January 12, 2025

* Israel approves plan to withdraw troops from Gaza: report Israel is moving forward with plans to withdraw its troops from Gaza, following progress in prisoner exchange talks with Hamas, according to media reports. Haaretz newspaper reported that the military has approved several withdrawal strategies aimed at swiftly pulling soldiers out of the area. One of the options being considered includes using the Netzarim Corridor, which splits Gaza into two, as a potential exit route. * Houthis claim another attack on US aircraft carrier in Red Sea The Houthis in Yemen say they've launched another attack on the USS Harry Truman aircraft carrier in the Red Sea. Their military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, stated that missiles and drones were used to target the ship in the northern Red Sea. He explained that the attack aimed to push the carrier out of its operational area. * Sudan paramilitary leader says 'lost' key Al-Jazirah state capital The leader of Sudan's Rapid Support Forces, or the RSF, has admitted that his troops have lost control of Wad Madani, the capital of Al-Jazirah state, after an army offensive. In a message to the paramilitaries and the public, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo vowed to retake the city, a key hub in central Sudan. The RSF had held it since December 2023. Meanwhile, the army, which has been fighting the RSF since April, announced on Saturday that it had entered Wad Madani and was clearing out "remnants of the rebels". * Ethiopia, Somalia restore full diplomatic relations Ethiopia and Somalia have decided to fully restore their diplomatic ties, a move the two nations announced in a joint statement. The announcement came after a meeting between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, where they discussed ways to strengthen their relationship and address shared priorities. Back in April 2024, Somalia expelled Ethiopia's ambassador and shut down its consulates in Hargeisa, following tensions over the Somaliland port deal. The dispute was eventually resolved with the Ankara Declaration, brokered by Türkiye. * Toxic smoke from LA wildfires poses health risk People in Los Angeles are being urged to stay indoors as dangerous wildfire smoke spreads across the area. Massive fires burning in and around the city have filled the air with toxic fumes, creating health risks for residents. Anish Mahajan from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health explained in a press conference that wildfire smoke contains a mix of fine particles, gases and water vapours. It's those small particles that can get into your nose and throat, causing sore throats and headaches, Mahajan said, advising caution for everyone—even those who are otherwise healthy.