Little cheer for Year of the Tiger in Hong Kong as COVID bites

The government's zero COVID drive has left people with few options to celebrate their biggest holiday of the year.

US judge rejects plea agreement for Ahmaud Arbery’s killer

Judge says plea deal for Travis McMichael in hate crimes case would discount wishes of Arbery's family at sentencing.

Mexico’s economy enters technical recession as GDP shrinks again

A technical recession is defined as two consecutive quarters of contractions.

California moves to dismantle US’s largest death row

Goal is to turn section of San Quentin State Prison into a 'positive, healing environment', California officials say.

US will designate Qatar as major non-NATO ally, Biden tells emir

During White House meeting with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim, Joe Biden calls Qatar a 'good friend and reliable partner'.

Wall Street ends volatile month on a high note

Dip buyers came out of the woodwork on Monday, snatching up tech stocks and lifting the Nasdaq 3.3 percent.

Ecuador oil spill pollutes river, protected Amazon area: Ministry

Ecuador's environment ministry says pipeline spill is 'major' event and requests company measure its full impact.

Japan’s factory output dips amid doubts over economic recovery

Factory output in the world's third-largest economy lost 1 percent in December from the previous month.

‘Felt like a bullet’: Bhutan PM mourns kingdom’s rare COVID death

Himalayan kingdom that has recorded just four coronavirus deaths sees surge in infections linked to the Omicron variant.

UAE intercepts Houthi missile as Israeli president visits

Iran-backed Houthis say they plan new military operation inside UAE as seven-year-long conflict in Yemen deepens.

Asia shares in cautious mood, oil keeps climbing

China's factory activity slows in January as resurgence of COVID-19 cases and tough lockdowns hit production and demand.

Portugal’s ruling Socialists win surprise victory in snap poll

Party secures strong new mandate following higher than expected turnout after people with COVID were allowed to vote.

‘We can be the change’: Indigenous bikers lead Australia protests

Indigenous motorcycle clubs lead march as community marks the 50th anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy.

Police arrest Macau’s No 2 junket boss in crackdown

Authorities in the Chinese territory are stepping up a crackdown on illicit capital outflows from mainland China.

North Korea says Sunday test was Hwasong-12 missile

Test marks first time the nuclear armed country has launched a weapon of that size since 2017.

Myanmar’s military turns to Buddhism in bid for legitimacy

Generals court country's monks to try and win support in an environment where 'almost everybody hates them'.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog in the UAE on first visit

President Isaac Herzog's visit comes some 16 months after the UAE decided to forge diplomatic relations with Israel.

Is democracy dead in Myanmar?

One year after coup, the junta continues to crack down on dissent.

Nervous calm in Ukrainian front line village as war looms

In the Ukrainian village of Zolote, residents and soldiers wait for clues about what happens next.

‘Bomb cyclone’ blizzard blankets eastern US in snow

One of the strongest winter storms in years triggered transport chaos and power outages across the eastern US.

AFCON: Burkina Faso, Cameroon advance to semi-finals

Burkina Faso go to the semis for the third time in the last five editions.

UK to offer major NATO deployment amid Ukraine crisis

PM Boris Johnson says move will send a 'clear message' to Vladimir Putin as Russian troops mass at Ukraine border.

Singapore migrant workers labour under COVID curbs

While most of the city-state has returned to quasi-pre-pandemic life, migrant workers' freedoms remain restricted.

Pyongyang continues January launch spree as new rockets spotted

South Korean military and Japanese coast guard detect what would be the seventh launch this month.

Thousands of flights canceled as Eastern US braces for snowstorm

The National Weather Service warns of 'whiteout conditions and nearly impossible travel at times' in the coming days.

What’s driving the volatility in stock markets?

Stocks in the US have got off to their worst start since 2016. Asian and European markets racked up some losses, too.

US plans to reroute $67m in aid towards Lebanon’s armed forces

Discontent has been brewing in the security forces as Lebanon's currency has slumped, driving down soldiers' wages.

Jonas Gahr Store: Can NATO stop a Russian invasion of Ukraine?

Norway’s prime minister discusses NATO’s stand on the Russia-Ukraine crisis and Oslo’s role in other global conflicts.

Rights groups warn Biden against re-blacklisting Yemen’s Houthis

Labelling rebels 'terrorists' would disrupt flow of aid and basic goods to war-torn Yemen, advocates warn US president.

Thousands attend Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh’s funeral

Vietnamese religious icon was globally recognised for helping spread the practice of mindfulness in the West.

US cancels $130m military aid for Egypt over rights concerns

Decision to cancel aid comes just days after the US approved a massive $2.5bn arms sale to the country.

UN rights chief says response to Myanmar crisis ‘ineffectual’

Michelle Bachelet demands quick restoration of civilian rule in the country almost a year after the military takeover.

Reports of casualties as guards clash at Kyrgyz-Tajik border

Four Kyrgyz servicemen reported wounded while Tajikistan said there were casualties among its civilians, border guards.

US defence chief orders military to better protect civilians

Lloyd Austin's memo comes amid condemnation of US drone attacks that killed civilians in Middle East, Afghanistan.

Wall Street’s volatility streak continues as stocks close lower

Investors are juggling upbeat economic news with mixed corporate earnings, geopolitical unrest and a hawkish US Fed.

Apple smashes earnings estimates with record sales

The company's overall fiscal first-quarter revenue was $123.9bn, higher than analysts' average estimate of $118.7bn.

Anti-vaccine Canada truckers praised by Tesla’s Musk

Hundreds of truck drivers, converging on Ottawa from several directions, are due to arrive on Friday.

Tesla posts record earnings, sees supply chain issues ahead

Shares of the electric vehicle company fell 2.7 percent in after-hours trading.

Prince Andrew seeking jury trial in US sex abuse case

Britain's Prince Andrew denies accusations that he sexually abused Virginia Giuffre over 20 years ago when she was 17.

US and NATO deliver responses to Russian demands over Ukraine

US rules out Russian demand to halt NATO's eastward expansion, but says it is open to talks on arms control.

US stocks erase gains on hawkish Powell signals

The S&P 500 fell after rallying more than two percent earlier Wednesday.

Hondurans concerned legislative crisis threatens new government

Xiomara Castro, a left-wing leader, is due to be sworn in on Thursday to become the country's first female president.

Game over for India’s booming online gaming Industry?

Wave of laws, rules threatens to kill large parts of India's rapidly growing online gaming industry.

US Navy working to recover F35 from South China Sea

Multimillion-dollar fighter jet fell into the disputed waters after a landing accident in which seven sailors were hurt.

Aboriginal Tent Embassy: 50 years of Indigenous protest

One of the world's longest protests continues as Aboriginal people battle continued discrimination in Australia.

Canada: Indigenous community finds 93 potential unmarked graves

Williams Lake First Nation unveils findings of preliminary search at former 'residential school' known for abuse.

Microsoft exceeds quarterly revenue estimates on cloud growth

The switch to working from home has attracted more users to Microsoft's office communication software and services.

Taiwan vice president heads to Honduras to work on shaky alliance

Honduran President-elect Xiomara Castro had floated the idea of re-establishing ties with China, before backtracking.

IMF urges El Salvador to strip Bitcoin’s legal tender status

El Salvador last year sought a $1.3bn IMF loan, but talks have been stymied by the lender’s Bitcoin concerns.

Party on: New revelations heap pressure on UK PM Boris Johnson

Birthday party revelations come the week an official report into parties held during lockdown is to be published.

Why is Mexico still the most dangerous country for journalists?

After three killings this month, press advocates call for end to impunity in murder of media workers.

US: Virginia school districts sue over governor’s mask order

Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin's executive order allows parents to opt out of masking requirements in schools.

Halliburton lifts dividend for first time in over seven years

The oil squeeze is proving a boon for the world's top provider of fracking services.

US stocks come back to finish higher after volatile trading day

Markets were rattled by geopolitical tensions and the US Federal Reserve's campaign against inflation.

Indian women are storming the gates of the investor ‘boys club’

As female founders face a daily bias in raising funds, women investors are stepping up to crack the problem.

Objects of affection: The things that refugees hold close

As people battle freezing temperatures at a makeshift camp in France, a scooter, football or necklace bring hope.

AFCON: Tunisia shock Nigeria to enter quarter finals with 1-0 win

Tunisia to play Burkina Faso in the quarterfinals after knocking out three-time AFCON champions Nigeria.

UAE says intercepted and destroyed Houthi missiles

Defence ministry says it will take all necessary measures to protect the UAE from attacks.

Australian PM’s WeChat account hijacked and renamed

Government senator describes blocking of account as case of "foreign interference" in Australian democracy.

How a billionaire’s cruise empire imploded in Hong Kong

Once-thriving Genting Hong Kong is headed for liquidation after seeing business evaporate during the pandemic.

Nuclear deal unlikely unless Iran releases US prisoners: Report

US Special Envoy says agreement 'hard to imagine' while four 'innocent Americans held hostage'.

Arab League delays annual summit amid surge in COVID-19 cases

The first Arab summit since the pandemic began is being delayed again because of rising coronavirus cases.

Yemen: Survivors slam Saudi coalition attack on detention centre

Survivors of detention centre air raids denounce the attack in Saada province as yet 'another crime'.

German navy chief resigns over controversial Ukraine comments

Vice admiral came under fire after saying Putin deserves 'respect' and Kyiv will never regain Crimea.

S Korea pays Iran’s delinquent $18m UN dues with frozen funds

Iran to regain vote at the UN General Assembly after Seoul pays $18m dues using $7bn funds frozen due to US sanctions.

Malaysia’s ex-PM Mahathir stable after latest hospital admission

96-year-old former leader has been receiving treatment at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur in recent days.

New Zealand PM Ardern cancels wedding amid latest Omicron curbs

'Red setting' not a lockdown but indoor hospitality settings, events will be capped at 100 people with vaccine passes.

The day the world went dark: Survivor recalls disaster in Tonga

Resident of Tongatapu says deafening sound, rain of sulphur ash followed Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai's eruption.

Push for tougher sentences in Indonesia sex assault cases

Slew of cases involving young girls and boys at religiously-linked schools has horrified parents.

‘Catastrophe’: Peru oil spill clean-up to take weeks

Government says Repsol spilled about 6,000 barrels of oil into the ocean last week near its La Pampilla refinery.

Myanmar sentences lawmaker from Aung San Suu Kyi’s party to death

Military court finds NLD's Phyo Zeyar Thaw and activist Kyaw Min Yu guilty of terrorism in harshest sentences since coup

Saudi-led coalition denies Yemen air raid; UN, US call for calm

State news agency says facility was not on OCHA 'no-target list' as calls grow for a de-escalation of violence.

Thich Nhat Hanh, influential Buddhist monk, dies at 95

A poet and peace activist, Thich Nhat Hanh became one of the most influential people in Buddhism.

US suspends flights by China carriers after Beijing COVID move

Authorities in US to cut some Chinese flights after Beijing took action against US carriers over COVID cases.

Wall Street caps worst week since start of coronavirus pandemic

Tech shares saw the worst of the selloff this week, adding to what has already been a very volatile start to 2022.

Intel to build $20BN chip factory in Ohio

The US chipmaker hopes to alleviate a global shortage of chips powering everything from phones to cars.

US charges Texas man with threatening Georgia election officials

Charge is first by a special US Justice Department task force aimed at stopping threats against election workers.

M&M’s makeover: Candy maker revamps mascots with less sexist look

Some of the changes to the M&M's characters include making two of them less stereotypically feminine.

Brazilian samba singer Elza Soares dies aged 91

Elza Soares, who recorded 36 albums, was an outspoken advocate who denounced racism and violence against women.

Amazon to open its first-ever clothing store at a California mall

Amazon used to compete with brick-and-mortar stores, and now it's setting up shop.

Netflix misses subscriber target, shares fall on weak forecast

The world's largest streaming service added 8.3 million customers from October to December.

US charges second man in killing of Haitian President Moise

Dual Haitian-Chilean citizen is second man charged in the US over plot to assassinate Jovenel Moise in July last year.

COVID leaves lasting scars as Biden marks first year in office

Victims' families say they are still grappling with deep pain as US President Joe Biden vows to keep fighting the virus.

Oil’s rally falters as stockpiles rise, Biden pledges support

Despite a mixed picture on the overall oil inventory side, United States demand shows little sign of slowing down.

China, Russia block US bid to sanction North Koreans at UN

US is seeking UN travel ban and asset freeze on individuals it says are involved in North Korea's missile programme.

Biden ‘not there yet’ on easing tariffs on Chinese goods

US president says China not meeting commitments under a Phase 1 trade deal signed by his predecessor Donald Trump.

Indonesia jails prominent former JI member over Bali bombings

Zulkarnaen, who had been on the run for almost 20 years before he was caught, was jailed for 15 years.

New Zealand aid flight on way to Tonga, images reveal devastation

Australia also sending relief flight as recovery effort accelerates in wake of eruption and tsunami.

5 key takeaways from US President Biden’s news conference

Biden faces slumping poll numbers as he enters second year in office amid tensions with Russia and rising COVID cases.

Wall Street ends sharply lower with Nasdaq confirming correction

A correction is confirmed when an index closes 10 percent or more below its record closing level.

Biden hails ‘enormous progress’ during first year in office

Facing slumping approval ratings on eve of presidency's one-year mark, Joe Biden vows to tackle COVID and rising prices.

Fair trial doubts as Kem Sokha treason case resumes in Cambodia

Opposition leader back in court after almost two years during which the government continued its crackdown on critics.

US launches website to provide free at-home COVID tests

With new website, launched one day ahead of official date, Americans can order up to four free test kits per household.

Colombia’s Ingrid Betancourt announces presidential bid

Betancourt was kidnapped by FARC rebels in 2002 while campaigning for president, and held captive for six years.

Apple tells US lawmakers antitrust laws will harm user privacy

If US legislation becomes law, it would make it difficult for Apple to collect its 15% to 30% App Store commission.

Grammy Awards pushed to April due to coronavirus

Music awards ceremony is rescheduled to April 3 in Las Vegas amid rising COVID-19 infections linked to Omicron variant.

What if prisons were more humane?

Advocates for prison-based rehabilitation programmes say it’s time to rethink ideas of crime and punishment.

Hong Kong police arrest two former air crew over COVID breaches

Arrests come after Cathay Pacific said in January it fired two air crew for allegedly violating COVID-19 protocols.

Latest test involved tactical guided missiles: North Korea

Leader Kim Jong Un has said 'military muscle' necessary for self-defence, but repeated weapons tests increase concern.

‘Picking quarrels’: China critics overseas at increasing risk

New report finds Chinese authorities trying to coerce critics thousands of miles from home into returning.

Down but not out: China’s Alibaba looks towards challenging 2022

Chinese tech giant's deep pockets and ability to adapt are seen as key to weathering the tough year ahead.

South American health networks struggling as Omicron cases rise

Omicron coronavirus variant is fuelling rising numbers of infections across the region, including among health workers.

China’s birth rate drops to record low

Latest data comes as government implores people to have more childnen after decades of doing the opposite.

China’s birth rate drops to record low

Natality in 2021 dropped to a record low of 7.52 births per 1,000 people.

Tonga calls for ‘immediate aid’ after volcanic eruption, tsunami

Official says there is an immediate need for drinking water and food, as efforts begin to assess scale of damage.

The poor die from COVID while the rich get richer, Oxfam warns

Vaccine divide is costing lives and supercharging inequalities worldwide, a new report warns.

North Korea fires suspected ballistic missile: Japan

South Korea notes launch of an 'unidentified projectile' on Monday morning as Pyongyang defies weapons testing ban.

In Pictures: Tonga volcano eruption triggers worldwide tsunami

Satellite images showed a plume of ash, steam and gas rising like a mushroom above the Pacific waters.

Somalia government spokesman wounded in blast in capital: Reports

Explosion on a Mogadishu road was caused by a suicide bomber targetting Mohamed Ibrahim Moalimuu.

Yemen’s Houthis reject UN call to free UAE-flagged ship

Houthi rebels say the Rwabee was carrying military equipment, accusing the UN of siding with 'murderers'.

Can the US solve its unprecedented blood shortage?

The American Red Cross says the country’s blood supply is dangerously low.

Australia court rules Novak Djokovic to be deported

World number one tennis star was scheduled to play his first-round Australian Open match on Monday night.

Tonga volcano eruption caused ‘significant damage’, says Ardern

New Zealand's prime minister says volcanic eruption damaged Tonga's capital, but there are no reports of deaths.

Novak Djokovic returns to court to fight Australia deportation

Men's top tennis player launches appeal to allow him to remain in Melbourne and defend his Australian Open title.

Man takes hostages at Texas synagogue

Officials say hostage-taker is demanding the release of a Pakistani woman who was convicted of trying to kill US troops.

Why are people quitting their jobs in record numbers?

Millions of mainly young people around the world are rethinking the way they work and live.

US CDC urges use of ‘most protective mask you can’: COVID updates

Recommendation stops short of advocating nationwide usage of N95 respirators even as new cases pile up in record number.

Ousted Myanmar leader Suu Kyi faces five new corruption charges

Five new charges against country's ousted leader involve the government's hire, purchase and maintenance of helicopter.

North Korea confirms missile test from train amid fresh sanctions

Pyongyang says drill aimed at 'checking and judging' proficiency of the weapons that hit a 'set target' in the East Sea.

Djokovic returns to detention as he fights Australia deportation

Prime Minister Scott Morrison's government revoked Djokovic's visa for a second time amid public outcry.

US: Far-right Oath Keepers founder pleads not guilty to sedition

Stewart Rhodes is charged with seditious conspiracy in relation to the US Capitol attack on January 6 last year.

‘Another hellish day’: Argentina swelters under record heat wave

Many towns are posting their highest temperatures since record-keeping began, sometimes up to 45 degrees Celsius.

Is the ‘Great Resignation’ a real thing?

Americans are rethinking their relationships with employers and work.

HRW slams Pakistan over dissent crackdown, alleged rights abuses

Pakistan has come under fire from rights groups within and outside country since Imran Khan came to power in 2018.

WHO adds new drugs to COVID treatments amid Omicron surge

Latest recommendations prompt new calls for patent waivers to allow more people access to treatments.

Two Israeli officers killed in ‘friendly fire’ at West Bank base

Two commanders were misidentified as Palestinian attackers near the Nabi Musa base, Israeli military says.

German court sentences former Syrian colonel to life in prison

Landmark ruling sees Anwar Raslan convicted for crimes against humanity in Damascus jail a decade ago.

Chinese woman stuck in blind date’s home by abrupt COVID lockdown

Parts of Zhengzhou went into sudden lockdown while woman was having dinner at her date's residence.

Hundreds protest in India’s Nagaland against controversial law

AFSPA gives the military sweeping powers to search, seize and even shoot suspects on sight without fear of prosecution.

Myanmar military replaces air force chief amid bombing campaign

Maung Maung Kyaw, a general under US sanctions, reportedly removed from the post he had held since 2018.

Taliban seeks greater role in distribution of Afghan foreign aid

Taliban proposes joint body of its officials and international representatives to coordinate the planned aid.

Moon wants to formally end the Korean War. Can it bring peace?

South Korean president is pushing for end of war declaration, but critics worry it will undermine alliance with the US.

Beyond the Park Hotel: Australia’s immigration detention network

With tennis player Djokovic freed, refugees held in indefinite detention wonder whether they will ever be released.

Nigeria ends its Twitter ban after seven months

Nigeria suspended Twitter after it removed a post from the president that threatened to punish regional secessionists.

US approves release of five more Guantanamo detainees

The five men from Yemen, Somalia and Kenya are among 39 inmates still held by the US at notorious facility in Cuba.

Burkinabe soldiers held over plot to ‘destabilise’ institutions

Authorities say the alleged plot was uncovered after 'a member of the gang' denounced the plan.

Sri Lanka: 2019 Easter bombings trial adjourned

Nearly 270 people, including 45 foreigners, were killed in the string of bombings targeting hotels and churches in 2019.

Elderly Palestinian man dies during arrest by Israeli army

The 80-year-old man was assaulted and died of a heart attack in a village near Ramallah, his family members say.

China blocks some US flights after passengers get COVID

American Airlines and United Airlines Holdings have had at least six flights barred by Chinese regulators.

Kim backs ‘military muscle’ as he watches hypersonic missile test

North Korean leader shown at test launch for first time in nearly two years underlining commitment to advanced weaponry.

‘Here to serve’: Floods put Malaysia youth party in spotlight

Newly-registered Muda joins rush of volunteers to help thousands affected by floods amid sluggish official response.

US judge dismisses Facebook’s request to throw out monopoly case

Facebook must face the government’s monopoly lawsuit alleging that the company abused its dominance, a judge ruled.

US Supreme Court denies appeal of woman who joined ISIL

Hoda Muthana, who left the US to join ISIL in 2014, has been in a protracted legal battle to return to the country.

UN raps Tunisia over arrest of ex-justice minister

UN expresses 'concerns' about human rights abuses in Tunisia, demands held Ennahdha official to be released.

20 years on, Biden must close Guantánamo once and for all

It is a disgraceful legacy that we cannot afford to pass on to future generations.

India may reconsider some investments from China: Report

India imposed curbs amid a bloody border standoff with China and also to avert risks of opportunistic takeovers.

UN launches nearly $5bn aid appeal for Afghanistan

UN aid chief Martin Griffiths appeals to international community, saying 'full-blown humanitarian catastrophe looms'.

A million set to throng India’s Ganges for holy dip despite COVID

Nearly a million Hindus expected to gather on banks of river for pilgrimage in the state reporting second-highest cases.

UN extends Syria cross-border aid without Security Council vote

Bab al-Hawa crossing serves millions in Idlib, allowing aid passage without going through gov't channels in Damascus.

Preview: Egypt take on Nigeria in AFCON Group D opener

Match at the State Roumde Adjia in Garoua will mark the ninth time that the two sides have played each other at AFCON.

For Lion Air crash relatives, Boeing comeback stirs raw memories

Indonesian authorities' decision to lift ban on Boeing 737 Max follows similar moves around the world.

Opposition wins tense Venezuela vote in Chavez home region

The vote in Barinas marks the first victory for the opposition in 23 years.

Common cold T-cells can protect against COVID, study says: Live

High levels of T-cells from common cold coronaviruses can provide protection against COVID-19, according to research.

Mali ‘strongly condemns’ ECOWAS sanctions; closes land borders

Mali's transitional authorities recall ambassadors to neighbouring states, announce border closure amid rising tensions.

Pakistan asks IMF to delay meeting amid failure to cut spending

International body was due to meet on January 12 to consider releasing $1bn of Pakistan's $6bn bailout.

Pakistan sets up committee to investigate Murree tourists deaths

The committee has a week to determine responsibility after at least 21 people died in freezing temperatures.

Bosnian Serbs hold nationalist celebration despite ban, sanctions

Constitutional Court has declared the holiday illegal as it discriminates against Muslim Bosniak and Catholic Croats.

West African leaders to discuss Mali crisis after coup d’etat

ECOWAS meeting comes after increasing tensions over the timetable for restoring civilian rule in Mali after a 2020 coup.

Iran ‘likely’ smuggling weapons to Yemen: UN report

UN experts say weapons seized in the Arabian Sea confirm Tehran exports arms to Yemen, Wall Street Journal reports.

Snow-trapped tourists rescued in Pakistan

Heavy snow buried vehicles with 21 people killed and thousands stranded.

The radio station at the heart of an India-GDR friendship

The untold story of a shared history is now coming to light.

War games, missile deployments on the table in Russia talks: US

US open to talks with Russia on curtailing missile deployments and military manoeuvres, officials say.

About 200 dead in bandit attacks in northwest Nigeria: Residents

More than 140 people were buried following attacks in Zamfara state and many remain unaccounted for.

‘Speak up’: Australia refugees urge Djokovic to advocate for them

Rights group says controversy over tennis star is the 'perfect opportunity' for Australia to create more humane policy.

Hate speech and online abuse: India’s growing extremism problem

Calls to kill minorities, weak mainstream media and negligent officials in India. Plus, Russia’s media blacklist.

Hospitalisations surge for unvaccinated American children

Worrisome trend in children too young to be vaccinated underscores the need for people to get their shots.

S Africa: Planned auction of key to Mandela’s prison cell halted

Prison key that kept the human rights icon locked up reportedly left South Africa without the 'necessary permits'.

What lies ahead for the global economy in 2022?

2021 was a year of economic recovery - but also a year of supply chain bottlenecks, soaring inflation and Omicron.

Kazakhstan detains former security chief for treason

Security forces appeared to reclaim the streets of Kazakhstan's main city Almaty after days of violence.

Explosion in China’s Chongqing kills 16: state media

Building housing a canteen in China's southwest collapsed after an explosion suspected to have been caused by gas leak.

Duterte wants unvaccinated jailed as COVID rate hits record high

The Philippines' 40 percent positivity rate - an all-time high for the third straight day - has been driven by Omicron.

Airbnb questioned over Xinjiang business amid Uighur ‘genocide’

More than a dozen of Airbnb's listings in Xinjiang are on land reportedly owned by a company under US sanctions list.

Drowning in debt, South Korean businesses revolt over COVID rules

Restaurants, cafes, bars and gyms must close by 9pm until at least January 16 under latest pandemic restrictions.

Kazakh leader tells troops to shoot without warning: Live updates

President Tokayev issues ominous order as fresh violence breaks out in Almaty and the death toll rises.

Canada approved reparations – the US can be next

The American case for reparations can draw encouragement and examples from Canada.

Pakistan flag carrier applying to resume Europe flights: Minister

Minister says PIA application follows International Civil Aviation Organization clearing the airline in safety audit.

Evangelicals in Brazil are stronger today than ever before

The appointment of André Mendonça to the Supreme Court was a turning point for the evangelical movement in Brazil.

Football: The 11 players to watch at AFCON 2021

Away from the spotlight on Salah, Mane and Mahrez, here are some other footballers who could light up AFCON.

Alleged creator of app ‘selling’ Muslim women arrested in India

Engineering student, 20, is suspected to be behind 'Bulli Bai' app that put more than 100 Muslim women 'on sale'.

US accuses New York man of tracking opponents of Egypt’s Sisi

US Justice Department charges Pierre Girgis with acting as a foreign agent for Egypt without notifying US government.

Myanmar’s military coup prolongs misery for Rohingya in Rakhine

Mostly Muslim minority find themselves target of renewed military intimidation over ties to rebel armed group

Biden administration slaps US travel bans on 8 Cuban officials

US State Department accuses targeted Cuban officials of being involved in repression of opposition protesters.

Is India targeting foreign-funded NGOs?

Organisations face uncertain future after losing licences allowing them to access accounts.

Profile: Novak Djokovic, tennis court warrior dividing opinion

Djokovic's staggering achievements on court have often been overshadowed by a series of blunders and missteps off it.

Infographic: Wordle word game tips and tricks

How to tackle the online word game that has been gaining popularity on social media.

Nigeria labels bandit gangs ‘terrorists’ in bid to stem violence

Official gazette refers to criminal gangs who carry out kidnappings of students and cattle rustling, among other crimes.

Tunisia doctors have ‘grave fears’ for hunger-striking politician

Noureddine Bhiri's wife and children start sit-in at hospital where senior Ennahdha official is being held.

Who can we trust in 2022?

Can we still trust our public institutions in the new year?

Tunisia’s UGTT criticises president’s road map out of crisis

The trade union says the president's proposal will not guarantee Tunisia's return to democracy.

In Pictures: Hunger, poverty continue to stalk desperate Afghans

A lack of funding batters Afghanistan’s already troubled economy, leading to increasing poverty.

Yemen: Saudi-led coalition targets Sanaa after vessel seized

Coalition says it destroyed workshops and warehouses for drones in response to a vessel in the Red Sea being seized.

What role should the private sector play in education?

Private actors, if left unchecked, can fragment educational systems. That is why we need strong government regulation.

‘Third wave has set in’: India’s new COVID cases double in 4 days

India reports 58,097 new cases as Omicron looks set to overtake Delta as the dominant strain in the country.

Despite uncertainty, Denmark’s Eriksen sets sights on Qatar 2022

Former Inter Milan footballer had a heart-starter device implanted following his dramatic collapse at Euro 2020.

Tesla criticised for opening showroom in China’s Xinjiang region

Council on American-Islamic Relations accuses carmaker of 'supporting genocide'.

S Africa parliament: Second fire contained, suspect due in court

City officials say new blaze brought under control, teams scour complex to extinguish any remaining hot spots.

Defector who returned to N Korea ‘had a difficult life’ in Seoul

Official says man who crossed into North Korea last week was a defector who had struggled in his new life in the South.

Palestinian prisoners launch boycott of Israeli military courts

Hundreds of Palestinian administrative detainees announce boycott as hunger-striking prisoner faces 'imminent' death.

Jailed activist Ramy Shaath to be freed from Egypt detention

Judicial sources say Egyptian-Palestinian campaigner, held for some 30 months, will be deported to France upon release.

As digital lending explodes in India, the threats mount

Apps promising quick cash ballooned in the pandemic but many preyed on first-time borrowers with high interest rates.

Profile: Abdalla Hamdok, Sudan’s outgoing civilian leader

Sudan's prime minister steps down, citing longstanding disagreements with army, slow pace of reforms.

5 Syrian soldiers killed, 20 injured in ISIL attack: State media

A military vehicle in the Badia area came under a rocket attack followed by artillery shelling by ISIL fighters: SANA.

South Africa parliament fire brought ‘under control’

Some 70 firefighters have battled to contain the blaze that broke out in the early hours on Sunday.

Qatar sees spike in COVID cases as it enters ‘third wave’

Health official says cases rising since November but significant spike seen in the last two weeks.

Uncertainty in Sudan as PM resigns: Crisis explained in 600 words

Abdalla Hamdok's resignation marks the latest upheaval in the country's fragile transition to democracy.

Singapore’s economy grows at fastest pace since 2010

The city-state's economy grew 7.2 percent in 2021, rebounding from a 5.4 percent contraction in 2020.

Detained Tunisian politician hospitalised ‘in critical condition’

Bhiri is being 'deprived of his medication' and 'his life is threatened', Ennahdha officials say.

Gas shortage hits Pakistan’s exports, adding to economic stress

About $250m of textiles exports were lost last month after mills in Punjab had to shut for 15 days on fuel shortages.

Lionel Messi, three others at PSG test COVID positive

Defender Juan Bernat, keeper Sergio Rico and midfielder Nathan Bitumazala also returned positive tests.

Shallow earthquake hits southwestern China

The quake struck on the border between Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, which put the magnitude at 5.4 and depth at 38km.

China says ‘positive changes’ as COVID cases ease in Xi’an

New cases in the locked-down city fall to lowest in a week as residents face 11th day under strict home confinement.

Senegal accuse Watford of blocking Sarr’s AFCON participation

Senegalese football federation says it will resort to FIFA if the Premier League club refuses to release the player.

The lineage of failed daughters

Learning to release inherited trauma with love.

In Pictures: Aftermath of the Marshall Fire in Colorado

Officials say that 991 homes were destroyed in Boulder County and 127 more were damaged in the Marshall Fire.

India needs to protect its farmers against neocolonial agendas

Western interference in India’s agricultural policies threatens to destroy small-scale farming and devastate farmers.

Iran calls for UN action on US over killing of Qassem Soleimani

Request comes amid a week of events planned by Iranian officials on second anniversary of Soleimani’s killing.

Tunisia: Calls mount for release of detained Ennahdha official

Ennahdha's Deputy President Bhiri was arrested by plainclothes officers in the capital on Friday.

Unidentified person enters N Korea from South in rare defection

South Korea says it sent a message to North Korea to ensure the safety of the person, but is yet to receive a response.

Israel hits Hamas positions in Gaza after rocket attacks

Israeli air attacks hit 'rocket manufacturing site, military posts' in the besieged Gaza Strip.

French burn fewer cars on New Year’s Eve due to pandemic

A much-lamented tradition that appeared in decline this year, which saw only 874 vehicles burned.

Will COVID-19 permanently change the way we work?

Governments encourage 'working from home' as employees demand better work-life balance.

Thousands rally in Baghdad to mark 2020 killing of Iran general

Marchers call for expulsion of remaining US forces in Iraq as they commemorate General Qassem Soleimani's assassination.

Tunisia launches national consultation on reforms

Wide-ranging process - part of reform package pushed by President Kais Saied - will help into drafting new constitution.

The US opioid epidemic, edition 2021

Those responsible for the opioid-related deaths of hundreds of thousands of Americans are yet to be held accountable.

Taiwan urges China to curb its ‘military adventurism’

China claims Taiwan as its own territory, and increased military and diplomatic pressure to assert sovereignty claims.

Funeral begins for South Africa’s anti-apartheid icon Tutu

Tutu's death triggered grief among South Africans, world leaders, for a life spent fighting injustices.

China welcomes 2022 with worst COVID week since taming virus

Surge has been driven mostly by an outbreak in the northwestern industrial and tech hub of Xi'an.

Maria Grazia Chiuri: Does the devil wear Dior?

Christian Dior’s creative director on whether fashion remains relevant amid the challenges facing the world today.

Omicron dampens new year celebrations amid COVID restrictions

Most festivities, events cancelled or scaled down as Omicron continues to rapidly spread despite restrictions.