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In Costa Rica's presidential election, Laura Fernandez, backed by outgoing President Rodrigo Chaves, is leading with over 40% of votes, aiming to avoid a runoff. She pledges to continue Chaves's tough security policies amid concerns over rising violence and political polarization. The election also influences the country's democratic trajectory.
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On January 27, 2026, India and the European Union concluded a landmark free trade agreement after nearly 20 years of negotiations. Covering 2 billion people and 25% of global GDP, the deal will slash tariffs on most goods, double EU exports to India by 2032, and deepen strategic ties amid shifting global trade dynamics and US tariff pressures.
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Mehdi Mahmoudian, co-writer of the Oscar-nominated film 'It Was Just an Accident,' was detained in Iran after signing a statement condemning the regime's violent crackdown on protesters. His arrest follows the detention of other signatories, including activists and fellow filmmakers, amid ongoing protests and government violence.
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As of February 3, 2026, the US is facilitating India’s purchase of Venezuelan oil, aiming to replace Indian imports of Russian and Iranian crude amid sanctions. Russia’s oil revenues have dropped sharply due to Western sanctions and a global price glut. The US has eased some Venezuela sanctions to boost oil flows, while Russia relies on a shadow tanker fleet to circumvent restrictions.
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Marius Borg Høiby, stepson of Norway's Crown Prince, faces 38 charges including rape, violence, threats, and drug possession. Detained since Sunday, he is scheduled for trial until March 19. The case has impacted the royal family's image amid broader scrutiny of Mette-Marit's past contacts.
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On January 29, 2026, Venezuela's National Assembly passed a reform bill allowing private and foreign companies operational control over oil production and sales, reversing decades of state control. The Trump administration eased sanctions on Venezuelan oil, signaling a shift toward US involvement following the January 3 US military capture of former President Nicolás Maduro. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez supports the reform amid ongoing political tensions.
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As of early February 2026, gold and silver prices have sharply declined after reaching record highs in late January. The sell-off was triggered by President Donald Trump's nomination of Kevin Warsh as Federal Reserve chair, which reassured markets about Fed independence and led to a stronger US dollar. Despite recent volatility, precious metals remain significantly above last year's levels amid ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainties.
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Russia launched a missile barrage targeting Ukraine’s power grid and civilian infrastructure, damaging residential buildings and causing power outages in Kyiv and other regions. The attack occurred just before US-brokered peace negotiations in Abu Dhabi, with Kyiv urging increased military support amid ongoing energy and security challenges.
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As of early February 2026, wildfires have devastated southern Chile's Biobio and Ñuble regions, killing at least 21 people, injuring over 300, and forcing 50,000 evacuations. The fires have destroyed thousands of homes and scorched roughly 450 sq km. Simultaneously, Argentina's Patagonia faces severe wildfires threatening ancient forests amid budget cuts and climate denial by President Javier Milei.
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Fela Kuti, the Nigerian pioneer of Afrobeat and activist, was posthumously awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. The recognition highlights his influence on global music, activism, and Nigerian culture. The award marks a historic milestone as the first African artist to receive this honor, reaffirming his enduring legacy.
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As of early 2026, Israel has intensified restrictions on humanitarian organizations operating in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, demanding detailed staff data and revoking licenses of 37 NGOs, including Doctors Without Borders (MSF). MSF controversially shared staff names with Israel to avoid expulsion, sparking criticism over risks to Palestinian workers amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.
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On February 2, 2026, US charge d'affaires Laura Dogu arrived in Caracas to restore diplomatic ties following the US military capture of former President Nicolás Maduro on January 3. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez has introduced reforms including an amnesty bill for political prisoners and plans to privatize Venezuela's oil sector. Despite prisoner releases, human rights groups report ongoing detentions and repression.
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On February 3, 2026, the US Department of Justice's release of over three million pages of Jeffrey Epstein-related documents exposed extensive connections between Epstein and prominent figures including Prince Andrew, Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Sarah Ferguson, and NFL owner Steve Tisch. The files reveal invitations to Buckingham Palace, plans to visit Epstein's island, and unproven allegations against Gates, alongside intimate email exchanges and financial links.
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On February 2, 2026, the US government announced Project Vault, a $12 billion strategic reserve of critical minerals funded by a $10 billion loan from the US Export-Import Bank and $1.67 billion in private capital. The reserve aims to reduce US dependence on China’s rare earths supply, securing materials vital for manufacturing vehicles, electronics, and defense technologies.
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As of February 2, 2026, France's minority government led by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has passed the 2026 budget after months of deadlock, using constitutional Article 49.3 to bypass parliamentary votes and surviving multiple no-confidence motions. Meanwhile, Israel's coalition faces a tough battle to approve its 2026 budget amid disputes over ultra-Orthodox military conscription exemptions, with key ultra-Orthodox factions signaling conditional support for initial budget readings.
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As of early February 2026, healthcare systems worldwide face severe challenges. In the US, immigration enforcement disrupts patient care and staff morale, with hospitals under pressure and nurses striking over understaffing. Malawi struggles with chronic drug shortages and theft, undermining patient safety. Zimbabwe confronts infrastructure deficits, while Kenya reports deaths linked to unlicensed clinics. These crises expose systemic vulnerabilities impacting access and quality of care.
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As of February 2, 2026, Ukrainian President Zelensky announced the postponement of peace talks with Russia and the U.S. to February 4-5 in Abu Dhabi. Despite ongoing Russian drone attacks killing civilians and targeting energy infrastructure, negotiations continue under U.S. mediation. The key sticking point remains territorial control in eastern Ukraine's Donbas region, with no breakthrough yet.
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Vladimir Motin, captain of the cargo ship Solong, was convicted of manslaughter after colliding with the Stena Immaculate off northeast England in March 2025. The crash caused a fire, killing Filipino sailor Mark Angelo Pernia. Motin faces sentencing; the incident highlights safety failures in maritime navigation.
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On February 2, thousands gathered at Gobbler's Knob in Pennsylvania for the annual Groundhog Day event, where Punxsutawney Phil predicted six more weeks of winter by seeing his shadow. The tradition, rooted in European farming customs and Christian Candlemas, has grown in popularity since the 1993 Bill Murray film, despite its humorous and non-scientific nature.
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European leaders and NATO officials are working to de-escalate tensions following US President Trump's recent push for control over Greenland. Discussions focus on Arctic security, sovereignty issues involving Denmark, and NATO's strategic presence amid Russian hybrid threats. The situation remains fluid as diplomatic negotiations continue.
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China will require all new cars to have mechanical door release functions starting January 2027, addressing safety concerns over electronic handles. Approved models will have until 2029 to comply. The move follows incidents involving electronic handle failures, including a fatal accident involving a Xiaomi vehicle.
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Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen Saturday night at her Tucson home. Authorities believe she was kidnapped, and a crime scene has been established. Her family and law enforcement are urgently searching for her, as she requires medication that could be fatal without it. The case is ongoing.
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Militants linked to the Baloch Liberation Army launched coordinated attacks across Balochistan, killing at least 17 security personnel and 31 civilians. The group claims to have killed over 145 militants in recent days, with ongoing clashes and security operations. Pakistan blames India and Afghanistan for backing the insurgents.
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K-pop achieved a historic milestone at the Grammys with the win for best song for visual media. Rosé of Blackpink performed with Bruno Mars, and the song 'Golden' from a Korean film won, highlighting K-pop's growing international influence and recognition, especially in the U.S. and South Korea.
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Italy's 2026 Winter Olympics are underway, featuring a dispersed venue strategy across northern Italy. The event emphasizes sustainability by using existing venues, but faces logistical and security challenges, including international criticism over US ICE involvement and venue delays. The Games run from February 6-22, with notable athletes and a high-security operation.
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Blue Origin announced TeraWave, a new satellite constellation of 5,408 satellites designed to deliver up to 6 terabits per second globally for enterprise and government use. Deployment begins in late 2027, positioning Blue Origin as a key player in space-based internet infrastructure alongside SpaceX and Amazon. The network targets critical data operations, not consumer internet.
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Australia's new law requires platforms like Snapchat and Meta to block under-16 accounts. Since December, 4.7 million accounts have been disabled, but experts warn age verification tech has significant gaps, risking underage access and evasion through unregulated apps.
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On February 3, 2026, Panama's Supreme Court annulled the 25-year port concession held by Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison at the Panama Canal's Pacific and Atlantic entrances, citing constitutional violations and financial irregularities. The ports will be temporarily managed by Maersk. The ruling escalates US-China tensions over control of this strategic trade route, with China condemning the decision and vowing to protect its firms.
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A series of violent incidents, including shootings and a crane accident, highlight ongoing crime and law enforcement issues in Arab communities across Israel. Protests and strikes reflect deep frustration, with critics blaming government policies and police neglect for the rising violence. The situation continues to escalate as authorities struggle to contain the crisis.
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The US launched missile strikes in Nigeria amid ongoing security crises, driven by a campaign to frame the conflict as religious persecution. The strikes follow a reported coup plot within Nigeria's military and increased US military cooperation, raising concerns over regional stability and external influence.
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The EU is set to designate Iran's Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization following its crackdown on protests that resulted in thousands of deaths. This move, supported by France and Italy, aims to increase economic pressure on Iran amid rising tensions and potential US military responses. Diplomatic actions are ongoing.
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European governments are increasingly shifting from US-based digital services to domestic or open-source alternatives. France plans to replace US video conferencing tools with its own Visio by 2027, citing security and sovereignty concerns amid geopolitical tensions and US sanctions. Germany and Austria are also adopting open-source software for government use.
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China has carried out the executions of 11 individuals, including members of the Bai family, convicted of running extensive scam networks across Myanmar, involving fraud, kidnapping, and drug trafficking. The executions follow a series of crackdowns on transnational crime linked to Southeast Asia, with regional authorities under international pressure.
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Japan's deep-sea drilling vessel Chikyu successfully retrieved sediment containing rare earths from nearly 6,000 meters near Minamitorishima. This marks the first such extraction at this depth, aiming to reduce dependence on China for critical minerals used in high-tech industries.
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Bangladesh's February 12 election is unfolding amid political unrest, violence, and disputes over electoral fairness. The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus is overseeing the process, with major parties including BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami campaigning amid violence and disinformation. A referendum on reforms is scheduled for election day.
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Recent investigations reveal Bangladeshi migrant workers in Russia were deceived with false promises of civilian jobs, only to be coerced into combat roles in Ukraine. Many faced threats, violence, and imprisonment, with some escaping after months of forced service. The story highlights migrant risks amid regional conflicts. Today’s date: Tue, 03 Feb 2026.
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Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from Al-Nassr’s recent match amid reports of dissatisfaction with club management and transfer activity. Karim Benzema transferred to Al Hilal, intensifying the league title race. The transfer window closed with tensions high among top Saudi players and clubs.
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Syrian government forces have entered Kurdish-controlled areas in northeast Syria following a recent agreement with the SDF to integrate into the Syrian army. Despite a ceasefire extension, clashes and territorial disputes continue, with international actors urging restraint and negotiations to stabilize the region.
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An 18-year-old student at Northern Arizona University died after attending a fraternity event where alcohol was consumed. Three fraternity members, including officers, were arrested on hazing charges. The university suspended the fraternity as investigations continue. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about hazing and alcohol use in Greek life.
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Nigeria's security situation remains tense as authorities pursue charges against suspects linked to deadly attacks in Benue. Recent operations have rescued hostages and disrupted armed gangs, but violence and kidnappings continue across the region amid regional instability and international scrutiny.
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In 2025, Guinea worm cases dropped to 10 in humans, with animal infections declining. The eradication effort, led by The Carter Center, has reduced cases by over 99.99% since 1986, with only six countries remaining uncertified. Progress continues despite logistical challenges and funding shifts.
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On January 24, 2026, federal Border Patrol agents fatally shot Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old licensed nurse, in Minneapolis amid a federal immigration crackdown. Video evidence contradicts official claims that Pretti was armed and aggressive; he was seen holding only a phone before being disarmed. The shooting has sparked protests, legal battles, and calls for federal agents to leave Minnesota.
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Israel has partially reopened the Rafah crossing with Egypt, allowing limited movement for Palestinians seeking medical aid and escape from Gaza. The move follows US pressure and is part of a broader peace plan, but concerns over security and potential depopulation persist. The border remains a critical humanitarian route.
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Cuba's deputy foreign minister indicated the island is open to dialogue with the US, amid escalating tensions over sanctions, oil shortages, and recent threats from Washington. The US has signaled interest in negotiations, but conditions remain complex, with Cuba emphasizing certain issues are off-limits.
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French footballer Allan Saint-Maximin faced racist abuse after joining Lens, prompting club action and public support. Meanwhile, US soccer star Crystal Dunn retired, and Trinity Rodman re-signed with Washington Spirit in a landmark deal. The US women's team won 6-0 over Chile in a recent match.
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Waymo's latest funding round values the company at $126 billion, reflecting investor confidence in its autonomous vehicle technology. The company plans to expand beyond six U.S. cities into over 20, including London and Tokyo, despite ongoing safety and regulatory challenges.
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German authorities have detained several men in Lübeck and Lauenburg, suspecting them of operating a network that used shell companies to facilitate at least 16,000 deliveries to Russia since 2022. The illicit trade, valued at over €30 million, is believed to be backed by Russian state agencies to bypass EU sanctions.
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Gaza's Rafah border crossing has reopened for limited passage, allowing some Palestinians to return and facilitating the exit of sick and wounded. The move follows the discovery of the remains of Israeli police officer Ran Gvili, ending the first phase of the ceasefire. Israel plans to reopen the crossing once the search for Gvili's remains concludes.
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Sudan's Khartoum International Airport resumed commercial flights on Sunday, marking a step toward normalization amid ongoing conflict. The airport, damaged in the war that began in April 2023, saw its second flight since October, after military retook control from the RSF. The conflict has caused over 40,000 deaths and displaced millions.
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Severe flooding in Mozambique has affected nearly 600,000 people, destroying homes and infrastructure. Displacement is rising, with rescue efforts hampered by damaged roads and ongoing rains. International aid is limited due to reduced donor support, highlighting climate change's role in increasing disaster severity.
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President Trump has publicly demanded $1 billion in damages from Harvard University, escalating a long-standing conflict over federal funding, campus policies, and alleged antisemitism. Negotiations have shifted, with Trump now claiming the administration has dropped its demand for a cash payment, amid broader tensions over university policies and political influence.
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The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Syrian government have agreed on a ceasefire framework, leading to the entry of government forces into Kurdish-controlled areas of Hasakah and Qamishli. The deal aims to integrate SDF fighters into national institutions while maintaining Kurdish security operations, amid Turkish warnings.
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Bandits attacked Kurmin Wali in Kaduna State on January 18, abducting 177 worshippers. While 80 escaped into nearby forests, 86 remain in captivity. Military operations and community efforts have led to some returns, but tensions and violence persist in the region.
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Japan faces severe winter storms with record snowfall, resulting in 30 deaths, house collapses, stranded travelers, and disrupted public services. The government has deployed troops to assist vulnerable populations amid ongoing forecasts of more snow before the upcoming elections.
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Israeli and Italian officials have condemned recent incidents involving their personnel in Palestinian territory. An Israeli soldier detained two Italian Carabinieri near Ramallah, with reports of mistreatment, prompting diplomatic protests. The incidents highlight ongoing tensions over settler violence and diplomatic conduct in the West Bank.
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The US Bureau of Labor Statistics will delay the release of January 2026 jobs data due to the ongoing government shutdown. Data collection is complete, but the report's publication is postponed until federal funding resumes. This delay affects key economic indicators amid a sluggish job market and economic growth uncertainties.
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Limited crossings into Egypt resumed for injured Palestinians in Gaza, with about 150 leaving for medical treatment. The reopening follows Israeli strikes and a fragile ceasefire, amid ongoing regional tensions and renewed diplomatic efforts involving the US, Iran, and regional powers.
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European leaders dismiss the idea of a separate European army amid tensions over NATO and US threats to Greenland. They emphasize NATO's chain of command and U.S. support as vital for European security, rejecting calls for a new military structure. The debate highlights ongoing transatlantic tensions.
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Labour is rolling out additional free breakfast clubs to 500 schools, benefiting 300,000 students, especially in disadvantaged areas. Meanwhile, the government cancels 46 free schools projects, including 18 special schools, saving around £600 million. The education Bill also proposes tighter controls on academies, raising concerns about school freedoms.
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Elon Musk's SpaceX is in talks to merge with his AI company xAI, aiming to create a vertically integrated tech giant. The deal, valued over $1 trillion, could fund space-based AI data centers and support Musk's vision of an AI-powered future, with a potential IPO planned for this year.
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Target's new CEO, Michael Fiddelke, addresses ongoing unrest in Minneapolis following federal immigration enforcement, a fatal police shooting during protests, and community concerns. Leaders call for de-escalation amid protests, economic impacts, and political controversy, as Target navigates a turbulent social and economic landscape.
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Iran has announced a live fire drill in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, prompting warnings from the US military about potential risks. The drill involves Iran's Revolutionary Guard amid ongoing regional tensions over energy routes. The US warns against unsafe behavior near its forces and vessels. The incident is under investigation.
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Multiple earthquakes, including a 4.2-magnitude quake, struck near San Ramon early Monday morning. The tremors, part of an ongoing swarm, caused delays in BART trains but no major damage or injuries have been reported. The region has a history of seismic activity and recent swarms.
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As of early February 2026, U.S. federal judges have issued preliminary injunctions allowing construction to resume on four major East Coast offshore wind projects halted by the Trump administration over national security concerns. The Sunrise Wind project, which was losing $2.5 million daily, was cleared to restart by Judge Royce Lamberth. These rulings challenge the administration's claims and support the continuation of projects critical to regional clean energy goals.
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New Mexico's upcoming trial against Meta, scheduled to start February 9, 2026, centers on allegations that the social media giant created a harmful environment for children through its platforms. The case involves undercover investigations and could influence future legal actions nationwide and globally.
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Recent studies reveal significant advances in cancer therapies, including gene editing and microbiome-based treatments, alongside promising COVID-19 interventions like metformin to prevent long COVID. Meanwhile, rising early-onset colon cancer and melanoma cases highlight urgent screening needs. These developments could reshape future healthcare strategies.
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Over 50 people at Archbishop Riordan High School in San Francisco have latent TB, with three active cases. In-person classes are suspended until February 20, and testing is ongoing. The risk to the public remains low, but officials emphasize prompt treatment for active TB.
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A federal indictment reveals a former flight attendant used fake credentials to access multiple US airlines and board flights without proper verification. Experts warn this exposes flaws in airline security systems, raising concerns about potential terrorist threats and security lapses in the aviation industry.
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A high school in California faces controversy over transgender athlete participation, leading to legal action and national debate. Meanwhile, nationwide youth sports participation, especially in girls' basketball, continues to decline amid social and economic challenges. These stories highlight ongoing tensions in school sports policies and youth engagement.
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A severe winter storm caused over 9,000 flight cancellations across the US, with major hubs like Dallas-Fort Worth and New York heavily impacted. Airlines face operational disruptions and compensation issues, as authorities expect schedules to normalize by midweek.
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Recent property listings highlight shifting preferences in luxury living, from historic city homes in Cincinnati to beachfront estates in Florida, and eco-friendly Scottish retreats. These listings reflect evolving demands for accessibility, sustainability, and unique design, with some buyers facing trade-offs due to initial low-interest mortgage deals.
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London's nightlife initiatives face hurdles amid concerns over safety, community control, and cultural shifts. Meanwhile, New York's parks struggle with drug-related issues, and UK arts face inequality. These stories highlight ongoing urban and social tensions in major cities.
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A severe cold snap persists across the eastern US, causing over 110 deaths, widespread power outages, and significant property damage. The storm has led to record low temperatures, snow, and coastal erosion, with ongoing risks into early February. Authorities warn of dangerous conditions and ongoing recovery efforts.
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Tennessee basketball coach Rick Barnes made a joke about players betting on games after a loss, amid heightened concerns over college sports betting scandals. He quickly retracted the remark, emphasizing the need for smarter play amid recent point-shaving charges and betting controversies.
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A 72-foot fishing vessel, Lily Jean, sank off Cape Ann, Massachusetts, during freezing conditions. One crew member was found dead, and six others are missing after a search covering 1,000 square miles. The incident is under investigation, with harsh weather and possible ice buildup suspected factors.
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Former President Donald Trump urged Republicans to 'take over' voting in at least 15 states, claiming election fraud and advocating for federal control despite constitutional limits. His comments follow recent FBI raids on election records and his persistent false claims about the 2020 election results.
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The White House posted a manipulated, AI-generated image of civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong crying after her arrest, raising concerns about misinformation and government trust. The image was defended by officials despite criticism, highlighting ongoing issues with AI-driven disinformation in political communication.
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The CDC reports that U.S. life expectancy increased to 79 years in 2024, driven by declines in COVID-19, drug overdoses, and other causes of death. Despite improvements, the U.S. still lags behind other developed nations, with ongoing public health challenges remaining.
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The US government’s recent immigration crackdown in Minnesota targets refugees, leading to arrests and legal challenges. A judge issued a temporary restraining order, halting the operation and ordering the release of detained refugees. The case highlights tensions over refugee rights and immigration enforcement policies.
