The United States is grappling with a severe winter storm, resulting in over 30 fatalities and widespread destruction. According to American media, nearly half of the country remains under severe cold weather conditions, with over 12,000 flights canceled and more than 500,000 people left without electricity. The storm has dumped over a foot of snow in several areas, claiming the lives of 14 people. A winter storm warning has been issued for nearly 20 million people across 44 states, with 24 states declaring emergencies. New York City has recorded an unprecedented 8-15 inches of snowfall, while rural areas have seen temperatures drop as low as -49°C. The Federal Government has closed offices in Washington, and online classes are being conducted in New York City schools.
In a surprise announcement, the Dubai government has declared the city will be divided into 20-minute zones, effectively turning Dubai into a smaller city. In a tragic turn of events, a plane carrying the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Ajit Pawar, crashed before takeoff, with the pilot reportedly stating that the runway was not visible. Hamas has agreed to hand over control of the Gaza Strip to the Palestinian Commission. India has reported its first cases of the Nipah virus, prompting neighboring countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Nepal, to take measures to prevent its spread. The US has expressed concern over a potential free trade and defense agreement between India and the European Union, with US Treasury Secretary Scott Mnuchin stating that European countries are funding their own defense against India.
A massive naval fleet is heading towards Iran, with the US President expressing concerns over the move, citing a lack of contact with the Iranian Special Envoy, Steve Witkoff. In a related development, Iran’s President, Ebrahim Raisi, has spoken with Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, emphasizing the need for regional stability. International security agencies have warned of the spread of organized crime, human trafficking, and fake degree scams targeting Indians. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Chairman, Lt Gen (r) Nazeer Ahmed, has stated that the entire country can be debt-free if Pakistan’s Karachi-based debt is repaid.
The Indian state of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Ajit Pawar, was involved in a fatal plane crash before takeoff, with the pilot reportedly stating that the runway was not visible. India’s Ministry of Health Services has issued a warning and advisory regarding the spread of the Nipah virus from neighboring India. A massive naval fleet is heading towards Iran, with the US President expressing concerns over the move. The families of those killed in the Gul Plaza tragedy have demanded the return of their loved ones’ bodies. The Bangladesh Cricket Board has revealed that the national team traveled to the World Cup at their own expense.
