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Trump Proposes Permanent Gaza Resettlement in White House Talks with Netanyahu 

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Trump Proposes Permanent Gaza Resettlement in White House Talks with Netanyahu 

President Donald Trump proposed permanently resettling Palestinians from Gaza in neighboring countries during a White House meeting Tuesday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Calling the war-torn enclave a “demolition site,” Trump suggested displaced Gazans would be better off relocating rather than returning to rebuild. 

Trump reiterated calls for Jordan, Egypt, and other Arab nations to accept Gazans, stating they had “no alternative” but to leave. He added that resettlement should be permanent, expanding on earlier proposals that Arab leaders have previously rejected. 

“If we could find the right piece of land and build them some really nice places with plenty of money, that would be a lot better than going back to Gaza,” Trump said before Netanyahu’s arrival. “I don’t know how they could want to stay.” 

Speaking alongside Netanyahu in the Oval Office, Trump repeated his stance, saying Gazans should move “to nice homes where they can be happy and not be shot, not be killed.” 

Trump did not provide specifics on how the plan would be implemented. His proposal aligns with Israeli far-right interests but contrasts with the previous Biden administration’s opposition to the mass displacement of Palestinians. 

Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri condemned the remarks, calling them an attempt at “expulsion from their land.” International legal experts have warned that forced displacement of Gaza’s population could violate international law. 

The meeting was Trump’s first with a foreign leader since his return to office on Jan. 20. It highlighted U.S.-Israel ties following strained relations between Netanyahu and former President Joe Biden over Israel’s handling of the war in Gaza. 

Trump and Netanyahu also discussed efforts to maintain a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and the potential for an Israeli-Saudi normalization agreement. The meeting came as mediators worked on the second phase of a truce and hostage-release deal. 

The situation remains uncertain, with a parallel ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon set to expire in the coming weeks. Concerns over Iran’s nuclear program also remain central to regional security discussions. 

Trump’s resettlement proposal has sparked regional unease, with many countries questioning how his return to power will shape Middle East policy. 

During his first term, Trump moved the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem and brokered the Abraham Accords, normalizing Israel’s relations with several Arab states. He has expressed interest in restarting talks to establish diplomatic ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia. 

However, Netanyahu faces pressure from far-right members of his coalition, who have threatened to collapse his government unless military operations in Gaza resume. Renewed fighting could complicate Trump’s push for a Saudi-Israel deal. 

The Biden administration maintained military support for Israel following Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack, but relations were strained over high Palestinian civilian casualties and Netanyahu’s refusal to heed U.S. calls for restraint. 

Trump’s push for Palestinian resettlement could also impact broader diplomatic efforts, as Saudi Arabia has conditioned normalization on a clear pathway to Palestinian statehood. 

“This is a critical moment in the region,” a U.S. official said. “Trump’s vision, Netanyahu’s domestic pressures, and the fragile ceasefire are all converging at once.”

Trump and Netanyahu Meet Amid Pressure on Israeli PM Over Truce 

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Trump and Netanyahu Meet Amid Pressure on Israeli PM Over Truce 

Former President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met Tuesday as the Israeli leader faces mounting pressure from his right-wing coalition to abandon a temporary truce with Hamas, while war-weary Israelis push for a resolution to the 15-month conflict and the return of hostages. 

Trump, who took credit for brokering the ceasefire agreement last month, expressed skepticism about its longevity. 

“I have no guarantees that the peace is going to hold,” Trump told reporters Monday. 

The meeting focused on finalizing a second phase of the hostage deal, alongside discussions on Israel-Saudi normalization and Iran’s nuclear ambitions. 

Netanyahu arrived in Washington as his political standing weakens. He is currently testifying in an ongoing corruption trial, facing allegations of exchanging favors with wealthy media figures—charges he calls a “witch hunt.” 

His visit also marks his first trip abroad since the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in November, accusing him, former Israeli officials, and Hamas leaders of crimes against humanity. The U.S. does not recognize the ICC’s authority. 

In Washington, Netanyahu and Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, met Monday to lay groundwork for the next phase of the ceasefire. Netanyahu confirmed indirect negotiations with Hamas in Qatar will continue, with his security cabinet set to review Israel’s demands when he returns later this week. 

Hard-right members of Netanyahu’s coalition are demanding a resumption of military operations in Gaza. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has threatened to topple the government if fighting does not resume, potentially triggering early elections. 

Meanwhile, Hamas insists it will not release more hostages without a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Netanyahu, however, maintains that Israel will not stop military operations until Hamas is defeated and all hostages are freed. 

Trump has floated relocating Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan, despite firm rejection from both nations and opposition from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, the Palestinian Authority, and the Arab League. 

Nevertheless, Trump argues that Cairo and Amman might accept displaced Palestinians due to the U.S. aid they receive. Some of Netanyahu’s right-wing allies support the plan, viewing Gaza as “uninhabitable” for long-term resettlement. 

Trump’s push for Palestinian resettlement could complicate Israel-Saudi normalization efforts. Saudi Arabia has maintained that any deal requires an end to the Gaza war and a credible pathway to Palestinian statehood. 

“This push by Trump doesn’t square with the idea of a Palestinian state as we know it,” said Shibley Telhami, an expert on Middle East diplomacy. “It’s hard to see the Saudis going along with it.” 

Netanyahu is also expected to urge Trump to take a tougher stance on Iran, seizing on recent Israeli military successes against Hamas and Hezbollah. With Iran’s air defenses weakened, Netanyahu sees an opportunity to act decisively against Tehran’s nuclear program. 

“This is one of the most critical meetings between an American president and an Israeli prime minister,” said Eytan Gilboa, a U.S.-Israel relations expert. “What’s at stake here is not just bilateral ties, but the future of the Middle East.”

UPDATED: Dead Climbs to 10 in Shooting at Swedish Adult Education Center 

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UPDATED: Dead Climbs to 10 in Shooting at Swedish Adult Education Center 

The shooting at an adult education center on the outskirts of Örebro, Sweden, initially reported by Bobnews24 has left around 10 people dead, including the suspected gunman, police said Tuesday. Officials warned the final death toll could rise as investigators continue to assess the scene. 

The damage at the crime scene was so severe that authorities could not immediately confirm the exact number of casualties, said Roberto Eid Forest, head of the local police. 

The suspected shooter was among those killed, and police believe he acted alone. He was not previously known to law enforcement, officials said. While authorities have not identified a motive, they stated there is no current indication of links to terrorism. 

The shooting occurred at Campus Risbergska, a school that provides adult education, vocational training, and courses for immigrants and individuals with intellectual disabilities. 

While Sweden has seen several violent incidents in recent years involving knives or axes, gun attacks at schools remain extremely rare. 

Following the shooting, police raided the suspect’s home but have not disclosed any findings. Authorities also confirmed that there were no prior warning signs before the attack. 

Efforts to identify the deceased are ongoing. 

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson is scheduled to hold a press conference at 7:30 p.m. local time (1830 GMT) alongside Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer to address the tragedy.

Michael Jordan’s Son Marcus Arrested on Multiple Charges, Mug Shot Reveals Serious Legal Trouble

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Michael Jordan’s Son Marcus Arrested on Multiple Charges, Mug Shot Reveals Serious Legal Trouble

Marcus Jordan, son of NBA legend Michael Jordan, was arrested and booked into the Orange County Jail on Monday for multiple charges including driving under the influence, cocaine possession, and resisting arrest.

TMZ reports that police records indicate Marcus was processed and photographed, with his mugshot showing visible distress. Specific details surrounding the arrest remain under investigation.

Jordan, who previously dated Larsa Pippen, was taken into custody after the alleged incidents. Authorities have not released additional information about the circumstances leading to his arrest.

Representatives for Marcus Jordan have not yet commented on the incident.

Mass Shooting: Five People Shot at School in Örebro, Sweden

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Mass Shooting: Five People Shot at School in Örebro, Sweden

Five people were shot at a school in central Sweden on Tuesday, triggering a significant police response in the Västhaga district of Örebro.

Police reported shots fired at approximately 12:33 p.m. local time, with the extent of injuries currently undetermined. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area and relocated students to alternative school locations for security purposes.

A major operational response is underway as law enforcement investigates the incident.

No additional details about potential suspects or motivations were immediately available.

Cristiano Ronaldo Declares Himself Football’s Greatest of All Time Reigniting GOAT Debate

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Cristiano Ronaldo Declares Himself Football’s Greatest of All Time Reigniting GOAT Debate

Cristiano Ronaldo has emphatically declared himself the greatest footballer of all time, dismissing critics and positioning himself above legendary rivals in a resolute interview.

Speaking to La Sexta, the 39-year-old Al-Nassr striker argued he is the “most complete player” in football history, citing his versatility across multiple playing dimensions.

“I do everything in football. I head well, I take set pieces well, I shoot well with my left foot, I’m fast, I’m strong, I jump,” Ronaldo stated. “To say that Cristiano isn’t complete is a lie.”

“I think I’m the most complete football player that has ever existed. People could like Messi, Maradona or Pele, and I respect it, but I’m the most complete. I’m the best player in football history. I haven’t seen anyone better than me in football history and I’m saying truth from my heart.”

The Portuguese superstar, who has scored nearly 930 goals, emphasized his comprehensive skill set as differentiating him from contemporaries Lionel Messi and historical icons Diego Maradona and Pelé.

With five Ballons d’Or and numerous global records, Ronaldo remains determined to reach 1,000 career goals while continuing to play for Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr.

“Even if I score 920, 925 or 930 goals, the best in history is me. Period,” Ronaldo declared.

Gangs Attack Haiti’s Elite Neighborhood, Killing at Least 40, Police Demand Reinforcements

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Gangs Attack Haiti’s Elite Neighborhood, Killing at Least 40, Police Demand Reinforcements

Armed gangs in Haiti have launched an assault on Kenscoff, a neighborhood home to many of the country’s elite, killing at least 40 people in an attack that has stretched into its eighth day, officials said Monday. 

Mayor Jean Massillon told The Associated Press that gunmen from the Viv Ansanm gang coalition have been targeting homes and indiscriminately opening fire. 

“As we speak, they have surrounded the area,” Massillon said, calling for urgent reinforcements. 

Among the dead are pastors, teachers, and children, but officials fear the toll is higher as security forces struggle to access parts of the area. Kenscoff, located in the foothills of a mountain range, is home to politicians, business leaders, and working-class residents who cultivate crops on its outskirts. 

The attack comes as gangs tighten their grip on Haiti, with the United Nations warning last month that armed groups could soon overrun Port-au-Prince, where they already control 85% of the capital. 

The assault on Kenscoff began on Jan. 27, just days after authorities warned of imminent gang attacks in the capital but failed to specify potential targets. 

Jean Bertho Valmo, a 45-year-old farmer who fled the violence, said 12 members of a single family were among those killed. 

“There is not enough water and food for everyone,” Valmo said from a makeshift shelter at the mayor’s office, where dozens have taken refuge. He also lamented losing his crops of cabbage, carrots, and broccoli. 

“I invested everything I had in them. The police, the government need to put a stop to this,” he said. 

The International Organization for Migration reported Monday that the attack on Kenscoff has displaced more than 1,660 people, adding to the more than 1 million Haitians already left homeless by gang violence in recent years. 

A police union said Friday that the attack “could have been avoided” if law enforcement had access to proper equipment, including helicopters, all-terrain vehicles, and intelligence-gathering resources. 

“Despite these bad conditions, our policemen are making tireless sacrifices, but we cannot tolerate the negligence of the authorities,” the SPNH-17 police union said in a statement, demanding urgent government action.

Nigeria Labour Union Suspends Telecom Tariff Protest, Begins Talks With Government

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Nigeria Labour Union Suspends Telecom Tariff Protest, Begins Talks With Government

Nigeria’s largest labour union has suspended a planned nationwide protest against a 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs and will engage in negotiations with the government to resolve the dispute within two weeks, both parties announced Tuesday. 

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), which represents millions of workers, had scheduled a demonstration for Feb. 4 after rejecting the tariff hike approved by the telecoms regulator last month—the first such increase in over a decade. 

Telecom operators cited rising operational costs driven by inflation nearing 35% and a weakening naira as reasons for the price hike. However, the NLC condemned the increase as “insensitive” and had threatened to boycott telecom services or stage a strike unless the government agreed to discussions. 

The dispute underscores growing concerns over the rising cost of living in Africa’s most populous country, where President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms—including fuel subsidy removals, power tariff hikes, and currency devaluation—have intensified financial strain on households and businesses. 

Following negotiations late Monday, the NLC and the government agreed to form a 10-member committee with equal representation to assess the tariff increase and recommend solutions by Feb. 17. 

“The outcome of this committee will determine our next line of action in terms of protest, boycott, and even withdrawal of services,” NLC President Joe Ajaero told reporters. 

Both parties have agreed to a “stay action,” suspending any further escalation of the dispute pending the committee’s findings.

Congo’s Goma Struggles to Bury Over 2,000 Dead After M23 Rebel Takeover Amid Ceasefire Announcement

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Congo’s Goma Struggles to Bury Over 2,000 Dead After M23 Rebel Takeover Amid Ceasefire Announcement

More than 2,000 bodies require burial in the eastern Congolese city of Goma following a brutal offensive by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, Congo’s Communications Minister Patrick Muyaya said Monday. 

Relative calm has returned after the rebel alliance, which includes M23, declared a unilateral ceasefire for humanitarian reasons set to begin Tuesday. However, sporadic gunfire and looting persist, while overwhelmed hospitals and bodies left in the streets highlight the devastating toll of the conflict. 

Authorities say the number of bodies awaiting burial reflects the extent of civilian massacres in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province and a hub for gold, coltan, and tin mining. The United Nations estimates at least 900 people were killed and nearly 3,000 injured in the fighting leading to the city’s capture. 

M23, a heavily armed Tutsi-led group, is the latest in a series of Rwandan-backed militias to emerge in eastern Congo following the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Rwanda denies supporting M23, despite multiple UN reports citing evidence of military backing. 

The conflict has worsened an already dire humanitarian crisis. The UN World Food Programme reported that more than 700,000 people were displaced in Goma last month as civilians fled the fighting. 

Aid organizations are working alongside local authorities to clear hospital morgues and bury bodies amid growing concerns about disease outbreaks. 

“The land where bodies can be buried in Goma is extremely limited,” said Myriam Favier, head of the International Committee of the Red Cross sub-delegation in Goma. She noted that power outages last week affected morgue refrigeration, making it a “race against time” to identify and bury the dead. 

Bruno Lemarquis, the top UN aid official in Congo, called for the immediate reopening of Goma’s airport to allow humanitarian flights. 

Despite M23’s announcement that it has no intention of advancing toward Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, Congolese officials remain skeptical. 

“M23 says one thing and always does the opposite,” said Congo army spokesman Sylvain Ekenge. “They call for a ceasefire to reorganize and reinforce their ranks.” 

Congo’s parliament is set to hold an emergency session Tuesday to discuss the crisis, while regional leaders from eastern and southern Africa are scheduled to meet in Tanzania later this week. Rwandan President Paul Kagame has confirmed his attendance, but Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has not yet responded to requests for comment. 

Goma’s capture has sparked international condemnation, but Congolese officials are demanding stronger action, including sanctions on Rwanda. Kigali insists it is acting in self-defense and protecting ethnic Tutsis, while Kinshasa accuses Rwanda of using M23 to exploit Congo’s vast mineral wealth. 

Denis Mukwege, Congo’s Nobel Peace Prize-winning gynecologist, criticized the international community for what he called “double standards” in continuing to support Rwanda despite multiple UN reports linking it to ongoing conflicts in eastern Congo. 

“It is a policy of double standards,” Mukwege said in a post on X.

U.S. Military Aircraft Deports Migrants to India in Trump Administration’s Immigration Crackdown

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U.S. Military Aircraft Deports Migrants to India in Trump Administration’s Immigration Crackdown

A U.S. military aircraft is deporting migrants to India, marking the farthest destination yet for deportation flights under the Trump administration, a U.S. official confirmed Monday. 

The official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the C-17 aircraft had departed with migrants on board but would not reach India for at least 24 hours. 

The Trump administration has increasingly relied on the U.S. military to support its immigration enforcement efforts, deploying troops to the U.S.-Mexico border, using military bases to house migrants, and employing military aircraft to conduct deportation flights. 

The Pentagon has begun providing military flights to deport more than 5,000 migrants currently held by U.S. authorities in El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, California, as part of the administration’s broader crackdown on illegal immigration. 

So far, military aircraft have transported deportees to Guatemala, Peru, and Honduras. The addition of India marks an expansion of these efforts beyond Latin America. 

Military deportation flights come at a significant cost. Reuters previously reported that a deportation flight to Guatemala using military aircraft last week likely cost at least $4,675 per migrant. 

Despite the high costs, the Trump administration has defended the use of military resources, arguing that it accelerates the deportation process and deters illegal immigration. 

The Pentagon has not disclosed further details about future deportation flights to India or other distant destinations.

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