In Brief: Suicide bombing in Afghanistan kills at least 103 people, Civilian death toll rises in Syria, Hundreds of Kurds killed by Turkish forces, Clashes intensify between Yemeni rebels and government forces, Pro-Russia incumbent Milos Zeman re-elected President of Czech Republic, Egyptian military arrests presidential candidates, Members of Israeli Parliament ejected for protesting Pence in support of Palestinians, Double car bombing in Libya kills 35, Russian opposition candidate Navalny arrested amid election protests, Former Brazilian President Lula loses appeal in corruption conviction, Multiple terrorist attacks kill dozens in Mali, Fire at South Korean hospital kills 37 people, U.S. plane mistakenly kills 10 Iraqi civilians, Ferry with 50 people on board disapears in Kiribati, Moderate incumbent Sauli Niinisto re-elected President of Finland.

Afghanistan

• Taliban suicide bombing in Kabul kills at least 103 people, injures 235
• At least 30 killed as gunmen storm Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul 
• Militants attack Afghan offices of children organizations killing 3
• 6 children killed in fighting in Central Afghanistan 

Syria

• 9 civilians killed in Damascus shelling 
• Death toll in Afrin climbs to 18
• U.S.-led coalition airstrikes kill 150 ISIS militants in Syria
• Opposition group to boycott Sochi conference

Turkey

• Military kills at least 260 Kurdish, ISIS fighters in Syria offensive
• 14 Turkish soldiers killed, 130 wounded in Afrin 
• Turkish offensive reportedly displaces 5,000
• Authorities detain 91, including politicians and journalists, over Syria comments
• President vows to expand Syria offensive east to Iraqi border

The United States of America

• 2 killed, 17 injured in high school shooting in Kentucky 
• Trump slaps steep U.S. tariffs on imported washers, solar panels
• Vice President Pence tells Israel U.S. Embassy to move to Jerusalem in 2019
• U.S. Diplomat quits Rohingya advisory panel in protest 
• Trump warns Davos on unfair trade, says U.S. ‘open for business’

Yemen

• At least 9 civilians killed in Saudi-led airstrike in Northern Yemen, 30 killed in 2 days
• At least 30 Africans drown off Yemen coast after boat capsizes
• Fighting between Shiite rebels and government forces kills at least 48 people
• At least 10 people killed, 80 injured as southern Yemeni separatists clash with government troops in Aden

The Czech Republic

• Pro-Russia incumbent wins Czech Presidential election
• President asks PM Babis to form new cabinet 

Palestine

• President Abbas urges the E.U. to recognize Palestine 
• E.U. assures Abbas of support, back East Jerusalem as capital
• Trump threatens to withhold aid until Palestine returns to peace talks 

Poland

• Polish government pressured to act following report on neo-Nazis

Spain

• Former Catalan leader to ask judge’s permission to attend parliament 
• Prime Minister seeks to challenge Puigdemont candidacy to form government 

Vietnam

• Authorities jail former oil executive in high-profile corruption case 

Liberia

• George Weah sworn-in as President, says he will end corruption

Japan

• Tokyo holds first North Korean missile attack drill
• 1 killed as avalanche engulfs skiers after volcano erupts near resort
• Tokyo based cryptocurrency exchange hacked, loses $530 million
• Foreign minister hopes to improve ties with China 

Pakistan

• Principal shot dead by student over blasphemy dispute 
• Authorities arrest child murder suspect
• Government condemns U.S. drone strike inside Pakistani territory

Germany

• Government suspends plans to upgrade tanks used by Turkey
• Plane and helicopter mid-air collision kills 4 
• Student killed by classmate in Dortmund
• Far-right politician resigns, converts to Islam 

Mexico

• Uber drive shot dead in Tijuana 

Iran

• Fire at factory in Southern Iran kills 3
• Authorities detain ISIS-linked fighters along western border
• Revolutionary Guards clash with ISIS in Western Iran

Saudi Arabia

• Saudi-led airstrike on Yemen kills 7 civilians, including 5 children
• Prince Alwaleed bin Talal released from corruption investigation

Bangladesh

• Start of Rohingya refugees return to Myanmar delayed

The United Arab Emirates

• House fire kills 7 children 

Malaysia

• Authorities arrest 2 men linked to ISIS over planned attacks 

Zimbabwe

• Cholera kills 4 in Southwest Zimbabwe 
• President orders top officials to declare assets

France

• Prison guards protest nationwide after attacks by inmates
• 27 injured in school bus crash in Southwest France
• Fisherman block ports in protest against pulse fishing 
• President Macron urges more E.U. sanctions on Venezuela over ‘shift to authoritarianism’
• Nearly 1,500 evacuated in Paris region as rising Seine poses flood risk 

Egypt

• Military arrests presidential hopeful, calls off campaign
• President Sisi launches re-election bid
• Prominent member of opposition attacked 
• Italian graduate student murdered over research on Egypt’s independent trade unions 
• Opposition figures ask for boycott of presidential vote

Israel

• Members of Israeli Parliament ejected for protesting Pence in support of Palestinians 
• Israeli pilots refuse to fly deported Africans, claim they would be flying ‘refugees to their death’
• Audio emerges of Netanyahu’s wife raging over media story
• Israel and Poland clash over proposed Polish Holocaust law

Guatemala

• President Morales dismisses criticism for excessive spending 
• At least 8 killed, 15 injured in bus crash

Switzerland

• Swiss marchers protest against Trump, break through Davos security cordon

Libya

• Double car bombing kills at least 35 people in Benghazi

Costa Rica

• Evangelical candidate now front-runner in presidential race

Venezuela

• President Maduro set to run for re-election in 2018 vote
• Constituent Assembly calls for early elections 

Russia

• Russia proposes U.N. inquiry into chemical attacks in Syria 
• U.S. hits Russian deputy minister and energy firms with sanctions 
• Opposition leader Navalny arrested amid election protests 

Belgium

• Police shoot man armed with knife at station in Ghent

India

• Prime Minister Modi defends globalization at Davos summit 

Ethiopia

• Security forces kill protesters for singing anti-government songs

Sweden

• Sweden demands immediate release of citizen detained in China 

Nigeria

• Up to 33,000 Cameroonians cross into Nigeria’s Cross River State

Brazil

• Judge upholds President Lula’s corruption conviction 
• Former President vows to run for President despite conviction
• At least 14 killed in shooting at Fortaleza dance club 

North Korea

• U.S. sanctions people, firms, ships for aiding North Korean army industry

Uruguay

• Farmers hold mass protest over high costs, demand more government support for their industry 

Colombia

• Bomb attack kills at least 3 police officers, injures 14
• Officials evict over 200 homeless Venezuelans from field in Cucuta 
• President says he will not recognize Venezuelan election
• Ex-guerilla leader launches historic presidential bid 
• 2 police officers killed in bombings near Caribbean 

Italy

• Train derails near Milan, 3 dead, many injured 
• Police arrest 31 in Rome on suspicion of mafia activity 
• Around 800 migrants rescued in Mediterranean, 2 bodies recovered

Cameroon

• Gunmen cross from Nigeria, attack border post 

Mali

• Civilian vehicle blown up by mine in Central Mali, 26 killed
• 14 killed in Islamic militant attack on army camp in Northern Mali
• Gunmen kill 3 soldiers in Northern Mali 

China

• Officials engage in takeover of Tibetan Buddhist monastery, will put Communist Party in charge
• China to develop Arctic shipping routes opened by global warming 

South Korea

• Fire at hospital kills 37, injures more than 140

Ukraine

• 4 people killed in helicopter crash 

Algeria

• Army kills 7 armed men in Khenchela province
• Military kills 8 Islamic extremists in Eastern Algeria 

Cambodia

• Court sentences two environment activists to a year in jail for filing sand export activity 

Canada

• Two Canadian politicians resign amid misconduct allegations

Honduras

• Honduras President sworn-in for second term as protests erupt
• New national police chief helped cartel move cocaine 

Iraq

• U.S. plane mistakenly kills 10 friendly Iraqi forces and civilians in Western Anbar 

Kiribati

• Ferry with 50 people on board goes missing 

Cyprus

• President set to face communist in runoff presidential election

Finland

• Moderate Incumbent Niinisto re-elected President in first round 

New Zealand

• 7 rescued from life raft in Pacific Ocean after ferry sank 

Peru

• Approval rating for President falls to 19% after Fujimori pardon

Denmark

• Lawmakers agree to hike military spending, cites Russia threat

South Africa

• Cape Town residents warned to ‘save water as if your life depends on it’

Jordan

• U.S. delivers helicopters to bolster Jordan’s border defenses

Follow @TheZenCorner on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for Breaking News.

PS: Subscribe to the newsletter to receive it directly by email. 

In Brief: ISIS suicide bombings in Iraq kill 38 people, Turkish forces attack U.S. backed Kurdish forces in Syria, At least 18 dead in attack on hotel in Afghanistan, U.S. Government shuts down as spending bill fails in Senate, Social Democrats agree to coalition negotiations with Merkel, U.S. withholds $65 million in Palestinian aid, At least 20 dead as clashes shutdown airport in Libya,  4 Pakistani soldiers killed by Indian forces near Kashmir border, North and South Korea agree to form first unified Olympic team, Suspected Boko Haram suicide bombers kill 12 in Nigeria, Tens of thousands protest against corruption in Romania, Bus fire kills 52 Uzbeks traveling to Kazakhstan.

Iraq

• Twin ISIS suicide bombings in Baghdad kill 38 people 

Turkey

• Turkish forces attack Syria’s Afrin province, air strikes kill at least 9
• Government vows to ‘drown’ U.S. backed Syrian Kurdish force
• Turkish troops enter Kurdish territory in Northern Syria
• Avalanche kills 5 soldiers, injures 12 
• 3 killed in a military plane crash during training
• Police detains 5 activists 
• Bus crash kills 11 in Northwestern Turkey

Russia

• Russian military conducts missile drills
• Government slams U.S. demands for Iran, calls them ‘deplorable’
• Police search opposition leader Navalny’s HQ in St. Petersburg 
• Military ships air defense missile system to China
• 12 wounded in knife attack at school 
• Teenage attacks schoolmates with an ax, injures 6

Afghanistan

• Gunmen attack Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul, at least 18 dead

United States of America

• Government shutdown begins as spending bill fails in Senate
• Trump administration bars Haitians for U.S. visas for low-skilled work 
• U.S. plans open-ended presence in Syria

Germany

• Social Democrats agree to coalition negotiations with Merkel
• 48 injured in school bus accident
• Authorities conduct searches on 10 suspected Iranian spies
• At least 8 killed in storm

Japan

• Public TV sends mistaken North Korean missile alert

The United Kingdom

• Airforce scrambles 2 fighters to intercept Russian jets
• Theresa May offers France more money for border security
• Northern Ireland to launch new bid to restore developed government 

Spain

• 7 migrants found dead near Spanish island
• Catalan parliament reconvenes, elects pro-secession speaker
• Catalan ex-president to risk arrest, travel to Denmark

Switzerland

• Skier dies after falling 100 feet near Grindelwald

Indonesia

• Jakarta Stock Exchange floor collapses, at least 80 injured
• President Widodo to reshuffle cabinet

Tunisia

• Security forces kill top aide of Al Qaeda leader
• 850 protesters arrested in anti-austerity demonstrations

Venezuela

• Opposition leader, 6 others die in security forces raid

Greece

• Parliament approves more bailout reforms
• Police fires tear gas at protesters outside Parliament
• Greeks rally over name dispute with neighbor Macedonia

Palestine

• U.S. withholds $65 million in Palestinian aid
• Man killed for throwing rocks at Israeli troops in the West Bank 
• Teenager to be held until end of Israeli military trial
• Gunman killed in Israeli raid in the West Bank

Libya

• At least 20 dead as clashes shut airport in Tripoli
• 1,400 migrants rescued at sea, 2 bodies recovered

Pakistan

• 4 Pakistani soldiers killed by Indian forces near Kashmir border
• Clerics issue fatwa against suicide bombings
• Gunmen kill 2 women working to eradicate police

India

• Israeli PM visits India, pushed for free trade deal
• Military test-fires missiles amid perceived threats from China and Pakistan
• Avalanche kills Swedish skier in Kashmir  
• Fire at warehouse near New Delhi kills 17 people

Israel

• Military puts tunnel dug under Gaza border on display
• Hezbollah accuses Israel of Sidon bombing 

North Korea

• North and South Korea agree to form first unified Olympic team, will march together
• Orchestra to perform in South Korea during Olympics

United Arab Emirates

• Authorities claim Qatari fighter jets intercepted civilian flights
• UAE to complain to U.N. over Qatar warplanes

Iran

• Authorities free 440 people arrested during protests 

Syria

• Syrian Army to end U.S. presence in the country
• Government forces capture Idlib air base
• Syria threatens to down Turkish jets over its Kurdish regions

Belgium

• Explosion kills 2 in Antwerp, terrorism ruled out

Nigeria

• Authorities release 244 Boko Haram suspects after rehabilitation 
• Suspected Boko Haram suicide bombers kill 12, wound 48 in Maiduguri 
• Kidnappers abduct 4, kill 2 police officers 

Colombia

• Bridge collapse kills 9 workers in Central Colombia
• Army helicopter crash kills 10
• Two former FARC fighters killed after campaigning in Antioquia
• Landslide pushes bus into ravine killing at least 13

Denmark

• Government to increase defense spending to counter Russia
• Danish inventor charged with killing reporter on his submarine 

Romania

• Prime Minister Tudose resigns after losing party’s support
• President names European lawmaker Dancila as PM-designate 
• More than 10,000 stage anti-corruption protest in Bucharest 

France

• Government abandons plans to build new airport in the West
• Macron pledges big increase in defense budget 
• Magistrates dismiss sex abuse case against French soldiers in Africa
• Foreign Minister to visit Iran after Trump ultimatum on Iran nuclear deal

Chile

• On visit, Pope Francis begs forgiveness for sex abuse by priests 
• Pope urges end to Chile’s Mapuche conflict

Kosovo

• Serb politician gunned down in Northern Kosovo, police start manhunt 

Czech Republic

• Lawmakers lift immunity for PM Babis over fraud claims 
• Government quits after confidence vote
• At least 2 dead, dozens hurt in Prague hotel fire

Bangladesh

• Bangladesh agrees with Myanmar to complete Rohingya return in two years

Sudan

• Sudanese police fire tear gas, arrest protesters in Khartoum 
• Authorities detain Reuters, AFP reporters in Khartoum 

China

• China accuses U.S. warship of violating its sovereignty 
• Hong Kong democracy leader jailed for 2014 protest 
• China detains rights lawyer critical of President Xi Jinping

Thailand

• Hundreds of police block anti-junta march
• Bomb at market in southern Yala kills 3, injures 18

Yemen

• Saudi Arabia to transfer $2 billion to Yemen after urgent plea
• Germany halts further arms export to parties in Yemen war

Ethiopia

• Ethiopia releases top opposition figure from prison
• Police kill 5 at religious festival in Waldiya 

The Netherlands

• Dutch government tells highest Eritrean diplomat to leave

Guatemala

• President reshuffles cabinet halfway through term

The Philippines

• Justice Department orders investigation into news site that angered President Duterte
• Government halts sending workers to Kuwait over deaths, abuse
• Troops clash with pro-ISIS militants, 6 injured

Uganda

• President Museveni accuses U.N. of ‘preserving terrorism’ in Eastern Congo
• Uganda may reintroduce executions

Bulgaria

• Government faces no-confidence vote over corruption

Myanmar

• Police shoot dead 7 protesters in Rakhine 

Mexico

• At least 33 human skulls found in Western Mexico
• Train crashes in Mexico City suburb, killing at least 5
• Opposition Senator quits party to join leftist presidential frontrunner

Kenya

• Explosive kills 4 children grazing livestock

Brazil

• Tourists warned of Sao Paulo yellow fever
• Car plows through Copacabana sidewalks, kills baby, injures 15

Italy

• Parliament approves military mission in Niger, sends more troops to North Africa 
• Authorities break up Chinese crime ring involved in drugs, prostitution

Kazakhstan

• Bus fire kills 52 Uzebks traveling to Kazakhstan

Niger

• Suspected Boko Haram attack kills at least 4 soldiers

Zimbabwe

• President Mnangagwa announces election in 4 to 5 months
• Opposition leader Roy Bennett killed in U.S. helicopter crash
• Authorities fire more than 30 police commanders
• Ruling party fires 11 Mugabe allies from parliament 

Somalia

• General shot dead in Mogadishu, deputy arrested for murder 
• U.S. backed Somalia commandos kill 4 al Shabab militants 
• Authorities say troops rescue 32 children from ‘terrorist school’

Cambodia

• PM Hun Sen appoints son-in-law as deputy national police chief

South Africa

• Cape Town slashes water use amid drought
• ANC to force President Zuma to quit as President

New Zealand

• Prime Minister Ardern pregnant with first child 

Jordan

• Israel apologizes for deaths of two Jordanians at embassy 

Saudi Arabia

• Saudi cleric killed in rural Eastern Guinea after preaching 
• Yemen’s Houthis fire ballistic missile towards Saudi Arabia 

Peru

• Pope Francis urges hope in visit to Peru area devastated by floods

Egypt

• President Sisi to run for second term in March election 

Honduras

• U.S. charges Honduran congressman with drug trafficking conspiracy
• At least 1 killed in protests over disputed Presidential election

Congo

• Security forces kill 6 while dispersing anti-Kabila protest 

Australia

• Train hits barrier in Sydney, at least 15 injured

Follow @TheZenCorner on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for Breaking News.

PS: Subscribe to the newsletter to receive it directly by email. 

Economy:

Health Care:

Immigration: 

Trade:

Judiciary:

Foreign Policy:

Conclusion:

In Brief: U.S. President to expel 200,000 Salvadoreans, Hundreds of migrants die near Libyan coast, Syrian Government kill dozens of civilians, Thousands protest for higher wages in Tunisia, Myanmar army admits to killing Rohingya Muslims, North Korea agrees to join Winter Olympics in South Korea, 7 killed as bomb targets police in Pakistan, Incumbent Czech President to face run-off after winning first round of Presidential election, ELN rebels resume fire after ceasefire with Colombian Government ends, Suicide bombing in Iraq kills 8, Israel approves construction of 352 new settler homes in the West Bank, Oil tanker sinks off Chinese coast killing all 32 crew members.

The United States of America

• Trump gives 200,000 Salvadoreans deadline to leave U.S.
• US Army soldier dies at base in Kosovo 
• Mudslides triggered by heavy rain kill at least 17, up to 43 missing
• Trump says open to talks with North Korea
• VP Pence to lead U.S. delegation to Winter Olympics
• Trump cancels trip to Great Britain, blames Obama 
• U.S. ambassador to Panama resigns, says cannot serve Trump
• Trump approves Iran nuclear deal, says it will be last time if deal is not re-negotiated
• African Union demands apology from Trump after offensive comments
• Top U.S. diplomat for refugees to quit post
• False ballistic missile alert sparks Hawaii panic 
• Trump calls on Pentagon, diplomats to sell more weapons

Libya

• As many as 64 migrants dead in Mediterranean boat sinking 
• At least 50 migrants missing off Libyan coast
• U.N. endorses elections by end of 2018
• Suspected ISIS bomber surrenders at Libyan checkpoint prior to attack
• 81 migrants arrested, will face deportation

Syria

• Government attack in rebel-held territory kills at least 40
• Israeli missiles target Damascus military outposts
• Government forces capture 14 villages from rebels 
• U.N. says Syrian forces have killed 85 civilians in 2018 
• Insurgents launch counter-offensive in northwest Syria
• Chlorine gas attack carried out on the outskirts of Damascus 

The United Kingdom

• Northern Ireland minister quits as PM May shuffles Cabinet 
• Foreign minister says Jerusalem should be shared capital of Israel and Palestine
• Britain sends frigate to escort Russian ships through English channel
• U.K. refuses Ecuador request to grant Assange diplomatic status
• Foreign minister challenges U.S. to find better alternative to Iran Deal
• Spain and U.K. hold first talks on Brexit’s fallout in Gibraltar 
• UKIP leader’s girlfriend suspended over racist remarks about Meghan Markle 

Turkey

• Turkey to extend state of emergency for another 3 months 
• Parliament strips pro-Kurdish lawmaker of her status for second time 
• Turkey to end extraditions to U.S. unless cleric Gulen is turned over
• President Erdogan calls on Putin to end northern Syria attacks by regime forces
• Plane with 168 passengers skids off runway, everyone safe

Egypt

• Egypt sets March 26-28 as Presidential election date
• President Sisi wins huge parliamentary support for second term
• Mubarak’s security boss wins appeal against corruption conviction
• Former military chief of staff to run for President
• Egypt to impose curfew on parts of North Sinai
• President reshuffles government, appoints 4 new ministers 

Jordan

• Jordan arrests 17 in failed ISIS attack plot 

Bulgaria

• Businessman murdered in Sofia 
• Thousands protest in Sofia against ski area expansion
• Parliament overturns presidential veto on anti-corruption law 

Madagascar

• Cyclone kills 29, displaces thousands

South Africa

• Death toll in South Africa listeria outbreak jumps to 61
• 200 injured in commuter train crash outside Johannesburg
• 1 killed during protests at platinum producer 

Liberia

• Ruling political party expels President Johnson Sirleaf 

Mexico

• 11 dead after gun battle erupts outside beach resort in Acapulco
• Interior Minister Osorio Chong steps down
• U.S. warns of travel to 5 Mexican states 
• Journalist murdered in Tamaulipas 
• 9 bodies found in truck in Veracruz 

Somalia

• Somaliland passes first law against rape 

Sudan

• Student killed in bread protests 
• Sudan protests to U.N. over Egypt hold on border territory 

Brazil

• Drug lord accused of deadly jail riot arrested

Myanmar

• Trial set to begin for two Reuters journalists 
• Army admits to killing Rohingya Muslims 

France

• President Macron says China’s new ‘Silk Road’ cannot be one-way
• Thieves raid jewelry store at Paris Ritz Hotel
• Macron tells Netanyahu the Iran nuclear deal must be preserved
• French salmonella baby milk scandal affects 83 countries

Tunisia

• Protester killed in clashes with police over price hikes, unemployment 
• At least 300 arrested as army deploys
• Authorities arrests another 150 including opposition leaders over unrest 

Iran

• Iran stages pro-government rallies, derides Trump ‘blunder’ at U.N.
• Iran bans English in primary schools
• 3,700 arrested amid protests, unrest 
• Warship crashes at Capsian port, 2 crew missing
• 8 earthquakes strike along Iran-Iraq border 
• Britain, France, Germany plead for U.S. to preserve Iran deal
• Iran says nuclear deal with major powers not renegotiable 
• U.S. sanctions head of Iran’s judiciary over human rights abuses

Iraq

• Suicide bombing in Baghdad kills 8, wounds at least 10
• PM Abadi to seek re-election, allied with Iran-backed group

Congo

• Police fires teargas on churchgoer’s protest
• Gunfire as Congo police disperse mourners at Kinshasa church
• Congolese troops launch offensive against Ugandan rebels in Beni 
• 4 soldiers killed in a hit-run attack in Central Congo

Albania

• Authorities fire police chief, promises to fight against cannabis trade

North Korea

• North Korea to join Winter Olympics in South Korea 
• Putin says ‘shrewd and mature’ North Korean leader has ‘won this round’ with the West

Bangladesh

• Bangladesh court upholds law banning Rohingya Muslims from getting married in the country

Australia

• First gay weddings take place in Australia
• U.S. tourist dies on popular hike near Alice Springs

Germany

• Shots fired at Kurdish footballer’s car in Germany
• Court halts deportation of Turk convicted of Islamist support 
• Police makes 169 arrests in mafia raids
• U.S. Army howitzer shipment halted by Germany police 
• Merkel close to breaking impasse over new government 

Palestine

• 2 Palestinians killed in clashes with Israeli troops in Gaza and the West Bank
• Egyptian navy opens fire on Palestinian fisherman at sea and kills him 
• Israel destroys Hamas tunnel under key Gaza crossing
• President Abbas calls Trump’s plan the ‘slap of the century’

Lebanon

• Bomb places in car wounds Palestinian in Southern Lebanon

Greece

• Lawmakers to limit Sharia law after European Court challenge
• Communist protesters storm labor ministry 
• Greeks strike over law restricting right to strike 

Switzerland

• 13,000 tourists stuck in Zermatt amid avalanche risk 
• Anti-Trump demonstrators march in Bern

Poland

• Prime Minister reshuffles his cabinet ahead of key E.U. visit 
• Hundreds protest against proposed abortion restrictions 

Pakistan

• Bomb targets police truck in Quetta, 7 killed, 23 injured
• 2 dead in protests over girl’s rape and murder

Israel

• U.N. urges Israel to find solutions for African migrants
• Israel approves construction of 352 new settler homes in West Bank

The Philippines

• Philippines to protest to China over apparent airbase on manmade island
• Ash eruption from volcano triggers evacuation

Japan

• U.S. apologizes to Japan over repeat accidents on Japanese territory involving American military equipment 
• U.S. approves anti-ballistic missile sale to Japan
• Japan protests presence of Chinese military ships in waters near disputed islands
• Heavy snow strands 430 people overnight on train in Japan
• PM Abe rejects South Korean call for new steps to help ‘comfort women’

Peru

• President Kuczynski reshuffles Cabinet after Fujimori uproar 
• Protesters demand the pardon of former President be removed
• Earthquake kills 1, injures 65, dozens of homes destroyed 
• Former President Fujimori hospitalized with heart problems 

Ivory Coast

• Rival army factions clash at military bases in Bouake 
• Soldiers loot arms, burn military bases 

Ecuador

• Ecuador to explore mediation to solve Assange standoff 
• Ecuador grants nationality to Wikileaks founder Julian Assange

Venezuela

• Lootings and street protests continue in Southeastern Venezuela
• Teen killed in looting on highway 
• 4 Venezuelans die on boat trip to Curacao 
• Motorcycle gunmen kills pro-government legislator 
• Government and opposition conclude talks without agreement

Yemen

• Houthi’s threaten to block Read Sea shipping lane 

Russia

• U.S. report warns of Russian meddling across Europe 
• Putin to raise minimum wage from May 1
• Russia kills militants behind Syria airbase attack 

Spain

• Catalan separatists agree to re-elect Puidgemont 
• Nightclub ceiling collapses in Madrid, 26 injured

Honduras

• 7.6 magnitude earthquake hits sea north of Honduras

South Korea

• President Moon says Trump deserves credit for North Korea talks 

Colombia

• ELN rebels resume attacks after ceasefire expires
• President recalls peace negotiators 
• ELN rebels kidnap oil workers near the border with Venezuela 

Italy

• Berlusconi’s coalition rises in polls ahead of elections 
• Putin denies meddling in Italian election 

India

• 3 students die in boat accident near Mumbai 

Ethiopia

• Authorities ban foreign adoptions amid concerns of abuse
• Court jails members of group committed to overthrowing the government 

Sri Lanka

• Alcohol ban on Sri Lankan women reinstated by President

Czech Republic

• Lawmakers postpone confidence vote for PM as billionaire battles fraud allegations
• Incumbent President wins first round of Presidential election, will face run-off against Drahos

Cyprus

• Cyprus company sues former Trump campaign manager Manafort for fraud

Denmark

• Denmark and Greenland sign deal to clean up U.S. military waste

Nigeria

• At least 15,000 Cameroonian refugees flee to Nigeria amid crackdown
• At least 70 people buried after clashes between farmers 

Afghanistan

• U.S. Service member wounded in possible insider attack

Ukraine

• 3 Ukrainian soldiers killed as fighting picks up

China

• Authorities demolish well-known evangelic church 
• Burning oil tanker sinks off Chinese coast killing all 32 crew members 

Chile

• Vandals attack churches in Chile three days ahead of Pope visit 
• 3 churches firebombed, President calls for ‘respect’
• Chile complains of World Bank unfair treatment

Qatar

• Qatar says Emirati plane violated airspace, UAE denies 
• Qatari royal held against his will by Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi

Hungary

• Hungary summons Romanian ambassador over PM’s remarks threatening ethnic Hungarians 

Cameroon

• Farmers abandon cocoa plantations amid crackdown

Portugal

• At least 8 killed, dozens hurt in fire, stampede

Guatemala

• Congressman arrested, accused of plotting murders of two journalists 

Austria

• Thousands protest against Government’s shift to the right

Norway

• Liberals to join Conservative-led government 

Thailand

• 16 injured in tourist boat explosion near Phi Phi island 

Papua New Guinea

• Thousands evacuated after volcano explodes on Northern Coast

Indonesia

• Golkar party appoints new parliamentary speaker amid corruption investigation

Follow @TheZenCorner on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for Breaking News.

PS: Subscribe to the newsletter to receive it directly by email. 

In Brief: Iranian turmoil continues as Government arrests thousands, Dozens of civilians killed in Syria, U.S. suspends nearly $1 billion in aid to Pakistan, Israel orders African migrants to leave, Multiple terrorist attacks strike Nigeria, North and South Korea discuss participation in Winter Olympics, At least 20 killed as suicide bomber targets police in Afghanistan, Turkey detains 70 military officers in post-coup crackdown, 51 dead in Peru as bus falls off cliff, Al Shabaab kills 5 Kenyan police officers, 8 migrants found dead off Libyan coast, Ugandan President signs law removing age-cap for Presidency in bid for re-election.

Iran

• Protesters attack police stations
• Iran blames CIA for protests 
• Students ‘among more than 1,000 arrested’
• Revolutionary Guard claims victory against protesters 
• Tens of thousands rally in favor of Government after days of protest
• 3 intelligence agents killed in Piranshahr 
• Over 20 hurt as magnitude 5.1 earthquake hits western Iran

Syria

• Car bomb kills 23 in Idlib 
• President Assad names new ministers for defense, industry, and information
• Russian jets kill at least 30 civilians near Damascus 
• At least 10 hospitals targets over the past 10 days 

The United States of America

• U.S. suspends at least $900 million in security aid to Pakistan
• U.S. sanctions companies linked to Iran missile program 
• Trump threatens to withhold aid cash to Palestinians 
• Soldier killed on New Year’s Day mission in Afghanistan 
• Trump administration places Pakistan on watch list for religious freedom violations 

Egypt

• Gunman kills 2 Christian brothers at alcohol store near Cairo
• Authorities hang 4 convicted militants 
• Hot air balloon crashes over Luxor killing tourist
• Authorities detain 75 people in human trafficking investigation
• Former PM Shafik to no longer run for Presidential Election 

Brazil

• 9 killed in prison riot near Brasilia, 106 prisoners escape

Sweden

• Man dies in Stockholm after picking up suspected grenade

Norway

• Labour party’s deputy leader resigns over harassment allegations 

Spain

• At least 209 migrants reach Spain after storming fence

Israel

• Israel orders African migrants to leave, U.N. says the move violates international and Israeli laws
• Netanyahu denies Israeli involvement in Iran protests 
• Authorities indict Palestinian teenage girl who punched soldier
• Israel supports gradual funding cut to U.N. agency for Palestinians 

Indonesia

• 8 killed, 13 missing after boat capsizes off Kalimantan island

Nigeria

• Army claims 700 Boko Haram captives have escaped
• At least 16 killed by gunmen in Southern Nigeria after a New Year’s Day church service
• Suicide bomber kills 11 people in mosque attack in northeast Nigeria
• Military rescues schoolgirl abducted by Boko Haram in 2014

Australia

• Thousands flee, 2 injured as barge carrying fireworks catches fire at Terrigal beach 

Palestine

• Palestinian envoy sent back to Washington after consultations with President Abbas 
• Palestinian Christians attack car of Greek Patriarch in protest against church’s decision to sell West Bank land to Jewish groups 
• Israel to restore power supply to Gaza

South Korea

• South Korea offers talks with North Korea on Winter Olympics cooperations
• No military drills with USA during Winter Olympics 

South Africa

• 2 climbers die after falling from a cliff on Table Mountain 
• 18 killed, over 260 injured in train crash 

Afghanistan

• Taliban ambush kills local police chief 
• Suicide bomber hits police in Kabul, at least 20 killed

Pakistan

• Pakistan summons U.S. envoy over Trump’s tweet
• U.S. suspends security assistance to Pakistan 

Uganda

• President Museveni signs law removing age cap for President 

Turkey

• Two artillery shells from Syria hit southeastern Turkey
• Authorities to detain 70 military officers suspected of coup links 
• Jailed pro-Kurdish opposition co-leader to step down amid charges of supporting terrorism 
• Authorities remove opposition party mayor from office
• German and Turkish officials vow to end spat 

Bulgaria

• President vetoes anti-corruption law

South Sudan

• U.S., Britain warn South Sudan parties over ceasefire violations
• New fighting near Juba as cease-fire violated

The United Kingdom

• Man found dead in London’s Canary Wharf financial district 

Venezuela

• Soldier arrested for killing pregnant woman in line for food
• U.S. imposes more sanctions on Venezuelans 

Peru

• 51 dead after bus falls off cliff near Lima 
• Former Authoritarian President Fujimori leaves clinic as free man, reigniting anger over pardon

France

• President Macron asks Rouhani to show restraint, postpones minister’s visit to Tehran
• 1 killed as storm cuts power to 225,000 households in Northern and Eastern France
• Protests greet Erdogan as he visits Macron in Paris 
• Macron suggests E.U. partnership with Turkey

Yemen

• Saudi-led coalition denies blocking aid to Yemen
• Mine blast injures Yemeni army chief-of-staff

Liberia

• President-elect Weah tempers expectations, plans agricultural push 

Italy

• 6 dead as tanker explodes near Brescia 
• Rome mayor moves to delay start of trial on lying charges

North Korea

• North Korea re-opens cross-border communications with South Korea 
• North Korea likely to attend Winter Olympics in South Korea 

Somalia

• U.S. airstrike destroys vehicle carrying explosives west of Mogadishu
• Prime Minister fires 3 ministers as country battles insurgency
• U.S. airstrike kills 2 militants west of Mogadishu 

Ethiopia

• Authorities to free jailed politicians to ‘foster national reconciliation’

Kosovo

• 4 Kosovo members of Parliaments get suspended jail term for tear gas protest 

Russia

• Military helicopter crashes in Syria, killing 2
• At least 7 Russian planes destroyed by shelling at Syrian airbase
• 10 people killed in Siberian factory fire
• Russia berates U.S. for U.N. talks on Iran, calls it an ‘internal affair’

United Arab Emirates

• Norway suspends arms sales to U.A.E. over Yemen war
• U.A.E. to resume flights to Tunis ending row over ban on women passengers

Kenya

• Al Shabaab kills 5 police officers out on patrol near border with Somalia 

China

• 10 people missing as cargo vessel sinks off Shanghai coast
• 32 missing, oil tanker on fire after collision off China’s East coast

Zambia

• Foreign minister resigns over his country’s ‘greed’

India

• Thousands of protesters from a low-caste community disrupt key transport services in Mumbai 
• Mumbai fire kills 4 

Ireland

• 1 dead, 2 injured in knife attack in Dundalk 

Iceland

• Iceland to require companies to prove equal pay for women

Mexico

• Former mayor and son murdered in central Mexico
• Attorney General vows to crack down on money laundering
• 5 men found dead in car in Veracruz 
• U.S. National Security Advisor claims Russia is meddling in Mexican election 

Equatorial Guinea

• Authorities stop coup attempt by ‘mercenaries’ 

Qatar

• Royal jewels stolen from Venice exhibition

Congo

• 37 die in Congo flooding after heavy rain 
• U.N. to investigate deaths of Tanzanian peacekeepers in Congo

New Zealand

• Storm pummels the North Island leaving thousands without power

Sudan

• Sudan recalls its ambassador from Egypt amid tensions 
• Sudan closes border with Eritrea 
• Student killed, opposition leader detained as bread protest continue 

Panama

• Panama extradites former Mexican governor accused of corruption

Mozambique

• 7 injured in plane crash 

Myanmar

• Rohingya insurgents launch ambush, injure 6 members of the security forces 

Georgia

• Court sentences former president in absentia to 3 years in prison for abuse of power 

Zimbabwe

• President rules out forming coalition government with opposition 
• Former ministers loyal to Mugabe charged with corruption

Libya

• 8 migrants dead, 86 rescued from sinking boat off Libyan coast

Cuba

• U.S. Senator says no evidence of ‘sonic attacks’ in Cuba

Austria

• 2 German skiers killed in avalanche in Austrian Alps 

Canada

• 2 planes collide on the ground at Toronto’s airport 

Saudi Arabia

• 11 Saudi princes detained following protest over utility bills
• Saudi warplane crashes in Yemen

Vietnam

• Ex-U.N. chief Ban’s nephew pleads guilty to U.S. corruption charges

Kuwait

• Kuwait City Stadium barrier collapse injures 40 football fans

Senegal

• At least 13 killed by gunmen outside the town of Ziguinchor 

Malaysia

• Opposition alliance names 92-year-old Mahathir as Prime Minister candidate 

Cameroon

• Separatist leader taken into custody in Nigeria

Germany

• Merkel hopeful as coalition talks begin

Follow @TheZenCorner on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for Breaking News.

PS: Subscribe to the newsletter to receive it directly by email. 

In Brief: ISIS attack on Muslim cultural center in Afghanistan kills 41, Thousands protest against Government in Iran, At least 9 killed in shootout outside Coptic Church in Egypt, Pope Francis calls for two-state solution in Israel-Palestine, Russian opposition candidate Navalny barred from Presidential election, Ukraine and pro-Russian rebels swap prisoners, Former soccer star George Weah elected President of Liberia, Congolese security forces kill 7 during anti-government protests, U.S. airstrike kills 13 al-Shabaab militants in Somalia.

Afghanistan

• ISIS attack on Shiite Muslim cultural center in Kabul kills 41, injures 84
• Suicide attack at funeral in Eastern Afghanistan kills 15

Iran

• Thousands protest against high prices in Tehran
• Protests turn against government, spreads to several major cities
• 2 protesters killed in provincial town
• Government temporarily restricts access to social media
• 1 dead after 4.2 magnitude earthquake near Tehran 

Egypt

• At least 9 killed in shootout outside Cairo church
• Authorities hang 15 militants for killing security forces in Sinai
• Militants kill 2 in North Sinai
• Police officer, 5 soldiers killed in explosion in Sinai
• Court jails former President Morsi over insulting judiciary
• Security forces kill 3 suspected militants, arrest 10 others 

Turkey

• 3 soldiers killed in Southeast Turkey
• Erdogan calls Assad a terrorist, says impossible to continue with him
• Authorities detain 54 former university staff in Gulen-related operation
• Turkey to lift restrictions on visa services for U.S. citizens 
• Authorities arrest 120 ahead of New Year’s Eve attack anniversary 
• Russia agrees to sell surface to air missiles to Turkey 
• Turkey detains 75 ISIS suspects 

The Vatican

• Pope Francis calls for two-state solution in Israel-Palestine 

Bahrain

• Military court convicts 6 to death on terror charges

Russia

• Bus drives into pedestrian underpass in Moscow, 4 killed
• Gunman opens fire at Moscow pastry factory, killing 1
• Blast rips through supermarket in St. Petersburg, 10 hurt
• Opposition candidate Navalny barred from Russian Presidential election 
• Bus drives into bus stop in Moscow, injures 3
• St. Petersburg supermarket bombing suspect arrested
• Court upholds ban on Navalny running for presidency 

Canada

• Canada to expel Venezuelan diplomat in retaliatory move

The United States of America

• U.S. says it negotiated $285 million cut in U.N. budget 
• U.S. missions in Turkey to resume full visa services
• 12 dead in New York apartment fire
• Authorities claim Romanians hacked police cameras days before Trump’s inauguration 
• Putin voices hope for cooperation with U.S. in letter to Trump
• Anger grows as only half of Puerto Rico has power
• Military to accept transgender recruits 

Tanzania

• Authorities threaten to shut down churches after cleric criticizes President Magufuli 

Nepal

• Nepal bans solo climbers from Mount Everest 

Ukraine

• Government and Pro-Russian rebels swap prisoners 
• Bitcoin exchange manager kidnapped for ransom in Kiev
• Man with explosives takes 11 hostages 

Peru

• Thousands protest against Fujimori pardon 
• Presidential advisor and Culture minister resign after Fujimori pardon

Great Britain

• British ship escorts Russian ship near national waters
• Fire in Liverpool destroys hundreds of vehicles 

Cuba

• 39 injured in fireworks explosion at Cuban festival on Christmas Eve

Switzerland

• 3 people die in avalanches in the Alps 

Congo

• Attackers torch President’s property, 1 police officer killed
• Congo releases U.S. citizen detained for nearly 2 years
• Security forces kill at least 7 during anti-government protests 

Israel

• Syrian, Iranian backed forces advance in border area near Israel
• Minister plans Trump train station at Western Wall
• Parliament passes disputed law preventing police investigators from going public with their findings 
• PM’s political party calls for de-facto annexation of Israeli settlements

Nigeria

• 4 killed in suspected Boko Haram attack, army claims it repelled the assault 
• U.S. agrees to sell fighter planes to Nigeria 

Libya

• Explosion hits oil pipeline in central Eastern Libya 
• Libya puts 142 migrants on plane to Guinea 
• Eastern Libyan forces say they fully control Benghazi

Pakistan

• Suspected U.S. drone kills militants on Pakistan-Afghan border

Italy

• Coast Guards rescue more than 250 migrants in the Mediterranean 
• Italy aims to send up to 470 troops to Niger to curb people-smuggling 
• President dissolves parliament ahead of elections 
• Italy to vote on March 4, hung parliament feared 

Venezuela

• 28 arrested after looting, violence
• Explosion at major refinery injures 2
• Thousands protest over pork shortage, Maduro blames Portugal

Argentina

• Judge says death of prosecutor Nisman was murder
• Explosion at port kills 1, injures 8

India

• Police kill Kashmir ‘Merchant of Death’ 
• Fire in Mumbai kills at 15 
• 4 police officers, 2 militants killed in Kashmir attack

Syria

• Military jet downed in Northern Hama, pilot killed
• Dozens of militants evacuated from Southern Syria 
• Putin tells Assad they will help defend Syrian sovereignty 

Saudi Arabia

• Israel excluded from Saudi-hosted Chess championship
• 2 Saudi Princes released from detention in anti-corruption investigation

North Korea

• Missile developers hit by U.N. sanctions 
• Russian tankers fueled North Korea via transfers at sea
• Kim Jong Un says nuclear weapons will prevent war with U.S.

Zimbabwe

• President appoints ex-military commander as Vice President

Somalia

• U.S. airstrike kills 13 al-Shabaab militants in Southern Somalia 

Vietnam

• Authorities jail 15 for plot to blow up airport in Ho Chi Minh

Yemen

• French President Macron presses Saudi King to lift Yemen blockade
• U.N. says Saudi-led coalition raids in Yemen killed 109 civilians in the past 10 days 

Cambodia

• Prime Minister Hun Sen vows to stay in power for at least another 10 years 

Myanmar

• Authorities extend Reuters reporters custody

Germany

• At least 25 injured as cruise ship hits bridge in Duisburg 

France

• French Islamist militant detained in Syria 

South Korea

• President calls sex slave deal with Japan flawed
• South Korea holds Hong Kong ship over North Korean oil
• Authorities hold Panama oil tanker suspected of North Korea trade

China

• Chinese tourist killed, several injured in bus accident in Iceland 
• China denies selling oil illegally to North Korea 

Brazil

• Top prosecutor challenges President Temer’s Christmas pardons 

Bosnia

• Prosecutor indicts 14 Bosnian Muslims over war crimes against Serbs 

Liberia

• Former soccer star George Weah elected President 

Mexico

• Regional lawmaker shot dead in Jalisco
• 10 killed in car crash near Acapulco 

Palestine

• Teenager who slapped Israeli soldier to face charges in military court
• Thousands protest against Trump in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, at least 20 injured
• Palestinians recall envoy to the U.S.

Namibia

• Deputy Prime Minister survives crash that killed 3

Spain

• Prime Minister calls for Catalan Parliament to be formed on January 17

South Sudan

• Military raids home of exiled former army chief

South Africa

• Court finds that Parliament failed to comply with its duties to hold President accountable 

The Philippines

• Police kill 2 people rushing to the hospital, believed they were gunmen on the run 

Mali

• President names former defense and foreign minister as Prime Minister

Greece

• Turkey says granting asylum to alleged coup plotter will affect ties 
• Earthquake rattles Athens, no casualties reported 

Sudan

• Sudan announces state of emergency in Kassala, North Kurdufan

Zambia

• President orders military to help fight cholera spread, over 1,500 infected, 41 killed

Kenya

• 36 dead in bus crash in Central Kenya

Australia

• 6 dead as seaplane crashes into Sydney river

Costa Rica

• At least 12 killed in plane crash in Costa Rica

Follow @TheZenCorner on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for Breaking News.

PS: Subscribe to the newsletter to receive it directly by email.