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Latest World News

đź“…January 30, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Global tensions rise with US threats on Iran, EU terror designation of IRGC, US capture of Maduro, nationwide US protests, and severe weather in Europe amid African economic shifts.
1

EU Designates Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps as Terrorist Organization

The European Union has officially designated Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist group, joining the US, Canada, and Australia. The move cites accusations of using lethal force against protesters, supplying weapons to Russia for Ukraine, and arming proxies like Hezbollah, Hamas, and Houthis.Source 1Source 5 France and Spain have signaled support for blacklisting the IRGC.Source 1

2

US Defense Secretary Signals Readiness for Action Against Iran

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the Pentagon is prepared to act on Iran if ordered by President Trump to prevent nuclear weapon development. American forces remain heavily positioned in the region amid heightened tensions following Iran's protest crackdown.Source 3 Trump is weighing options but has not approved military action yet.Source 3

3

US Forces Capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro

United States forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores, flying them out of the country. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez has become acting president as footage shows US Marine Corps strikes on key Venezuelan military sites.Source 4 The operation targeted Fort Tiuna and Generalissimo Francisco de Miranda Air Base.Source 4

4

Nationwide US Shutdown Protests Against ICE Shootings

Activists call for a national day of no school, no work, and no shopping on January 30 to protest ICE actions, including fatal shootings in Minneapolis. The movement, backed by celebrities like Edward Norton and Jamie Lee Curtis, coincides with a government funding deadline for DHS.Source 8 It builds on Minnesota's 'ICE Out' protests disrupting local routines.Source 8

5

Storm Kristin Devastates Portugal, Killing Six

Storm Kristin brought 202 km/h winds, causing six deaths and widespread havoc in Portugal. The extreme weather has led to significant disruptions across the region.Source 1 Related landslides threaten Sicily's Niscemi in Italy.Source 1

6

UK PM Starmer Meets China's Xi Jinping in Beijing

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Chinese leader Xi Jinping, the first such visit in eight years, aiming to improve relations strained by issues like spying, Hong Kong, and Ukraine. Starmer brought over 50 business executives to foster a long-term strategic partnership.Source 5 The talks focused on shared prosperity.Source 5

7

US Border Czar Vows to Restore Law and Order in Minneapolis

President Trump's border czar Tom Homan pledged to regain 'law and order' in Minneapolis amid immigration enforcement tensions. This follows protests and shootings involving ICE agents in the area.Source 1Source 8 Homan's statement addresses local opposition to federal operations.Source 1

8

Niger President Accuses France and Neighbors of Sponsoring Mercenary Attack

Niger’s President Tiani accused French President Macron, Benin’s Talon, and Côte d’Ivoire’s Ouattara of backing a failed mercenary infiltration at Niamey’s airport. The allegation heightens regional tensions in West Africa.Source 2 Burkina Faso has dissolved political parties citing violations.Source 2

9

US Withdraws from Iraq's Al-Asad Airbase After 12 Years

The United States Armed Forces formally withdrew from Iraq's Al-Asad Airbase, handing full control to Iraqi forces for the first time since 2014. The move marks a shift in Iraq-US relations amid ongoing regional conflicts.Source 4 It follows joint British-French strikes against ISIS in Syria.Source 4

10

EU and Mercosur Sign Free Trade Agreement After 25 Years

The European Union and Mercosur formally signed a long-awaited free trade agreement after 25 years of negotiations. The deal aims to boost economic ties between the blocs.Source 4 Separately, Cambodia liquidates Prince Bank over fraud links.Source 4

11

Israeli Airstrikes in Lebanon and Gaza Kill Civilians

Israel launched airstrikes in Lebanon, killing one in Tyre, amid ongoing Israel-Hezbollah conflict. In Gaza, multiple attacks killed 13 Palestinians, including five children.Source 4 Conflicts persist with unresolved issues on Hamas and security.Source 3Source 4

12

Kenya Inflation Eases Despite Drought-Driven Food Prices

Kenya's inflation eased in January, staying within the central bank's target despite rising food prices from drought. Ethiopia reports record wheat output of 126.69 million quintals.Source 2 Nigeria aims for full domestic defense production in five years.Source 2