The Syrian regime has been documented by the UN war crimes team to have used banned chlorine gas, further escalating concerns about its actions in the ongoing conflict. This development comes as Lebanon reports an increase in Israeli violations of a ceasefire, with five more incidents reported despite efforts to maintain peace. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister of Lebanon visited Damascus on his first trip since before the Syrian war began, highlighting the complex regional dynamics at play. In Gaza, there have been 4,500 amputations reported due to Israel's actions, which many are characterizing as a genocide. Additionally, an Israeli strike in Lebanon resulted in the deaths of five people and injured 16 others, marking another tragectory violation of a ceasefire agreement.
https://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/eu-ministers-to-discuss-lifting-of-syria-sanctions-eu-foreign-policy-chief-18253001The Taliban have expressed a positive view of India as a "significant regional partner" after top officials from the two countries met. Meanwhile, in another development, rescuers are searching for trapped miners at an Indian coal mine where one body has been recovered, raising fears of fatalities. Additionally, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is set to visit India to discuss issues including China's dams during his trip.
https://www.trtworld.com/asia/bangladesh-summons-indian-envoy-over-building-fences-along-border-18253022Turkey has brokered a peace deal between Somalia and Ethiopia, marking a significant achievement in the region's efforts to resolve long-standing conflicts. This development comes as other global powers have struggled to find a solution. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron sparked controversy by labeling African countries ungrateful for aid provided by European nations. In Nigeria, dozens of people were kidnapped by armed men in Zamfara state. The Sudanese foreign minister has welcomed Turkey's offer to mediate peace talks between Sudan and other parties. Earthquakes have prompted evacuations in Ethiopia, while Ghana has announced that it will grant visa-free entry to citizens from African countries.
https://www.trtworld.com/africa/ethiopia-somalia-restore-full-diplomatic-relations-18252836Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized that regional countries have a key role in facilitating the transition process for the Syrian people during a meeting with foreign ministers from 12 Middle Eastern countries in Riyadh. He stated that these countries bear primary responsibility for stabilizing and rebuilding Syria, which should be based on principles of territorial integrity, unity, and sovereignty. To increase aid effectiveness, Fidan suggested establishing a coordination mechanism or committees to prioritize sectors such as energy and humanitarian aid while exempting them from sanctions.
https://www.fakti.bg/en/world/941047-turkey-we-are-ready-to-support-syria-on-its-difficult-path-to-stabilityThe US has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Taiwan's self-defence capabilities by providing significant security assistance. This includes the first-ever use of Foreign Military Financing (FMF) and Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) for Taiwan, as stated in a White House announcement on January 12, 2025. The move is consistent with the US' longstanding one-China policy, which has been maintained despite China's objections to US-Taiwan relations.
https://www.lokmattimes.com/international/us-reaffirms-commitment-to-taiwans-self-defence-provides-first-ever-foreign-military-financing/The United States has announced that it will ease the enforcement of restrictions affecting essential services such as energy and sanitation in Syria. However, officials say they will wait for progress before easing sanctions further. The European Union's top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, said that if Syria's new rulers take steps to form an inclusive government that protects minorities, the EU could begin lifting sanctions. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the need for a "smart approach" that would enable aid to reach Syrians, while also maintaining sanctions against those responsible for serious crimes during the civil war. Saudi Arabia has hosted talks on supporting Syria's recovery and is negotiating how to provide long-term support, including creating a conducive environment for the return of Syrian refugees.
https://www.firstpost.com/world/saudi-arabia-urges-lifting-of-sanctions-at-talks-with-regional-eu-diplomats-13852154.htmlTop diplomats from the US, UK, France, Germany, and the European Union met on Thursday in Rome to discuss Syria's new administration. The meeting comes after a landmark conference hosted by Jordan in December, where regional players expressed concerns about Syria's new rulers and their path to international recognition. Syria's new government is seeking a lifting of Western sanctions to facilitate international funding. However, Germany, Italy, and France have pushed for EU sanctions on Syria to be relaxed, but a final decision requires approval from the entire bloc. The US has issued a six-month exemption for transactions with governing institutions in Syria to ease humanitarian assistance.
https://channelnewsasia.com/world/syria-talks-being-held-riyadh-western-and-regional-participation-4852711The United States has reaffirmed its support for Taiwan's defence capabilities, emphasizing its commitment to strengthening regional security efforts in the Indo-Pacific region. This commitment was reiterated by the White House, which highlighted various forms of security assistance provided to Taiwan, including Foreign Military Financing and International Military Education and Training programs. The US President, Joe Biden, has identified the Indo-Pacific as a crucial region for both the country's and the world's future.
https://www.lokmattimes.com/international/us-reaffirms-support-for-taiwans-defence-capabilities-strengthening-regional-security-efforts/Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized the significance of a strategic partnership between her country and the US, highlighting its potential to enhance economic and security ties between the two nations.
https://www.fakti.bg/en/world/941014-japan-india-australia-boost-diplomatic-ties-with-new-trump-administration