President Mahmoud Abbas has signed a decree that will likely bar Hamas from participating in upcoming municipal elections. The new law requires candidates to accept the Palestine Liberation Organization's policies, a move seen as consolidating Fatah's control. The April vote is expected to feature mainly Fatah and independent candidates.

BioProtect, an Israeli medical device company, is set to be acquired for $200 million by a strategic investor. The company developed an implant to protect healthy tissue during radiation therapy and recently received regulatory approval. Almeda Ventures, a minority stakeholder, will benefit significantly from the deal.

Romania's ambassador to Israel warns that history can repeat itself amid a surge in antisemitic violence. He urges vigilance and stronger diplomatic action on Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Pune airport's 15 prime flight slots may go unused this summer due to infrastructure issues, a temporary runway closure, and IndiGo's operational challenges. Experts warn this could worsen flight shortages and keep airfares high.

Rain, thunderstorms, and cooler temperatures are forecast across Israel this week, with a risk of flash flooding near the northern Dead Sea. Conditions will gradually clear and warm toward the weekend, bringing warmer-than-usual weather.

Rotary Peace Centre at Symbiosis International University in Pune launches a fully funded global fellowship for mid-career professionals in peace and development. The programme offers comprehensive training and international exposure, with applications for the 2027 intake opening in February 2026.

A Texas senator urges the United States to arm Iranian protesters as security forces intensify crackdowns and militias threaten retaliation. The unrest has led to thousands of deaths and heightened tensions in the Middle East. Iran-backed groups warn of 'total war' if the United States intervenes.

Prime Minister Mark Carney's Davos speech has been hailed as a turning point, declaring the end of the old global order and warning of a new era of great power rivalry. His remarks have sparked global debate about the future of alliances and the risks of economic dependency. The world now faces growing uncertainty as countries reconsider their relationships with the United States.

Prime Minister Netanyahu blamed a US arms embargo for Israeli casualties in Gaza, sparking criticism from Biden administration officials. He called for Israel to build a more independent arms industry and shift its relationship with the US from aid to partnership.

President Trump has threatened to cut U.S. aid to Iraq if Nouri al‑Maliki returns as prime minister, as Saudi Arabia and the UAE refuse to support any attack on Iran. Pro‑Iranian militias in Iraq pledge support for Tehran amid rising regional tensions.

The United States has deported three former members of Iran's elite military force amid escalating tensions with Tehran. The deportation flight comes as concerns grow over human rights abuses and increased U.S. military presence near Iran.

A former Central Intelligence Agency technology chief has urged developers to build artificial intelligence with security at its core to avoid repeating the Internet's mistakes. He highlighted emerging threats and called for strong frameworks and standards. Flores also warned that future technologies like quantum computing will require even greater vigilance.