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Colombia Suspends Peace Talks with ELN Rebels, Accuses Group of War Crimes

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Colombia has suspended peace talks with the National Liberation Army (ELN) for the second time in less than a year, accusing the rebel group of being responsible for recent violence in the northeastern region of Catatumbo.

President Gustavo Petro announced the halt in negotiations on Friday, stating on his X account, “The dialogue process with this group is suspended, the ELN has no will for peace.” The suspension comes amid escalating clashes between the ELN and former members of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) in Catatumbo, a region near the Colombia-Venezuela border.

The ELN has been expanding into areas left behind by FARC after the latter’s peace deal with the government in 2016. On Thursday, a former FARC leader accused the ELN of killing at least four former rebels. Authorities have launched an investigation into additional deaths.

President Petro condemned the ELN’s actions, calling them “war crimes” but did not provide further details on the allegations. The Colombian government previously suspended peace talks with the ELN in September 2022 after blaming the group for the deaths of two soldiers.

The peace negotiations began in November 2022 when Petro, Colombia’s first leftist president, initiated talks with the ELN and other armed groups as part of his “total peace” policy. The ELN, founded in the 1960s by union leaders and university students inspired by the Cuban Revolution, is estimated to have around 6,000 fighters in Colombia and Venezuela. The group funds its activities primarily through drug trafficking and illegal gold mining.

Bolivian Judge Issues Arrest Warrant for Former President Evo Morales in Sex Abuse Case

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A Bolivian judge has issued an arrest warrant for former President Evo Morales after he failed to attend a court hearing regarding allegations of sexual abuse involving a minor. The case claims Morales, 65, had a child with a teenage girl in 2016, a relationship that would qualify as statutory rape under Bolivian law.

Judge Nelson Rocabado, speaking after a hearing in the southern region of Tarija, confirmed the warrant for Morales’ search and arrest. The alleged victim resides in this area, and Morales’ absence from court proceedings has led to increased legal pressure.

Morales, who has denied the allegations, dismissed the case as part of a “legal warfare” orchestrated by his political rival, President Luis Arce. He further claimed he was being targeted due to their growing political tensions, particularly as both leaders vie for control of Bolivia’s ruling party ahead of the August presidential elections.

In December, the Bolivian prosecutor’s office had already ordered Morales’ detention, but Friday’s warrant escalated the situation. Morales is believed to be barricaded in Chapare, his stronghold in central Bolivia, where he remains protected by security forces and the local coca growers’ union.

A group of women outside the courthouse on Friday displayed banners reading, “Evo Morales abuser, girls are not to be touched,” voicing their support for the victim.

Sandra Gutiérrez, the prosecutor handling the case, stated that they would now investigate whether Morales committed a crime by failing to appear in court. Morales’ defense team had previously cited health concerns, including bronchopneumonia and heart conditions, but the judge dismissed these excuses, asserting that the ailments were treatable.

As of now, neither Morales nor President Arce have commented publicly on the arrest order.

AI Brad Pitt Scam Leaves Woman Homeless After £700k Lost to Fraudster Posing as Actor

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A woman who fell victim to an elaborate scam involving an AI impersonating Hollywood star Brad Pitt has been left homeless and penniless after handing over nearly £700,000 for fake cancer treatment.

The victim, identified only as Anne, sent the money after being convinced she was helping the actor through a difficult divorce and health battle. A lawyer for the woman is now calling for compassion, as Anne has been subjected to intense online ridicule, leading her to delete her social media profiles.

Laurène Hanna, Anne’s Paris-based lawyer, said the situation highlights the risks of online fraud. “Anne is not the only one to fall for such a scam,” Hanna remarked. “What my client needs now is support and dignity during this difficult time.”

Anne, an interior designer, initially came into contact with the scammer after sharing photos from a lavish ski trip on Instagram. She was contacted by someone posing as Brad Pitt’s mother, followed by messages from an account claiming to be the actor himself. Over time, their relationship deepened with exchanges of love poems and frequent communication via AI-generated images and videos of Pitt, who allegedly required funds for urgent cancer treatment.

The scam escalated when “Brad” asked Anne to contribute up to £7,566 to receive gifts. He claimed that his ongoing divorce from Angelina Jolie had made him unable to access funds for the medical treatment he desperately needed. Despite some initial doubts, Anne sent the money after being reassured by the AI-generated content and text conversations.

Her suspicions were ultimately raised after seeing real photos of Brad Pitt with his new girlfriend, Ines de Ramon, in the media. The authorities have since launched an investigation into the fraud.

Anne’s mental health has suffered as a result of the scam and subsequent online attacks. She has revealed that she attempted suicide three times before seeking professional help and checking into a mental health clinic.

Two Prominent Iranian Judges Killed in ‘Planned Assassination’ in Tehran

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Two senior Iranian Supreme Court judges were shot dead in Tehran in what authorities have described as a “planned assassination.” The assailant, who had no pending legal cases according to state media, took his own life after the attack. 

The judiciary’s media office stated that the attacker carried out the killings inside a court building and attempted to escape before committing suicide. Judiciary spokesperson Asghar Jahangir confirmed that a guard was injured during the incident, according to reports from the Mizan News Agency. 

The victims, Judge Mohammad Moghiseh and Judge Ali Razini, were long-serving justices known for their roles in high-profile cases involving political activists, artists, and protesters. 

Judge Moghiseh had faced international sanctions for his judicial actions. The United States sanctioned him in 2019, accusing him of overseeing trials marked by unsubstantiated charges and the dismissal of evidence. The European Union had imposed sanctions on him earlier in 2011. 

Moghiseh was known for issuing harsh sentences, including sentencing eight Iranian Facebook users to a combined 127 years in prison for alleged anti-regime activities and religious insults. He also convicted filmmakers, poets, and activists on charges of “propaganda against the state.” In 2019, he sentenced prominent human rights lawyer and women’s rights activist Nasrin Sotoudeh to 33 years in prison and 148 lashes, according to Amnesty International. 

Judge Razini had previously survived a 1999 assassination attempt when a bomb was attached to his vehicle. He was also accused of being part of the infamous “Death Commission,” a committee that oversaw the mass execution of thousands of political prisoners in 1988. 

The incident highlights growing tensions and raises questions about security within Iran’s judiciary. 

Pakistani Court Sentences Ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan and Wife in Corruption Case

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A Pakistani court on Friday sentenced former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife to 14 and seven years in prison, respectively, after finding them guilty in a high-profile corruption case, according to officials and Khan’s lawyer. 

The couple was accused of accepting land as a gift from real estate tycoon Malik Riaz in exchange for laundered money during Khan’s tenure as prime minister. Prosecutors alleged that Riaz used funds—amounting to £190 million ($240 million)—returned to Pakistan by British authorities in 2022 to pay fines imposed on him in an unrelated case. Instead of depositing the money into the national exchequer, the funds were allegedly misused in the deal involving Khan and his wife. 

Khan has consistently denied any wrongdoing, describing the charges as politically motivated efforts by his rivals to block his return to office. Since his arrest in 2023, he has maintained that the cases against him are part of a broader conspiracy. 

The verdict comes after Khan’s earlier convictions in three other cases, including corruption, revealing official secrets, and violating marriage laws. He received sentences of 10, 14, and seven years in those cases. However, under Pakistani law, his sentences will be served concurrently, with the longest sentence determining the total duration. 

Imran Khan, who was removed from office in April 2022 through a no-confidence vote in parliament, continues to face mounting legal challenges as his political future remains uncertain. 

Magic Bus’ Survives Southern California Wildfires

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Amid the devastation caused by Southern California wildfires, a bright blue vintage Volkswagen van has become a symbol of resilience. The van, nicknamed “Azul,” emerged unscathed in a Malibu neighborhood devastated by flames. 

The 1977 van belongs to surf and skateboard designer Megan Krystle Weinraub, who expressed disbelief at its survival. “I just can’t believe my bus is the only thing that survived on the street I walked every day with my dog,” Weinraub told CNN. 

Weinraub named the van “Azul,” the Spanish word for “blue.” The van was previously owned by her friend Preston Martin, who lived in it for a year. Just days before the fires, the pair had taken Azul on a surfing trip in Malibu. Martin described the van as a beacon of hope, marveling at how it remained untouched while everything around it was destroyed. 

Time Out has released its list of the world’s 50 best cities for 2025, naming Cape Town, South Africa, as the top destination. With its breathtaking natural beauty, colorful architecture, and a unique penguin colony, Cape Town stands out as a must-visit location for travelers. 

Other cities on the list include Lisbon, Amsterdam, and Barcelona, which are already beloved tourist destinations. However, cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Almaty, and Pittsburgh have also gained attention for their unique offerings. Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant commercial hub of Vietnam, offers chaotic charm. Almaty, Kazakhstan’s former Soviet-era metropolis, is emerging as a cultural hotspot. Pittsburgh, often referred to as the “Paris of Appalachia,” is known for its striking Golden Age architecture and warm hospitality. 

Two of the world’s largest religious events are set to attract massive crowds in 2025. In Rome, over 35 million visitors are expected for the Catholic Jubilee, a year-long celebration that provides pilgrims with the opportunity to walk through the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Preparations are already underway in the Eternal City. 

In India, the Maha Kumbh Mela, recognized as the world’s largest religious festival, will take place in Prayagraj. This awe-inspiring event is expected to draw 400 million people as pilgrims gather to bathe in the sacred waters where three holy rivers meet. 

Netanyahu: No Ceasefire Without Hostage List as Tel Aviv Faces Tensions

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Saturday that the proposed ceasefire with Hamas will not proceed unless the militant group provides a list of hostages set to be released. The warning comes as the Israeli government approved the ceasefire deal, scheduled to take effect Sunday at 6:30 a.m. local time.

“We will not move forward with the outline until we receive the list of hostages to be released, as agreed,” Netanyahu’s office said in a statement. “Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. The sole responsibility lies with Hamas.”

Gaza Residents Warned to Avoid Israeli Soldiers

Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee issued a warning to Gaza residents, urging them to avoid approaching Israeli soldiers in the area.

“Approaching the forces exposes you to danger,” Adraee said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. He also cautioned against traveling from southern Gaza to northern areas, citing ongoing military activity. Movement will remain restricted until further instructions are issued, he added.

Adraee further advised against accessing the Rafah border crossing or engaging in fishing and swimming, citing “great risks” to safety.

Under the terms of the ceasefire, Israeli soldiers will remain in Gaza during the first phase of the agreement. Netanyahu reiterated that progress depends on Hamas fulfilling its obligation to provide the hostage list.

The deal, brokered with international mediation, includes the release of 33 hostages held by Hamas. However, the lack of a finalized list has heightened tensions, with some Israeli officials threatening to block the agreement.

The ceasefire deal has sparked domestic criticism. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced he would resign in protest, calling the agreement a concession to Hamas. Other government ministers have also expressed dissatisfaction, potentially weakening Netanyahu’s governing coalition.

Despite the internal discord, many Israelis are urging Netanyahu to move forward with the deal. Demonstrators in Hostages Square in Tel Aviv called for the safe return of captives and emphasized the importance of securing their release.

News.Sky.com

Ski Lift Accident in Spain Leaves 30 Injured, Some Seriously

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A ski lift accident at the Astún ski resort in the Pyrenees, near the Spanish border with France, has left at least 30 people injured, including nine with very serious injuries, regional authorities said. The incident, which occurred Saturday, has also stranded approximately 80 people on the lift.

Jamie Pelegri, a skier who was on the chair lift at the time, described the moments of the collapse as “a very scary moment,” explaining that “the cable lost tension,” causing the chairs to fall. He and his wife escaped injury as they had just boarded the lift but saw others falling as high as 15 meters to the snow below.

Emergency services, including helicopters, responded to the scene. Images and videos shared on social media show injured individuals near the collapsed lift and rescue operations in progress. The Spanish Red Cross has deployed advanced life support ambulances and other vehicles to assist.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed shock over the incident, offering condolences and support to the injured and their families. Jorge Azcón, the president of the government of Aragon, announced he was traveling to the site and coordinating with emergency teams.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation. A witness reported to Spanish state broadcaster TVE that “a cable may have come loose,” leading to the chairs bouncing and dislodging riders.

A telephone hotline has been established for affected families, while emergency responders work to safely evacuate those still stranded on the ski lift.

Israel to Release Over 1,800 Palestinian Prisoners in Ceasefire Deal, Egypt Says

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Israel will release more than 1,800 Palestinian prisoners as part of the first phase of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, Egypt announced on Friday. The deal will also secure the release of 33 Israeli hostages held in Gaza.

Among those slated for release is Zakaria Zubeidi, a prominent Palestinian figure and former leader of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade in Jenin. The 49-year-old, raised in a refugee camp, has been imprisoned for charges including intentional killings, attempted murder, and planting explosives. Zubeidi was also one of six Palestinian prisoners who escaped from an Israeli jail in 2021 by digging a tunnel but was recaptured five days later.

Zubeidi is regarded as a symbol of resistance by many Palestinians, known for establishing the Freedom Theatre and Cinema in Jenin. His involvement in a 2002 gun attack in Beit She’an, where six Israelis were killed, has also been a significant part of his controversial legacy.

Egypt, a key mediator in the talks, confirmed the numbers in a statement, clarifying earlier conflicting reports about the prisoner release. Initially, reports suggested 734 detainees were slated for release, but the figure has now been updated to 1,890. This total may include Gazans detained by Israeli Defense Forces, not just prisoners held under Israel’s justice system.

The first phase of the ceasefire will last six weeks, during which 33 Israeli hostages captured by Hamas will also be freed. While the exchange ratio for hostages to prisoners remains unclear, earlier agreements involved a one-to-three exchange rate. The exact sequence of prisoner releases has not been disclosed.

Negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire, which would include the release of additional hostages and prisoners, are expected to start after the first stage is completed.

Egypt’s foreign ministry emphasized its continued commitment to mediating between Israel and Hamas to ensure the implementation of the ceasefire agreement. The North African nation has played a significant role in facilitating negotiations during the ongoing conflict, which has seen escalated tensions and violence since October 2023. The agreement follows a previous temporary truce in November, during which prisoners were exchanged for hostages under similar conditions. This latest development aims to provide a framework

UK Prime Minister Starmer Signs Historic 100-Year Partnership with Ukraine in Kyiv

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U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a landmark 100-year partnership agreement in Kyiv on Thursday, underscoring long-term support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing war with Russia. 

The treaty commits the U.K. and Ukraine to cooperate on defense, maritime security in the Baltic, Black, and Azov seas, and technology projects, including drone development. The agreement also includes mechanisms to track stolen Ukrainian grain exported from Russian-occupied territories. 

“We are with you not just today or tomorrow, but for 100 years — long after this terrible war is over and Ukraine is free and thriving once again,” Starmer said during the visit, pledging the U.K.’s role in ensuring Ukraine’s post-war security. 

Starmer’s visit comes as European allies intensify their support for Ukraine ahead of Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration as U.S. president. Trump has expressed skepticism about America’s military burden in Europe and hinted at plans to negotiate an end to the nearly three-year conflict. 

Kyiv has seen a flurry of diplomatic activity in recent days, with visits from Italy’s defense chief and Germany’s defense minister, and calls between Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron. European leaders aim to bolster Ukraine’s position before potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy under Trump. 

During Starmer’s meeting with Zelenskyy at the presidential palace, debris from Russian drones shot down by Ukrainian air defenses fell in four districts of Kyiv, including near the Baroque-style palace. Starmer described the attacks as “a reminder” of the ongoing threats faced by Ukrainians and their resilience. 

At a joint news conference, Starmer emphasized the importance of achieving a “just and lasting peace” that guarantees Ukraine’s security and independence. Discussions included Macron’s proposal for Western troops to monitor a future ceasefire, though Zelenskyy noted it is “too early to talk about details.” 

Zelenskyy also reiterated the importance of U.S. involvement in any security arrangements, describing it as “vital.” The United States remains Ukraine’s largest provider of military aid and advanced weaponry. 

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