Asia
China / USA: exchange of tariffs on imports
China has retaliated against new US tariffs by imposing 15% duties on certain energy imports and 10% tariffs on crude oil, vehicles, and machinery. It also announced export controls on key minerals like…
Iran: human rights activist faces execution
Humanitarian worker and Kurdish activist Pakhshan Azizi faces imminent execution in Iran after a Revolutionary Court sentenced her to death in July 2024. Her conviction is solely based on her peaceful humanitarian work,…
China willing to accept Chinese nationals deported from USA
A spokesperson has confirmed China’s willingness to repatriate confirmed Chinese nationals from the USA, following escalating tensions over deportation cooperation. This came after Donald Trump had threatened sanctions and tariffs against countries refusing…
India: revival hits Sikhs in Punjab
Christianity is growing exponentially in Punjab, with Pentecostal churches leading a revival among Sikhs. This movement incorporates Punjabi culture by allowing converts to retain their traditional names and clothes while adopting Christian faith,…
Israel / Gaza: ceasefire deal reached
A ceasefire deal has been reached, ending fifteen months of conflict in the Gaza strip. This agreement, hailed by Joe Biden, Qatar’s prime minister, and Hamas officials, aims to bring a much-needed break…
South Korea: president arrested
South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol has been arrested, ending weeks of standoff at his fortified residence. Yoon recorded a video before being taken to a detention centre, criticising the ‘collapse of the…
Tibet: devastating earthquake
A devastating 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Tibet on 6 January, claiming at least 126 lives and injuring 188, according to Chinese state media. Centred near the Nepalese border, the quake caused widespread destruction across…
Japan: atomic bomb survivors receive Nobel Peace Prize
The 2024 Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, a grassroots Japanese organisation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bomb survivors, for its tireless efforts to eliminate nuclear weapons. It was formed…
Syria: head of HTS meets Christian leaders
Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s new leader and head of HTS, has met senior Christian leaders in Damascus to reassure minorities about their safety under his administration. The meeting follows protests over attacks on Christian…
Gaza: closer to a ceasefire deal?
After months of deadlock, there are new signs that Israel and Hamas could be moving closer to a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal. The USA, Qatar, and Egypt are reporting greater willingness…
