February 5, 2025

US will 'take over' Gaza: Trump "President Donald Trump announced the US will ""take over"" and oversee the Palestinian territory Gaza, during the meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump claimed global support for American control, pledging reconstruction, economic growth and security. He did not rule out deploying troops. Netanyahu called the plan ""history-changing."" Trump previously suggested throwing Palestinians outside Gaza permanently. He said he would visit the region in the future." Second phase of Gaza ceasefire talks resume in Doha "Negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire have kicked off in Doha, with Hamas accusing Israel of stalling humanitarian aid. ""Shelter and humanitarian aid are urgent priorities that cannot be subject to Israeli delays,"" said Hamas spokesperson Abdel Latif al-Qanoua. Meanwhile, Israel has dispatched a team for talks, signalling potential progress ahead of PM Netanyahu’s high-stakes meeting with President Trump. The ceasefire, in place since January 19, has halted months of Israeli genocidal war in Gaza, with both sides exchanging captives under the agreement. " Sweden reels from rare school shooting tragedy "Sweden is in mourning after a rare school shooting left around 10 people dead, including the suspected gunman, at an education centre in Orebro. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called it ""a painful day for the whole country."" Authorities are still searching the school for more victims, while investigations into attempted murder, arson and weapons offences are underway. Witnesses describe chaos and fear as students flee. No police officers were injured." US suspends incoming packages from China, Hong Kong "President Donald Trump's new trade measures with China take effect. US Postal Service has paused international parcels from China and Hong Kong. Trump imposed a fresh 10 percent tariff on Chinese imports and closed the ""de minimis"" rule, which let duty-free shipments under $800 flood the US. Fast-fashion giants Shein and Temu —major players in this trade— may feel the pinch. USPS said the change will not impact the flow of letters. Meanwhile, China also imposed additional tariffs on US products and banned several companies." Russia revives Soviet-era Intervision as alternative to Eurovision "Russia is bringing back Intervision, the Soviet alternative to Eurovision, as a showcase for “traditional values.” Ordered by President Vladimir Putin, the contest will be held in Moscow, featuring China, Cuba, Brazil, and other allies. Unlike Eurovision—banned from Russia since 2022—Intervision will exclude political themes and LGBTQ+ representation. Putin positions it as a stand against Western ""decadence,"" reinforcing his vision of Russia as a guardian of moral traditions."