Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani will sign a security deal and a strategic partnership accord with Britain during his visit to London amid regional upheaval in the Middle East.

President-elect Donald Trump spoke positively about Democratic Sen. John Fetterman after their meeting at Mar-a-Lago. Fetterman is the first Democratic senator to meet with Trump at his Florida property. Trump won Pennsylvania in the 2024 election after losing the state to President Joe Biden in 2020.

Israeli soldiers are refusing to continue fighting in Gaza, citing ethical concerns and calling for others to join their movement.

Oil prices rise to four-month high on expectations of wider U.S. sanctions on Russian oil, forcing China and India to seek other suppliers.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has cautioned against economic 'fatalist instincts' associated with Donald Trump's presidency. McDonald emphasised the need for a strong dialogue and partnership between Ireland and the US, and expressed hope that the relationship will not be entirely negative. She also called for the United States to stop arming the Israeli regime and urged a ceasefire in Gaza.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will host Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian this week to sign a broad partnership pact between Moscow and Tehran. The leaders will discuss plans for expanding trade and cooperation in various areas.

Israeli far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich opposes Gaza war deal, while Foreign Minister Gideon Saar states that Israel is working hard to secure a deal for the release of hostages.

The US government has introduced new regulations to restrict the export of AI chips and technology to most countries, while allowing unlimited access for its closest allies. The rules aim to maintain US dominance in AI and limit China's access.

Middle East oil benchmarks have reached a 15-month high due to strong demand from Asia and U.S. sanctions on Russian producers and tankers.

Israel and Hamas have been engaged in indirect talks for over a year to end the war in Gaza and secure the release of hostages, but the negotiations have stalled due to disagreements over the exchange, ceasefire terms, and Israeli withdrawal. The war continues to escalate, causing numerous Palestinian casualties and humanitarian concerns. The main obstacles to a ceasefire include the release of hostages, the demand for the release of Palestinian prisoners, and the lack of trust between the two sides.

Ilana Gritzewsky, a freed Israeli hostage, continues to fight for the release of her partner and other hostages held in Gaza, calling for immediate action and international pressure on Hamas and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Recruitment firm PageGroup has announced further role cuts and warned of lower profits as the jobs market weakens in Europe.

U.S. and Arab mediators have made progress in brokering a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war and the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip, but a deal has not been reached yet.

Outgoing U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has recommended a $50 billion boost in defense spending, potentially pushing the budget beyond $1 trillion in the future.

The two men vying to be prime minister have escalated their war of words over who is to blame for rising anti-Semitic crime after the latest attack on a Jewish place of worship. Specialist counter-terrorism police have been called in to catch those behind the spray-painting of swastikas and an arson attempt on Newtown Synagogue, in Sydney's inner west, on Saturday.

Talks between politicians from Turkey's pro-Kurdish party and jailed Kurdish leaders have been gathering steam as they try to end 40 years of fighting between the state and the Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK.

Firefighters in Los Angeles are working to contain wildfires that have destroyed thousands of homes and killed 24 people. Meanwhile, the California wildfires have also affected communities of Black families, potentially leading to deeper inequality.

President Biden claims his one-term presidency restored American credibility on the world stage, but his achievements may be overshadowed by the possibility of Trump's return and his protectionist worldview. Challenges such as the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan and Russia's invasion of Ukraine have tested Biden's foreign policy. Biden's relationship with Israel has been strained due to the high Palestinian death toll in the conflict with Hamas.

Goldman Sachs predicts that U.S. sanctions on Russia could push oil prices over $85 per barrel in the short-term, and potentially reach $90 per barrel if Russian output declines alongside a reduction in Iranian production.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun will begin consultations to designate a prime minister to form a government in the crisis-hit country. Names floated for the post include Najib Mikati, Fouad Makhzoumi, and Nawaf Salam. The new government will face major challenges, including implementing reforms and reconstructing the country after the war.

Council bosses in Rotherham who failed to protect young girls from grooming gangs have pursued new careers, including government advertising, banking, and executive coaching.

Aaron Kosminski, a Polish barber, is believed to be Jack the Ripper based on recent research that uncovered photos of his family and created a composite image of the suspect.

Manchester City captain Kyle Walker has asked for permission to discuss a move abroad, while his former mistress Lauryn Goodman plans to move to Dubai. Walker is considering teams in Europe, with AC Milan and Bayern Munich being potential options.

Bureau de change stores in the UK are at risk of being exploited by criminals involved in the drugs trade and organised crime.

Jamie Lee Curtis shares a touching encounter with a wildfire victim at Target amid ongoing fires in Los Angeles. The actress, who has donated $1 million to relief efforts, faced backlash for comparing the fires to war-torn countries. She is working with local officials to determine where the funds will be best used.

Financiers and lessors gather in Dublin to discuss jet shortages and trade risks at the annual Airline Economics event. Leasing companies have seen rental and resale values for jetliners rise due to increased demand and supply chain issues. Concerns remain over access to new aircraft and the potential impact of the change of power in the United States and the surging U.S. dollar on the industry.

Rachel Reeves faces pressure as UK CFOs express pessimism about their businesses, with cost control becoming a priority and hiring expectations falling to a four-year low.

Australia's passport ranks sixth in the world for most powerful passport despite being the most expensive, according to the Henley Passport Index's quarterly report.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Joe Biden discuss efforts to reach a ceasefire and hostage release deal in the Israel-Hamas war.

President Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding efforts to reach a ceasefire deal and free hostages in Gaza. The parties are close to reaching an agreement, but challenges remain. Israel's assault in Gaza has caused a humanitarian crisis, and Vice President-elect Vance expects a deal for the release of U.S. hostages to be announced soon.

This article offers a guide to the best transfer-free city breaks in Europe, highlighting convenient airports and providing information on attractions and flight options.

Pizza Express fans express their displeasure after the Calabrese pizza is removed from the menu. The chain plans to open its first US branch in Florida.

Israeli security delegation arrives in Qatar for talks on Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal.

Lebanese tennis player Hady Habib creates history by winning a men's singles match at the Australian Open, becoming the first player from Lebanon to do so in the professional era. Habib hopes to bring positivity to Lebanon through his success in tennis.

Germany urges sanctions against Syrian war crimes suspects to continue while proposing relief for the Syrian population. The US eases restrictions on Syria, and Syria's new authorities seek international support for reconstruction.

Lebanese tennis player Hady Habib creates history by winning a men's singles match at the Australian Open, becoming the first player from Lebanon to achieve this feat.

New U.S. sanctions on Russian producers and ships will disrupt Russian oil supply to China and India, leading to higher spot crude prices and freight costs. Chinese independent refiners will cut refining output, and Russian oil exports will be severely affected. China and India will seek more oil from the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas, driving up prices for these grades of oil.

Stephanie Rice, the former Olympic swimmer, has had a second wedding with her partner Mark Lassey in Perth. The couple celebrated their union with family and friends at a rooftop venue and an outdoor reception at a vineyard.

The death toll from the wildfires in Los Angeles County has risen to 16, and the fires are projected to be among the costliest natural disasters in US history.

Croatia's incumbent President Zoran Milanović is expected to win reelection in the upcoming runoff presidential vote. Milanović, an outspoken critic of Western military support for Ukraine, is the most popular politician in Croatia.

Many displaced Lebanese want to rebuild their homes, but reconstruction and compensation are slow in coming after the war between Israel and Hezbollah.

Former WNBA All-Star Liz Cambage has made more money on OnlyFans in one week than in her entire basketball career, sparking conversations about pay disparities in professional sports.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved sending the director of the Mossad foreign intelligence agency to ceasefire negotiations in Qatar.

Syria's new leader and Lebanon's prime minister have pledged to build lasting ties during the first visit by a Lebanese head of government to Damascus since the start of the civil war in 2011.

Iranian General inspects underground missile facility as tensions rise in the region.

Alec Baldwin's career has been marked by scandals, but he is now preparing for a comeback with a reality show and recent TV appearances.

Many Democrats believe it may be decades before the United States will get its first female president, according to a recent poll. The party's pessimism about the lack of a female president is shaping the search for a new leader of the Democratic National Committee.

A global risk consultant has warned that humanity should tighten its seatbelts for a very bumpy ride in 2025. In his closely-watched annual forecast, Ian Bremmer on Monday predicted a 'uniquely dangerous' time for the planet, akin to the tense 1930s and the start of the Cold War.

The stormclouds forming over the UK are more dangerous than anything we've seen in our lifetime. The public needs to be made aware of the pressing dangers and the government should establish a Ministry for Civil Defence to train millions of people in how to respond to an attack.

Kate Beckinsale pays tribute to her late stepfather on the one year anniversary of his death.

The Barbary, a new restaurant in Notting Hill, is receiving high praise for its quality and ambiance. The menu is inspired by the Barbary Coast and features dishes cooked over fire. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of wines. The Barbary is located on Westbourne Grove in London.

The rising prices of olive oil have made it a popular dinner party gift, but etiquette experts warn against it as it may imply a lack of trust in the host's pantry. Olive oil was highly valued in ancient Rome and had a small but important role in Christian and Jewish culinary history. The prejudice against olive oil in Victorian Britain was challenged in the 1950s with the introduction of the Mediterranean diet. Despite recent price increases, a bottle of olive oil remains a lovely and magical gift.

Etiquette experts weigh in on whether it's more polite to silently part ways or send a first date break up text.

Lord Nicholas Soames warns that the UK is ill-prepared for aerial, sea, and electronic attacks and calls for the establishment of a Ministry for Civil Defence to train the public in responding to threats.

A Christian 'prophet' claims that God showed him a vision of a major earthquake hitting the New Madrid fault line in the heart of America. Experts have dismissed the prediction as highly unlikely.

President Biden whistles to get press's attention in wildfire briefing

The Trump family business has released a voluntary ethics agreement that allows it to strike deals with private foreign companies, marking a departure from Donald Trump's first term.

Israel launched strikes on Huthi targets in Yemen, warning it would hunt down the group's leaders in response to missile and drone attacks. Iran condemned the strikes, while the Huthis claimed to have targeted Tel Aviv.

President Joe Biden whistled to get the attention of the press during an Oval Office briefing on the California wildfires.

Wildfires in Los Angeles destroyed multiple houses of worship, including a synagogue, a mosque, and several churches. Congregants rushed to save sacred Torah scrolls and say goodbye to their beloved places of worship. Faith leaders are finding hope in their communities and are determined to rebuild. They are providing assistance and support to those who lost their homes.

Laura Prepon and Ben Foster's temporary custody deal includes restrictions on how much alcohol they are allowed to drink around their children, per new court documents.

Switzerland seeks answers from Iran after a Swiss citizen accused of spying dies in prison.

President-elect Donald Trump will not face jail time or fines for his New York hush money conviction, but the conviction will affect some of his rights. He can still vote in Florida, but is not allowed to possess firearms. Trump will also be required to provide a DNA sample for New York's crime databank.

Lebanon's new president, Joseph Aoun, is a low-profile army chief known for his nonpartisan approach and focus on commanding the Lebanese army. His election has been met with both celebrations and controversy.

Jamie Lee Curtis faces backlash for comparing LA wildfires to war-torn countries, sparking controversy on social media.

Shares in shipbroker Clarkson rose sharply on Friday after the group told investors it expects full-year results to be slightly ahead of market forecasts.

Shipbroker Clarkson's shares surged after the company raised its full-year profit expectations. The rise in profits is attributed to turbulence in the Middle East and increased shipping traffic due to rerouting around the Suez Canal.

Archaeologists have discovered a 1,500-year-old monastery near the Israeli city of Kiryat Gat with an intricate mosaic floor that bears a Bible verse blessing all who read it.

A study published in The Lancet journal suggests that the death toll in the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza could be 40% higher than the official count due to undercounting and the deteriorating healthcare infrastructure in the region.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves' economic troubles compared to those of 1970s predecessor Denis Healey, who requested an IMF loan in 1976 amid economic and industrial strife and skyrocketing inflation. The loan helped stabilize the pound, but the decade was marked by further crises, including the Winter of Discontent in 1979. Today, concerns over the weakening pound and rising borrowing rates have raised alarm bells.

Ukraine expects high-level contact with the new U.S. administration, Austrian foreign minister becomes caretaker chancellor, South Korean leader's security chief resigns, Venezuelan President Maduro to be sworn in for third term, U.S. House votes to sanction International Criminal Court over Israel.

Indian firms anticipate disruption in Russian oil supplies as US imposes new sanctions.

Thousands of armed militia in Iran march through the streets of Tehran to show their readiness to face 'threats'.

The world's most powerful passports for 2025 have been revealed - but the US and UK have slid down the list compared to last year.

Sir Keir Starmer's 'bromance' with Emmanuel Macron was on full display last night as the Prime Minister met with the French President. In a social media video shared by Sir Keir, the two leaders were shown man-hugging, back-slapping and hand-shaking as they held talks at Chequers. The meeting came less than two weeks before Donald Trump's return as US President, with the PM and Mr Macron agreeing on a 'need for unity in uncertain times'.

A new study estimates that the death toll in Gaza from the Israel-Hamas war is 40 percent higher than previously recorded. The study used data from the health ministry, an online survey, and social media obituaries to estimate that there were between 55,298 and 78,525 deaths from traumatic injuries in Gaza. The study's best estimate was 64,260 deaths, with 59 percent of the deaths being women, children, and the elderly.

An oil tanker attacked by Yemen's Houthi rebels in the Red Sea has been salvaged, averting a potential massive oil spill. The tanker had been carrying 1 million barrels of crude oil and took months to extinguish the fires and remove the remaining oil.

Israel confirms the recovery of a hostage's body in Gaza, while an oil tanker threatened by a massive oil spill in the Red Sea has been salvaged.

Outgoing ICE director Patrick Lechleitner expressed his wish that President Biden had implemented his executive order to shut down the border earlier to control the influx of migrants. Lechleitner's remarks come after a Wall Street Journal investigation revealed limited access to the president for agency heads.

The president of a synagogue defaced with swastikas expresses fear that Australia is becoming unsafe for outwardly Jewish individuals. Political and cultural leaders condemn the attack as appalling and monstrous.

Indonesia plans to intensify defence partnerships, advocate for a South China Sea code of conduct, complete trade agreements, and support the Palestinian cause.

The 2025 Australian Open will be held in Melbourne from Jan. 12-26. Top-ranked players and defending champions will compete, and the tournament can be watched on official broadcasters globally.

Elon Musk's controversial tweets were likely to feature at last night's private dinner between Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron.

Stephanie Rice has married Mark Lassey after a whirlwind ten-month romance. The couple exchanged vows in a vineyard ceremony in Perth and celebrated with family and friends.

Russia and China are stepping up hybrid warfare activities ahead of Trump's inauguration, with Finland intercepting a ship believed to be part of Russia's 'shadow fleet' and Taiwan suspecting a Chinese crew of damaging an undersea cable.

Nazi swastikas were found scrawled across a synagogue in Sydney, shocking the Jewish community. Jewish leaders are calling for swift arrests and for hate speech and incitement to violence laws to be tightened.

Shamima Begum, an ISIS bride held in a Syrian detention camp, could be freed in the coming days after attacks on the camp's guards. The UK has refused to repatriate her or any other UK-linked ISIS members held in Syria.

Mel Gibson warns of societal collapse amid Los Angeles fires and criticizes California Governor Gavin Newsom for failing to maintain the forest.

Jesse Eisenberg's A Real Pain is a truly wonderful masterpiece, while Babygirl is a clever and racy psychosexual thriller starring Nicole Kidman.

The Metropolitan Police will prevent a pro-Palestinian march from taking place near a central London synagogue due to concerns about disruption to worshippers.

Ninette's War is a book that tells the story of a young Jewish girl and her family's experience during World War II, highlighting the dangers of rising anti-Semitism.

Poland promises Netanyahu free rein to visit for Auschwitz anniversary despite war crimes warrant

An official Palestinian tally of direct deaths in the Israel-Hamas war likely undercounted the number of casualties by 41% through the middle of 2024 as the Gaza Strip's healthcare infrastructure unravelled, according to a study published in The Lancet journal.

French President Macron and UK's Starmer discuss Ukraine, Middle East, and UK-EU relationship.

Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman is meeting with President-elect Donald Trump, defying party lines and drawing criticism from liberals.

Lebanon's lawmakers elect army chief Joseph Aoun as president, ending a two-year vacancy in the position.