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Houthis Issue Dire Warning to Israel Following Airstrikes

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Houthis Issue Dire Warning to Israel Following Airstrikes

Yemen’s Ansar Allah movement, commonly known as the Houthis, issued a stark warning to Israel after being targeted by new airstrikes. A source within the group told Newsweek, “Our hand is longer than the hand of Israel, and we will continue our operations without stopping until the aggression on Gaza stops.” The group vowed ongoing retaliation against “Zionist war criminals,” pledging unwavering support for Gaza despite escalating challenges.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced a series of airstrikes on Yemeni targets, including the Hizaz power station in Sanaa and military facilities in Al-Hodeidah and Ras Isa. The strikes responded to Houthi missile and drone attacks launched in solidarity with Hamas amid its conflict with Israel. 

The IDF justified the airstrikes, stating, “The State of Israel has the right and obligation to defend itself.” 

Ansar Allah, a key faction in the Iran-led Axis of Resistance, continues its campaign of drone and missile attacks on Israel and vessels linked to Israeli interests. The group has also targeted U.S. warships, claiming responsibility for attacks on the USS *Harry S. Truman* and other vessels in the Red Sea. 

Newly recruited fighters who joined a Houthi military force intended to be sent to fight in support of the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, march during a parade in Sanaa, Yemen December 2, 2023. REUTERS/Khaled Abdullah

Statements from Key Players 

– Houthi Military Spokesperson Yahya Saree: Announced successful strikes on U.S. and Israeli targets, stating their operations aim to challenge “the aggression of the Zionist enemy.” 

– White House NSC Communications Director John Kirby: Acknowledged the group’s continued capabilities, emphasizing efforts to degrade their long-range threats. 

– IDF Statement: Labeled the Houthis a “terrorist regime” relying on Iranian support and reiterated their commitment to counter threats against Israel and its citizens.

The ongoing conflict has intensified Middle East tensions, with maritime warfare by Ansar Allah disrupting shipping routes, raising global consumer goods prices, and straining international coalitions aimed at stabilizing the region. The Houthis’ actions have drawn strikes not only from Israel but also from the United States and United Kingdom. 

With President-elect Donald Trump set to take office in 10 days, the situation adds complexity to an already volatile Middle East. Trump has warned of significant regional instability if a ceasefire is not achieved, particularly regarding hostages held by Hamas. 

Ansar Allah, in prior communications, has directly appealed to Trump to resolve the conflict, emphasizing the economic toll on the U.S. and global markets caused by heightened shipping costs. 

As ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas remain deadlocked, the Houthis’ ongoing operations underscore their role as a significant player in the crisis. The Biden administration’s coalition to counter Ansar Allah attacks is expected to remain active, focusing on defending commercial shipping and mitigating threats to Israel. 

Hollywood Actor Mel Gibson Reveals Home Destroyed in LA Wildfires

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Hollywood Actor Mel Gibson Reveals Home Destroyed in LA Wildfires

Mel Gibson has confirmed that his Malibu home was destroyed by the Los Angeles wildfires while he was away recording an episode of *The Joe Rogan Experience*. The Oscar-winning actor described his property as “completely toasted” and criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom’s handling of the wildfire crisis.

The devastating wildfires have claimed at least 10 lives, destroyed thousands of structures, and forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents. Authorities warn that strong winds could worsen the situation, further fueling the flames.

Speaking on Elizabeth Vargas Reports on NewsNation, Gibson expressed his emotional struggle, saying, “It’s kind of devastating, it’s emotional. I’ve been relieved from the burden of my stuff because it’s all in cinders.” 

Gibson revealed he had lived at his Malibu home for 15 years, which he now described as reduced to ashes. Neighboring homes, including one owned by fellow actor Ed Harris, were also destroyed. Gibson confirmed that his family safely evacuated before the flames reached their property. 

Then

The Braveheart star criticized Governor Newsom during his podcast appearance with Joe Rogan, accusing the governor of neglecting forest management despite previous promises. “I think all our tax dollars probably went for Gavin’s hair gel,” Gibson quipped. 

Then

The Los Angeles area is currently experiencing the worst wildfires in its history, with five major fires consuming over 31,000 acres and forcing the evacuation of 180,000 people. Fire chief David Acuna reported that an estimated 10,000 structures may have been destroyed and warned that high winds could lead to further devastation.

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Political Fallout 

The wildfire crisis has also sparked political tension. President-elect Donald Trump called for Governor Newsom’s resignation, criticizing his response to the disaster. Trump stated, “One of the best and most beautiful parts of the US is burning down to the ground.” 

Governor Newsom defended the state’s efforts, stating that authorities were “throwing everything at our disposal” to combat the fires and protect communities. A spokesperson for Newsom accused Trump of politicizing the disaster while the governor focused on ensuring firefighters had the resources they needed.

President Joe Biden pledged additional federal resources to California, calling the disaster “the most widespread, devastating fire” in the state’s history.

Celebrity Losses 

Several celebrities have also lost their homes to the wildfires. 

– Paris Hilton shared footage of her devastated property, calling the loss “indescribable.” 

– Billy Crystal expressed heartbreak over losing his Pacific Palisades home of more than 40 years. 

– Ricki Lake described her destroyed home as her “dream house.” 

– Other celebrities, including Sir Anthony Hopkins, John Goodman, Anna Faris, and Cary Elwes, also reportedly lost their homes. 

– Actor Rainn Wilson shared a video of his burned property, calling the disaster a “valuable lesson.” 

Now

Meanwhile, Police Academy star Steve Guttenberg assisted firefighters by clearing parked cars to make room for fire engines. “This is not a parking lot,” he told KTLA. 

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who reside in California, have reportedly offered their home as a safe haven for friends and loved ones affected by the evacuations. In a statement, Prince Harry and Meghan urged others to do the same, saying, “If you are able to offer them a safe haven in your home, please do.”

Trump Announces Plans for Meeting with Putin Amid Ukraine War Efforts

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Trump Announces Plans for Meeting with Putin Amid Ukraine War Efforts

President-elect Donald Trump announced plans for a potential meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, though no specific timeline has been provided. Speaking at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump stated, “He wants to meet, and we are setting it up.”

The Kremlin responded positively, indicating openness to talks but clarifying that no concrete details have been finalized.

Trump, who will take office on January 20, has pledged to prioritize negotiations to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. He has expressed scepticism about continued U.S. military and financial aid to Kyiv, emphasizing the need for a resolution. “President Putin wants to meet,” Trump said on Thursday. “He has said that even publicly, and we have to get that war over with. That’s a bloody mess.”

Ukraine’s foreign ministry acknowledged the potential for high-level discussions with the incoming Trump administration, including a prospective meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. A ministry spokesperson expressed hope that these talks could advance peace efforts.

Trump has nominated retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, a former national security adviser, as his special envoy to Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg outlined his vision for ending the conflict in a research paper published by the America First Policy Institute, a think tank aligned with Trump’s policies. The paper suggested linking future U.S. aid to Ukraine’s willingness to participate in peace talks with Moscow, while also recommending continued support for Ukraine if Russia refuses to negotiate.

Following Trump’s electoral victory in November, Zelensky voiced optimism about the potential for a quicker resolution to the war under Trump’s leadership. The Ukrainian president described a phone conversation with Trump as “constructive,” though he did not elaborate on any conditions Trump might have set regarding negotiations with Russia.

The announcement marks a significant step in Trump’s approach to foreign policy, particularly as the world watches to see how his administration will navigate the complex dynamics of the Ukraine war and U.S.-Russia relations.

US Declares Venezuelan Leader Nicolás Maduro Wanted, Announces $25 Million Reward for Arrest-bbc.com

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US Declares Venezuelan Leader Nicolás Maduro Wanted, Announces $25 Million Reward for Arrest-bbc.com

The United States has increased its reward to $25 million for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, coinciding with his inauguration for a controversial third six-year term. The announcement comes amid widespread criticism from international governments and Venezuelan opposition leaders.

FILE – Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro addresses government loyalists gathered at the presidential palace in support of his reelection one month after the presidential vote, in Caracas, Venezuela, Aug. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos, File)

Rewards were also announced for other top Venezuelan officials, including up to $15 million for Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino and additional sums for Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello. These measures follow accusations of corruption, human rights violations, and undermining democracy.

In tandem with the US move, the UK issued sanctions targeting 15 high-ranking Venezuelan officials, including judges, security personnel, and military leaders. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office stated that those sanctioned were responsible for “undermining democracy, the rule of law, and committing human rights abuses.” UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy described Maduro’s regime as “fraudulent” in his statement.

According to bbc.com, the European Union joined the international response by extending restrictive measures against Venezuela, citing the regime’s failure to restore democracy and uphold the rule of law. The EU also sanctioned an additional 15 Venezuelan officials, intensifying global pressure on the Maduro government.

Maduro has dismissed the allegations made by Western nations and opposition leaders as baseless. He has yet to issue a formal response to the latest sanctions. During his swearing-in ceremony on Friday, Maduro vowed that his new term would usher in an era of “peace, prosperity, equality, and new democracy,” saying, “I swear by history, I swear by my life, and I will fulfill it.”

The July election, which declared Maduro the winner, was widely rejected by the international community, including neighboring Brazil and Colombia. Many nations have instead recognized opposition candidate Edmundo González as Venezuela’s legitimate leader.

The bbc.com also stated that González, who fled to Spain in September, has been rallying international support while facing an arrest warrant issued by the Maduro government, which has offered $100,000 for information leading to his capture.

The inauguration, marked by tight security, excluded most Venezuelan media outlets and barred foreign journalists from entering the country. Maduro remains internationally isolated, with only a handful of allies such as Iran, China, and Russia. Leaders from Cuba and Nicaragua were the sole foreign dignitaries to attend his swearing-in ceremony.

The contested election and subsequent developments have left Venezuela in a deepening political crisis. Maduro’s government, backed by the country’s National Electoral Council (CNE), has faced growing resistance both domestically and abroad.

Opposition figures, including former presidential candidate María Corina Machado, continue to be targeted by the regime. Machado, barred from running and now in hiding, has not been seen publicly since August.

Source: bbc.com

Trump Sentenced to Penalty-Free ‘Unconditional Discharge’ in Hush Money Case

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Trump Sentenced to Penalty-Free ‘Unconditional Discharge’ in Hush Money Case

Donald Trump was sentenced on Friday by a New York judge to an “unconditional discharge” in connection with his hush money case, marking him as a convicted felon under New York state law. However, the sentence carries no further penalties.

Speaking remotely from his Florida home, Trump described the experience as “terrible” and reiterated his innocence, stating, “It was done to damage my reputation so I would lose the election.” Trump, who will be sworn in as the 47th U.S. president in 10 days, maintained that he had “done nothing wrong.”

The sentencing, which was scheduled after multiple unsuccessful appeals by Trump’s legal team, followed a 5-4 ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court late Thursday, declining to block the proceedings. The case stems from Trump’s conviction on 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records connected to a hush money payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election.

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass recommended an “unconditional release” given the unique circumstances of Trump’s upcoming presidential inauguration. Steinglass criticized Trump for undermining the legal process throughout the case, especially with frequent verbal attacks on judges and prosecutors.

Trump’s attorney, Todd Blanche, countered that the charges were politically motivated and legally flawed. He stated that the Manhattan district attorney’s office overstepped its bounds and that the case was part of an agenda to target Trump. Blanche promised that Trump would fully appeal the conviction.

Judge Juan Merchan, who presided over the case, remarked that the circumstances of the case were “unique” and “remarkable.” Despite his earlier suggestion that Trump would likely face an unconditional discharge, Merchan condemned the former president for his conduct and continuous attacks on the judicial system.

Trump is set to make history as the only U.S. president to face criminal charges, though the conviction will not result in immediate penalties. Trump’s actions in the case, including repeated violations of a gag order, were also highlighted by Merchan.

The case, which revolves around Trump’s involvement in the payment to Daniels, is one of several criminal cases Trump faces. He is also involved in a paused state case in Georgia related to 2020 election interference.

US House Votes to Sanction International Criminal Court Over Israel Arrest Warrants

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US House Votes to Sanction International Criminal Court Over Israel Arrest Warrants

The U.S. House of Representatives voted on Thursday to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) in response to its arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over their involvement in Israel’s Gaza campaign.

The vote passed with a 243-140 majority in favor of the “Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act,” which would sanction foreign individuals who investigate, arrest, detain, or prosecute U.S. citizens or nationals from allied countries, including Israel, who are not members of the ICC.

Forty-five Democrats joined 198 Republicans in supporting the bill, while no Republican opposed it. Representative Brian Mast, Republican chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, called the court a “kangaroo court” seeking to arrest Israel’s prime minister, emphasizing the strong U.S. backing for Israel.

This vote highlights the continued support for Israel within the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, particularly as President-elect Donald Trump’s allies assert their position in Congress.

The ICC did not immediately comment on the vote. The Trump administration previously imposed sanctions on the ICC in 2020, in response to investigations into alleged war crimes in Afghanistan. These sanctions were lifted by the Biden administration, but Secretary of State Antony Blinken indicated in May 2024 that the U.S. may consider re-imposing sanctions over the ICC’s pursuit of arrest warrants for Israeli leaders.

The newly passed sanctions also target individuals who assist the ICC in its work. ICC President Judge Tomoko Akane warned in December that such sanctions could undermine the court’s operations and jeopardize its existence.

Trump, who is set to begin his second term on January 20, is expected to sign the sanctions bill into law, with Senate Republican leader John Thune promising swift consideration of the measure in his chamber.

The ICC, which prosecutes war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and aggression, has defended its actions, stating that the arrest warrants were issued based on a thorough investigation and sufficient evidence. The court’s decision to pursue the warrants has sparked backlash from Republicans, who accuse the Israeli officials of war crimes in the ongoing Gaza conflict, which Israel denies.

US to Return $52.88 Million in Assets Forfeited by Former Nigerian Oil Minister

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US to Return $52.88 Million in Assets Forfeited by Former Nigerian Oil Minister

The United States and Nigeria signed an agreement on Friday to repatriate $52.88 million in assets forfeited by Diezani Alison-Madueke, Nigeria’s former oil minister, and her associates.

This agreement marks the first repatriation of assets outside Nigeria related to Alison-Madueke. Nigerian Justice Minister Lateef Fagbemi confirmed that the funds are linked to the forfeiture of the Galactica assets, which were tied to Alison-Madueke and her associates.

The repatriation follows a civil complaint filed by the U.S. Justice Department in 2017, seeking to recover $144 million in assets allegedly obtained through bribery. The lawsuit claimed that two Nigerian businessmen conspired with others to bribe Alison-Madueke, who served as Minister of Petroleum Resources and oversaw the state-owned oil company, NNPC Ltd.

Alison-Madueke, whose current location is unclear but was last reported to be in Britain, has denied any involvement in corruption. She served as oil minister under former President Goodluck Jonathan from 2010 to 2015.

The repatriated funds will be used to support rural electrification projects in Nigeria. According to Fagbemi, $50 million will be allocated to increasing access to renewable energy, while the remaining $2.88 million will be granted to the International Institute for Justice to enhance counter-terrorism efforts across Africa.

In October 2022, a Nigerian court ordered the final seizure of two properties and cars owned by Alison-Madueke.

Chad Investigates Foiled Attempt to Storm Presidential Compound

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Chad Investigates Foiled Attempt to Storm Presidential Compound

Chad’s public prosecutor confirmed on Thursday that a foiled attack on the presidential compound in the capital, N’Djamena, was carried out by a group of two dozen armed individuals. The attackers, described as “ill-intentioned,” were neutralized by security forces.

The incident unfolded on Wednesday night, when bursts of gunfire were heard near the presidential office. The military responded by blocking surrounding streets. The government later stated that the attack was part of an attempt to destabilize the country but assured that the situation was under control.

The foiled attack comes at a sensitive time for Chad, which recently ended its defense cooperation pact with France, its long-time Western ally in the fight against Islamist militants in the Sahel region. The region has faced insurgencies from groups linked to Islamic State, al-Qaeda, and Boko Haram for over a decade.

According to the public prosecutor, the 24 armed assailants approached the presidential palace on Wednesday evening, feigned a breakdown, and attacked security guards at the gate. Two guards were killed, and five others were injured. Security forces killed 18 of the attackers and wounded six, who were taken to the hospital.

Investigations are ongoing to identify the masterminds and accomplices of the attack. Abderaman Koulamallah, government spokesperson, mentioned that the attackers appeared intoxicated and disorganized, carrying only knives and machetes, and suggested it was “probably not” a terrorist act.

While the exact motive remains unclear, security sources speculated that the attack might be linked to jihadist groups, ethnic tensions, or the ongoing conflict in neighboring Sudan. However, it is still too early to draw conclusions.

On Thursday morning, N’Djamena returned to calm, though military forces continued to block access to neighborhoods around the presidential palace. President Mahamat Idriss Deby, who took power after the death of his father, long-time president Idriss Deby, is facing high tensions in the country.

Enrica Picco, an expert at Crisis Group, noted that the swift response by security forces indicated that the presidency was on high alert due to the presence of numerous enemies seeking to challenge or replace Deby’s administration.

Nigeria’s EFCC Arrests Four Chinese Nationals, 101 Nigerians for Suspected Internet Fraud in Abuja

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Nigeria’s EFCC Arrests Four Chinese Nationals, 101 Nigerians for Suspected Internet Fraud in Abuja

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested four Chinese nationals and 101 Nigerians in connection with suspected internet fraud at a business apartment in the Gudu area of Abuja.

The EFCC confirmed the arrests on Thursday, January 9, 2025, via a tweet on its official X handle. The suspects, which include 67 males (four Chinese nationals) and 38 females, are alleged to have been involved in a hotel review job scam targeting victims and hotels in Europe and other parts of the world.

The commission stated that the suspects would face charges in court upon completion of the ongoing investigation.

In recent months, the EFCC has intensified its efforts to combat internet fraud and other forms of corruption. In October 2024, the commission secured convictions of 10 individuals for internet-related offenses, including fraud, impersonation, and employment scams.

Additionally, the EFCC carried out its largest single-day crackdown on cryptocurrency and romance scam syndicates in December 2024, arresting 792 suspects in Lagos. The raid saw 158 foreigners and 634 Nigerians apprehended.

The EFCC also revealed that it dismissed 27 of its officers in 2024 for misconduct and fraudulent activities. This followed recommendations from the EFCC Staff Disciplinary Committee, which were ratified by EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede.

The commission is also investigating a $400,000 claim made by an unidentified individual alleging misconduct involving a Sectional Head at the EFCC.

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Benin Army Suffers Significant Losses in Northern Attack

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Benin Army Suffers Significant Losses in Northern Attack

Benin’s armed forces sustained heavy casualties during an attack on one of their most fortified military positions in the north, where troops have been battling cross-border incursions by Islamist militants. 

Colonel Faizou Gomina, the national guard’s chief of staff, acknowledged the severity of Wednesday’s attack in a statement on Thursday but did not provide specific details about the death toll or the exact location. 

However, Benin’s main opposition party, The Democrats, reported that around 30 soldiers were killed in the Alibori department, a region bordering Niger and Burkina Faso—countries grappling with persistent insurgencies by groups linked to Islamic State and al-Qaeda. 

“This is a very hard blow for us,” Colonel Gomina admitted in his statement, calling on military leaders to reassess their strategies. 

“The position attacked yesterday was one of the strongest and most militarized,” Gomina said. “Wake up, officers and section chiefs. We have battles to win.” 

The colonel urged commanders to enhance their leadership and tactics to address the growing threat posed by militant groups in the region. 

Benin and its coastal neighbor Togo have experienced an uptick in attacks over recent years, as Islamist groups expand their activities beyond the central Sahel region into West Africa’s northern coastal states. 

Both countries are working to curb the spread of violence, which has escalated due to cross-border raids and the shifting operations of insurgent groups. 

This latest attack underscores the challenges faced by Benin’s military as it tries to bolster security in a region plagued by instability and violence. 

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