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Iran warns U.S. troops and Israel will be targets if Washington strikes amid surging unrest

Iran’s parliament speaker warned that U.S. military assets and Israel would be “legitimate targets” if the United States launches military action over nationwide protests. The threat comes as the death toll rises and signals the risk of rapid regional escalation if outside intervention proceeds.

Source: NPR


U.S. launches new retaliatory strikes on ISIS in Syria

The Pentagon said U.S. forces, alongside partners, hit multiple Islamic State targets in Syria in the latest response to a December ambush that killed two American soldiers and a U.S. interpreter. The operation underscores a sustained campaign to degrade ISIS networks while trying to deter further attacks on U.S. personnel.

Source: Washington Post


Ukraine war: Ukrainian drones ignite Russian oil depot after Moscow unveils new hypersonic missile

Ukrainian long-range drones set fire to a Russian oil facility, a day after Russia pummeled Ukraine with hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles, including a powerful new hypersonic system. The tit-for-tat strikes highlight intensifying pressure on energy infrastructure and the evolving capabilities shaping the conflict’s next phase.

Source: NPR


Sanctioned tankers defy U.S. blockade of Venezuela, testing enforcement at sea

Satellite imagery indicates eleven sanctioned oil tankers challenged the U.S. maritime blockade, with one seized in the Caribbean and others pushing into the Atlantic. The pattern raises the risk of maritime incidents and underscores the difficulty of sealing off oil flows amid shifting regional dynamics following Washington’s action in Venezuela.

Source: Washington Post


Europe braces as Trump renews push on Greenland, moving to negotiate to avoid rupture

European officials, stunned by President Trump restating interest in Greenland, are leaning toward negotiation to manage the fallout within NATO and the EU. The Arctic move, coming on the heels of U.S. action in Venezuela, amplifies concerns over alliance cohesion and long-term Arctic security arrangements.

Source: New York Times


Berlin blackout, suspected arson, exposes critical infrastructure vulnerabilities

Germany’s capital suffered its longest power outage since World War II, with authorities pointing to deliberate arson. The incident spotlights resilience gaps in European urban infrastructure and the growing threat of physical sabotage against energy and grid assets.

Source: Washington Post


Gaza medical lifeline at risk as Israel bars aid groups’ international staff

An Israeli decision to bar Doctors Without Borders and other aid organizations is forcing Gaza clinics to rely on dwindling supplies and operate without international personnel. Humanitarians warn essential services could collapse without access, deepening an already severe crisis for civilians.

Source: NPR


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World affairs — January 11, 2026 | Briefing24