannah Guthrie. A man named Carlos was detained by police in connection with the case but was later released. The FBI has released images and videos of a masked person at Nancy Guthrie's doorstep on the night of her disappearance, and authorities are investigating a series of ransom notes. The family has pleaded for the public's help in locating Nancy Guthrie, who has a fragile health condition and is in need of medication.

Russia has attempted to fully block WhatsApp, as part of a broader crackdown on messaging apps. The move is seen as an effort to push over 100 million WhatsApp users in Russia to a state-developed surveillance app called Max. The app is similar to China's WeChat and combines messaging and government services without encryption. Russian regulators have been warning WhatsApp to comply with local laws, including storing user data within the country. The blocking of WhatsApp is part of a larger trend of internet restrictions in Russia, with other Meta apps like Instagram and Facebook already blocked. Telegram, another popular messaging app, has also faced restrictions. The actions are justified by Russian officials as necessary due to Meta being designated as an extremist organization.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has made a rare public reference to a recent military purge, addressing the People's Liberation Army (PLA) on the Chinese New Year. The purge saw the removal of General Zhang Youxia, considered Xi's closest military ally, and another senior officer, General Liu Zhenli, on grounds of 'serious violations of discipline and law,' a euphemism for corruption. Xi emphasized the PLA's loyalty to the Communist Party and their capability in the face of various challenges. The purge is part of Xi's ongoing anti-corruption drive, which critics argue is also used to eliminate political rivals. This crackdown is the latest in a series, with 14 full-rank generals sacked or investigated in the past three years, significantly impacting the Central Military Commission's composition.

A year after US President Donald Trump's tariffs were imposed, Chinese factories and ports are experiencing a surge in activity ahead of the Lunar New Year. Despite initial concerns that the tariffs would negatively impact Chinese exports, factories are operating at full capacity, and major ports are handling a significantly higher volume of containers. Freight rates have increased, and companies are adapting to the new trade environment. Many multinational firms are diversifying their supply chains, but China remains a crucial production hub. The article highlights the resilience of Chinese factories and the adaptability of companies in response to trade tensions.

Asia-Pacific markets opened higher on Thursday, with Japan's Nikkei 225 hitting a record high of 58,000, driven by renewed confidence in domestic politics and the ruling administration's economic agenda following Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's landslide victory. Other markets in the region also rose, despite a stronger-than-expected U.S. payrolls data that dampened expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts. The Kospi jumped 1.82%, Singapore's benchmark index crossed 5,000, and Australia's S&P/ASX 200 was up 0.42%. However, Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index lost 0.23%. The U.S. jobs report showed 130,000 new jobs in January, exceeding estimates, and reducing the likelihood of interest rate cuts.

The K-pop group BTS' comeback tour is driving a surge in travel demand and hotel searches across Asia and beyond. The tour, which will visit 34 cities worldwide from April 2026 to March 2027, has seen tickets sell out in 20 minutes, with resale prices reaching up to 40 times face value. Hotel rooms near concert venues have also been fully booked, with some charging double the typical weekend rates. The tour is expected to bring a significant boost to local economies, with concert tourists driving demand for accommodations and other travel-related services.

European stocks opened higher on Thursday as investors awaited a new batch of earnings reports from major companies. The pan-European Stoxx 600 index rose by almost 0.6%, with most sectors and major bourses in positive territory. The U.K.'s FTSE index advanced 0.38%, Germany's DAX opened 0.9% higher, and France's CAC 40 gained 1.4%. Companies reporting earnings on Thursday included Siemens, L'Oreal, and Mercedes-Benz Group. The positive open came after markets closed mixed on Wednesday, as investors assessed corporate earnings. U.K. fourth quarter GDP and industrial production figures were also due on the data front. In Asia Pacific markets, Japan's Nikkei 225 hit a record high, while U.S. futures were little changed after the Dow Jones Industrial Average's three-day win streak ended.

SoftBank Vision Fund reported a $2.4 billion gain in the December quarter, largely due to a $4.2 billion gain in the value of its OpenAI investment. The gain offset losses from other investments, such as Coupang and ByteDance. SoftBank has invested heavily in AI companies, including OpenAI, and is positioning itself at the center of the technology's development. The company is funding its continued investments in OpenAI by trimming its stakes in other companies and taking out loans backed by its other holdings. SoftBank also announced a new 'AI Computing Segment' in its earnings report, which includes chip designer Arm and other semiconductor businesses.

The stock market experienced a downbeat trading day on Wednesday after a strong jobs report, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average falling over 66 points. The January nonfarm payrolls report showed 130,000 jobs added, exceeding expectations. This strong jobs growth has raised questions about the Federal Reserve's interest rate outlook, potentially leading to fewer rate cuts. Stock futures were little changed Wednesday night, with Cisco Systems sliding 7% after issuing disappointing guidance. McDonald's dipped less than 1% despite beating earnings expectations. The consumer price index report on Friday is expected to provide further clarity on the Fed's interest rate decisions.

The article discusses the escalating tensions between the US and Iran, with President Donald Trump threatening to take 'something very tough' against Iran if it doesn't comply with US demands. Analysts doubt that the US will strike Iran, citing the inadequacy of US forces in the region to support a significant long-term military operation. Trump's options are limited, and a potential attack on Iran could lead to a prolonged conflict and significant consequences. The article highlights the complexities of the situation, including the centralized power structure in Iran, the potential for Iranian retaliation, and the risks of regime change.

The UK economy grew 0.1% in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to the Office for National Statistics, missing economists' expectations of 0.2% growth. The economy expanded 0.1% in December, down from 0.2% the previous month. Despite a mixed economic picture, with the services sector showing no growth, manufacturing drove the quarterly expansion. The UK economy is estimated to have grown 1.3% in 2025. Economists predict that the Bank of England may cut interest rates in April to stimulate the economy, as inflationary pressures are expected to ease. Experts are cautiously optimistic about a recovery in 2026, citing recent data showing increased manufacturing activity and new business activity in the services industry.

Chinese AI stocks rallied on Thursday as several companies unveiled upgraded models and top policymakers renewed calls for broader adoption of the technology. Zhipu AI surged 30% after releasing its GLM-5 model, while MiniMax jumped 11% following the launch of its updated M2.5 open-source model. The Shanghai STAR AI Industry Index climbed 1.7%. The rally comes amid intensifying competition in AI as Chinese developers race to match U.S. rivals. Chinese Premier Li Qiang stressed the need for a comprehensive push for scaled and commercialized application of AI. The rally in pure-play AI startups contrasts with a broader slump in Chinese tech giants. Analysts remain cautiously optimistic about the AI trade, with some considering the talk of an AI bubble 'premature'.

The article discusses the decline of global press freedom and its implications. It acknowledges that journalists can be infuriating at times due to simplification, exaggeration, and occasional inaccuracies, as well as their demographic skew towards being university-educated and middle-class. However, it emphasizes that despite these flaws, a free press is crucial for holding corrupt politicians accountable. The decline in trust in the news media, exacerbated by social media, is noted, but the article argues that it is in the public's interest to care about the health of journalism. As press freedom dwindles, corrupt politicians benefit from less scrutiny, making it harder to uncover their wrongdoings. The article concludes by stressing the importance of a free press in maintaining transparency and accountability in governance.

The article discusses Britain's ongoing political instability, citing the chronic condition of a prime minister's declining popularity, cabinet scandals, and failed coups. With Sir Keir Starmer weakened, the government is expected to drift left. The article highlights the repetitive nature of British politics, where a prime minister's authority is undermined, and the government limps on despite promises of change.

The article discusses the growing consideration among countries to develop nuclear weapons as a means of ensuring their safety in a world where might makes right. Nordic defence strategists, as well as America's allies such as Poland, Japan, and South Korea, are contemplating the need for nuclear arms. The article highlights the shift in thinking towards nuclear proliferation as a potential solution to security concerns, contrasting with the traditional notion of safety and security.

The article discusses the growing controversy surrounding the use of transgender medicine for minors in the United States, with critics predicting a surge in medical-malpractice lawsuits. The article cites statistics on the number of gender-related surgeries performed on minors and highlights the debate between advocates and critics of such procedures. Advocates argue that they can relieve distress and prevent suicide, while critics claim that the evidence is shoddy and that minors are not equipped to make such life-altering decisions.

The article discusses the Claremont Institute, a right-wing think-tank in California that provides intellectual backing to the MAGA movement. The institute offers a 'crash course' in classical philosophy and American founding texts to young Republicans, giving them the tools to defend Trump's ideology. The article explores how this think-tank is shaping the intellectual landscape of the Republican party and the Trump doctrine.

The article 'Stop panicking about AI. Start preparing' published in The Economist on January 29th, 2026, discusses the growing anxiety about the social consequences of generative AI. While leaders like Kristalina Georgieva, Sir Demis Hassabis, and Jamie Dimon express concerns about job displacement and societal upheaval, the article argues that there is time to adapt to the changes brought about by AI. It emphasizes the need for wise use of this time to prepare for the future rather than panicking about the potential consequences.

The article discusses the potential risks associated with the US dollar's decline under President Donald Trump's administration. Despite Trump's unconventional economic policies, including tariffs and pressure on the Federal Reserve, US asset markets have remained relatively stable, with the S&P 500 index rising 14% in the past year. The article suggests that holders of American assets will need to adapt to a potentially treacherous economic environment.

The article discusses the ongoing issues with voting rights in America, particularly the practice of gerrymandering by state legislatures, which allows politicians to influence the outcome of elections. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed to end racial discrimination in elections, but its enforcement remains a challenge. The courts continue to play a crucial role in ensuring that the Act is upheld, and there are concerns that squabbles over the Act could impact black voter turnout.

The Immigration Department of Hong Kong expects approximately 11.38 million people to cross the city's borders during the Lunar New Year holiday, representing a 16% increase from the previous year. The department has made preparations to handle the anticipated heavy traffic, including minimizing leave for frontline officers and operating additional counters and channels. The projected figure is based on an estimate of 9.52 million trips through land boundary control points, with the remaining trips likely to be made through other means. The department has advised travelers to plan ahead and avoid busy periods.

The article discusses China's military presence at the World Defence Show in Riyadh, where it showcased its advanced fighter jets and drones. Despite making inroads in the Middle East with its drones, China's fighter jets face challenges in securing customers due to the complex political landscape. The event saw participation from major manufacturers from the US, China, South Korea, and Turkey, with South Korea's Black Eagles aerobatic team making a notable appearance. China's J-10CE fighter jet drew attention due to its performance during the India-Pakistan conflict in May 2025.

A Dutch court has upheld the suspension of Zhang Xuezheng, the former CEO of Nexperia, a Dutch chipmaker owned by China's Wingtech. The court also ordered an investigation into Nexperia's governance, which could last up to six months. The decision is seen as a setback for Wingtech and may damage China-EU relations. The investigation will examine Nexperia's governance from the end of 2023, as well as recent supply chain disruptions and the de facto split with Nexperia China.

European leaders are meeting to address the EU's economic woes, reliance on China and the US, and shielding key industries from protectionist policies. The meeting is a crucial test of how far the bloc is willing to stray from its free-market principles. The EU is trying to balance free trade and protectionism, with some leaders advocating for a more protectionist approach to safeguard European industries. The situation is pressing, with Europe caught between the world's two superpowers.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has defended the country's anti-corruption chief, Azam Baki, against fresh allegations regarding his shareholdings. Azam was reported to be a key shareholder in an investment holding company, prompting public anger. However, Azam clarified that he had declared the shares and disposed of them within the same year, and Anwar has urged critics to consider Azam's explanation before passing judgment.

The MTR Corporation has been urged to investigate a recent 1½-hour partial shutdown of the Island line in Hong Kong, with ex-lawmaker Gary Zhang suggesting that human error is likely to be the cause unless there was an unprecedented mechanical failure. Zhang, a former MTR engineer, called for the investigation to focus on whether maintenance protocols were strictly followed. The MTR Corporation reported that items from a maintenance vehicle and damage to track equipment caused the disruption.

The Philippines plans to expand its civilian population in the disputed Spratly Islands, amid a diplomatic row with China. Local authorities in Kalayaan, a group of islands within the Spratly Islands, aim to grow the population beyond its current outpost on Thitu Island (Pagasa) to six other land masses under its administration. The move is intended to boost the local economy. The decision comes amid a tense diplomatic exchange between Kalayaan's municipal leaders and Chinese embassy officials in Manila.

The US Army has established a new rotational deployment in the Philippines, aimed at deterring China and supporting the Typhon missile system. The deployment marks the US Army's first rotational unit in the Philippines and represents a shift from previous 'iterative engagement cycles' to a more sustained presence. Military analysts say the move is part of the US's efforts to contain China in the region.

An Irishman, Seamus Culleton, who had been living in the US for nearly 18 years, married an American, and was close to obtaining a green card, was detained by ICE agents and is now being held in a detention center in Texas. He describes the conditions as 'filthy' and 'like a modern-day concentration camp.' His lawyer and wife are fighting for his release, and his case highlights the controversy surrounding Trump's ICE crackdown and mass deportation policies.

NATO has launched a mission called Arctic Sentry to strengthen its presence in the Arctic region following Donald Trump's threats to annex Greenland. The mission will coordinate the increasing military presence of NATO allies in the Arctic and includes exercises such as Denmark's Arctic Endurance exercise in Greenland. The UK will double its troop deployment to Norway from 1,000 to 2,000 over three years. The mission aims to safeguard NATO members and maintain stability in the strategically significant and environmentally challenging Arctic region. The move comes after Trump's repeated expressions of interest in acquiring Greenland, which sparked tensions with European NATO members.

A Starsky Aviation Fokker 50 passenger plane with 55 people on board made an emergency landing at Mogadishu's Aden Abdulle International Airport in Somalia after developing a technical problem 15 minutes into its flight. The plane overran the runway, ended up in shallow waters, and was damaged, but all passengers and crew were safely evacuated without injury. The cause of the incident is to be investigated.

A 13-year-old boy, Austin Appelbee, swam 4km to shore and ran 2km to get help after he and his family were swept out to sea while on a kayak and paddleboard trip off the west coast of Western Australia. Austin made an emergency call, calmly explaining the situation and requesting a helicopter to rescue his family. Despite being scared, tired, and suffering from hypothermia, Austin's composure and critical decisions led to a successful rescue operation, with his family being located and brought back to shore 10 hours after they entered the water.

Prince William concluded his first tour of Saudi Arabia by visiting the Sharaan Nature Reserve, where he learned about conservation efforts to protect endangered species such as the Arabian leopard and oryx. He also visited the historic town of AlUla, featuring over 900 mud-brick houses, and met local farmers to discuss sustainable farming practices. The trip has been overshadowed by allegations surrounding Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein.

Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Laegreid confessed to cheating on his ex-girlfriend during a live television interview after winning a bronze medal at the Winter Olympics. His ex-girlfriend stated that his actions are 'hard to forgive' despite his public declaration of love. Laegreid later apologized to his ex-girlfriend and to his countryman Johan-Olav Botn, whose gold medal achievement was overshadowed by Laegreid's confession. Laegreid expressed regret for bringing up his personal story on a day that should have been focused on Norwegian biathlon success.

The British royal family is facing intense scrutiny over their connection to the Epstein scandal, despite efforts to shift attention with Prince William's diplomatic trip to Saudi Arabia. The family has released statements distancing themselves from Prince Andrew, but the public demands more transparency and accountability. The article analyzes the royal family's response to the scandal and the challenges they face in managing their reputation.

Brigham Young University (BYU) football player Parker Kingston, a 21-year-old wide receiver, has been arrested and charged with first-degree felony rape following a year-long investigation. The alleged assault occurred on February 23, 2025, in St. George, Utah, where Kingston is accused of sexually assaulting a 20-year-old woman. The St. George Police Department conducted the investigation, gathering digital and forensic evidence and interviewing witnesses before turning the case over to the Washington County Attorney's Office. Kingston is being held without bail and is scheduled to appear in court on Friday. BYU has stated that it takes allegations of this nature seriously and will cooperate with law enforcement, but due to privacy laws, it cannot comment further. Kingston had a notable season with the Cougars, making 67 receptions for 928 yards and five touchdowns.

The article discusses the death of Frederick Jones, a 67-year-old man who died on the streets of New York City during a cold snap despite having access to subsidized housing. The author argues that the city's 'compassionate' policies, such as not requiring people to take shelter and stopping the removal of homeless encampments, are misguided and may have contributed to Jones' death. The article highlights the complexities of homelessness and the limitations of the 'housing first' approach, which prioritizes providing housing without conditions. The author suggests that this approach may not be enough to address the underlying issues that lead to homelessness, such as addiction and mental illness.

A black glove found near Nancy Guthrie's Arizona home could potentially hold crucial DNA evidence in the investigation into her kidnapping, according to former FBI agent Michael Harrigan. The glove was discovered on the roadside roughly one and a half miles from Guthrie's home in the Catalina Foothills area. Harrigan stated that if the glove is related to the investigation, it could be significant, particularly if it was worn against the kidnapper's skin, potentially containing skin cell DNA. Authorities are likely to send the glove for laboratory analysis to check for DNA evidence. The discovery comes 11 days after Guthrie's disappearance, and while Harrigan cautioned that the connection between the glove and the kidnapping is a 'low probability,' no potential evidence is considered insignificant at this stage in the investigation. The FBI had previously released footage of a masked individual with black gloves attempting to obscure a security camera at Guthrie's home.

The Philadelphia Phillies have informed veteran outfielder Nick Castellanos not to report to spring training, indicating that his time with the team is coming to an end. Castellanos is expected to be traded or released within the next two days. The decision is likely due to his underwhelming performance last season, where he posted career lows in batting average and on-base percentage, as well as a negative WAR. The Phillies have also signed Adolis Garcia, further reducing the need for Castellanos on the roster. Tensions between Castellanos and manager Rob Thomson were also reported during the season, with Castellanos appearing to clash with Thomson on multiple occasions.

Sidney Crosby is set to participate in his third Olympic Games in 2026, potentially his last, and is expected to bring his leadership and aura to the Canadian team. Crosby's Olympic experience began in 2010, where he scored the golden goal in overtime against the US, a moment that inspired a generation of hockey players. Now, at 38, Crosby remains one of the top players in the NHL, and his presence in the Olympics is seen as a significant draw. Canada's coaching staff and teammates praise Crosby's work ethic, leadership, and influence on the game. The article highlights Crosby's anticipation for the Games, his desire to win, and the excitement among his teammates.

The article argues that the Trump administration's efforts to debunk climate change fears and roll back environmental regulations have made the world a better place. The author claims that the EPA's repeal of the 'endangerment finding' will save the American people $1.3 trillion and that the transition to electric vehicles is being reversed. The article also cites various examples of the failure of green policies and the resurgence of fossil fuels, including the recent winter storm that hit the US. The author praises Trump's 'war on coal' and celebrates the administration's deregulation efforts.

American luger Sophia Kirkby, competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics, has declared herself the 'most eligible bachelorette' and is seeking a Valentine's Day date. Despite finishing fifth in the Women's Double Luge with her partner Chevonne Forgan, Kirkby is focusing on her social life, sharing her experiences in the Athletes Village and interacting with fans on Instagram. She has received numerous messages from potential suitors and has set conditions for her ideal partner, including being taller than her 5'3" stature and having the strength to 'sweep her off her feet.'

The article analyzes how President Donald Trump's attempt to weaponize the justice department against six Democratic lawmakers who warned service personnel against obeying illegal orders failed when a grand jury refused to indict them. The lawmakers, all military and intelligence veterans, were lambasted by Trump as 'traitors' guilty of 'sedition at the highest levels' and potentially eligible for the death penalty. Despite Attorney General Pam Bondi's efforts to back Trump's bid for revenge, the failure to secure an indictment was seen as a remarkable constitutional moment, validating the republican system and the rule of law. The article highlights Trump's authoritarian bent and zeal for vengeance, as well as the lawmakers' determination to defend their actions as a legitimate exercise of free speech rights.

Indonesia plans to convert toll roads across the country into emergency runways for its fighter jets, effectively creating multiple 'aircraft carriers' across its vast archipelago. The plan involves designating sections of toll roads as emergency runways, with the goal of having at least one such section in each of the country's 38 provinces. The Indonesian Air Force has already conducted successful test landings and takeoffs on a toll road in Lampung province. Analysts see this as a cost-effective way to enhance the country's defense capabilities, especially given the high cost of acquiring and maintaining aircraft carriers. The plan is not seen as directed at any specific country, but rather as a way to strengthen the Indonesian Air Force's operational readiness in the face of potential threats.

Gisèle Pelicot, a 73-year-old French woman, has given her first televised interview since her former husband Dominique Pelicot was convicted of drugging and raping her dozens of times. In the interview, she shared her shocking experience, revealed red flags she had ignored, and discussed her complex feelings towards her ex-husband and estranged children. She also spoke about her new boyfriend and her memoir, 'A Hymn to Life: Shame Has to Change Sides,' which is set to be released soon. Pelicot has become a global feminist hero and a rallying cry against rape culture, with her statement 'Shame must change sides' resonating worldwide.

The article discusses the release of an audio recording of a heroic teenager, Austin Appelbee, who made an emergency call after swimming for hours in rough seas to get help for his family. The article is accompanied by several other news stories and videos, including Olympic-related news and other trending topics. The main focus is on the bravery and level-headedness of Austin Appelbee during the emergency call.

The article discusses the Lunar New Year tradition in Taiwan where people exchange new banknotes as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. CNN's Will Ripley reports on the long lines at Taiwanese banks as people prepare for the holiday. The article also includes a list of other news videos from CNN, covering various topics such as Russia restricting Telegram users, a heroic teen's emergency call in Australia, a scuffle in Turkey's parliament, and other international news stories.

An Irish man, Seamus Culleton, who has lived in the US for nearly 20 years, has been detained by US immigration officials for almost five months despite having a valid US work permit and a pending green card application as the spouse of an American citizen. Culleton is being held at the El Paso Camp East Montana, an ICE detention facility in Texas, where he has described the conditions as 'filthy' and 'a nightmare.' His wife, Tiffany Smith, has expressed concerns for his health and well-being. The US Department of Homeland Security has denied allegations about the conditions at the facility, stating that Culleton's claims are 'false.' The Irish government is providing consular assistance to Culleton and his family.

Scientists have used artificial intelligence to decode the rules of an ancient Roman board game etched onto a limestone stone discovered in the Netherlands. The stone, dating back to the Roman era, features diagonal and straight lines that researchers believe were used to move game pieces. Using 3D imaging and AI, the team discovered that the game was likely a strategy game where players aimed to hunt and trap their opponent's pieces in as few moves as possible. The researchers trained the AI, called Ludii, on the rules of around 100 ancient games from the same region and used it to generate possible rule sets for the game. While the findings are promising, the researchers note that there is some uncertainty around the accuracy of the decoded rules.

The Trump administration's isolation of Cuba has led to a severe jet fuel shortage, forcing airlines to adjust their operations. Cuban aviation officials have warned that nine airports, including José Martí International Airport in Havana, will not have jet fuel available from Tuesday until March 11. The shortage is a result of the US cutting off Cuba's access to its primary petroleum sources in Venezuela and Mexico. Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum has pledged to continue supporting Cuba, despite US pressure to distance itself. The fuel shortage is part of a broader energy crisis in Cuba, which has led to power outages, fuel shortages, and a decline in tourism. Airlines such as Air Canada have suspended flights, while others like Southwest Airlines are requiring aircraft to carry extra fuel to avoid refueling in Cuba. The crisis has significant implications for Cuba's economy, which relies heavily on tourism.

The Norwegian Nobel Committee has condemned Iran's brutal treatment of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi, who has been imprisoned since December. The committee received credible reports of Mohammadi's life-threatening mistreatment, including being beaten with wooden sticks and batons, dragged by her hair, and kicked in the genitals and pelvic region. The committee is calling on Iran to release Mohammadi and guarantee her access to medical care. Mohammadi was arrested while attending the funeral of human rights lawyer Khosrow Alikordi and has spent much of the last two decades in Iran's Evin prison. The committee views her imprisonment as arbitrary and unjust, and her treatment as a grim example of the brutal repression following mass protests in Iran.

The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has been criticized for sending a congratulatory message to Iran on the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Critics argue that the message legitimates a repressive regime responsible for human rights abuses, including executions and the suppression of anti-government protests. The UN's top human rights body had condemned Iran's violent crackdown on protests just weeks prior. The Secretary-General's spokesperson defended the message as a standard protocol, but critics say it undermines the UN's credibility and ignores the suffering of the Iranian people.

Violence erupted in Sydney as anti-Israel protesters clashed with police during Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit to Australia. The protests were in response to Herzog's presence and Israel's actions in Gaza. 27 people were arrested, including 10 for allegedly assaulting officers. Australian leaders called for calm and restraint, while Herzog met with bereaved families and participated in memorial events for the victims of a December 14 terror attack at a Hanukkah event in Bondi Beach that killed 15 people. The visit was intended to show solidarity with the Jewish community and highlight the rise of antisemitism.

The US Trump administration has warned that Peru could lose its sovereignty to China due to a court ruling that restricted a local regulator's oversight of a Chinese-built mega port in Chancay, Peru. The $1.3 billion deepwater port is part of China's Belt and Road initiative and has become a symbol of China's growing influence in Latin America. The US State Department expressed concern that Peru could be 'powerless to oversee Chancay' and stated that 'cheap Chinese money costs sovereignty.' China has dismissed the US claims, stating that the port remains under Peruvian jurisdiction and control.

The White House abruptly fired Donald T. Kinsella, 79, as U.S. attorney for the Northern District of New York, just hours after he was appointed by federal judges in a private ceremony. The move is the latest clash between the Trump administration and the judiciary. Kinsella, a veteran litigator with over 50 years of experience, was set to replace John A. Sarcone III, whose appointment was deemed unlawful by a judge. The Trump administration had previously threatened to fire any prosecutor chosen by district judges, citing Article II of the Constitution. The firing has raised questions about the judiciary's role in appointing U.S. attorneys and the administration's willingness to challenge the judiciary.

The article explores the complex dynamics between the ethnic Chinese minority and the Malay majority in Kelantan, Malaysia, a state governed by the Islamist party PAS. While the Chinese community has historically been integrated into Kelantanese society, recent policies have led to increased regulatory encroachment and economic challenges. The article highlights the paradox between the state's symbols of interfaith accommodation, such as the 'Beijing Mosque', and the tightening grip on non-Muslim spaces. It also showcases the cultural heritage and identity of the Chinese community in Kelantan, who have maintained their traditions while adapting to the local culture.