U.S. says China military drills near Taiwan "increase tensions unnecessarily"
Chinese war games around Taiwan "unnecessarily" spiked tensions in the region, the U.S. State Department said, calling on Beijing to "cease its military pressure."
World
At least 8 reported killed during Iran protests over struggling economy
The deaths may mark the start of a heavier-handed response by Iran's theocracy over the demonstrations, which have slowed in Tehran but expanded elsewhere.
Pope starts 2026 with prayer for countries "bloodied by conflict"
Pope Leo XIV celebrated a New Year's Day Mass in St. Peter's Basilica and then delivered a special noontime prayer from his studio overlooking the piazza.
Fire kills dozens at crowded Swiss Alps bar on New Year's
Police in Switzerland say a fire at a bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort area is believed to have left about 40 people dead and dozens more injured.
France defends granting George Clooney and his family French citizenship
George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, were granted French citizenship because "they contribute, through their distinguished actions, to France's international influence and cultural outreach," the French government said.
British boxer Anthony Joshua released from hospital after crash in Nigeria
The two-time former heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist was involved in a fatal road crash near Lagos on Monday.
Alleged drug smugglers jumped overboard in recent boat strikes, U.S. military says
Three people were killed Tuesday when the first boat was hit, while individuals in two other boats jumped overboard, according to U.S. Southern Command.
U.S. sanctions 4 firms, oil tankers with ties to Venezuela
The latest wave of sanctions targets oil traders and vessels that are helping prop up President Nicolás Maduro's regime, the Treasury Department said.
New Year's celebrations welcome 2026 around the world. See the photos.
New Zealand and Australia were among the first to welcome 2026, but in Sydney and some other cities, the festivities are tinged by grief.
Women Japanese lawmakers point to unique shortage — toilets for them
Nearly 60 women lawmakers in Japan, including the prime minister, have submitted a petition calling for more toilets in the parliament building to match their improved representation.
Iran cracks down, detaining protesters after several days of unrest
As the U.S. and Israel back Iranians' right to protest against their leaders, authorities in Tehran detain students and declare a sudden holiday.
1 killed, dozens injured in head-on train collision near Peru's Machu Picchu
The head-on collision occurred between two trains on the line that services the historic Peruvian site Machu Picchu.
Spanish woman known for botched fresco restoration dies at 94
Cecilia Giménez's botched restoration of a century-old painting of Jesus Christ captured global headlines more than a decade ago.
Cable car accident leaves 4 hurt, 100 stranded on mountain for hours
Four people were injured and around 100 stranded visitors had to be rescued by helicopter after a cable car accident in northern Italy, officials said.
No sign of "broader terrorist cell" behind Bondi Beach attack, police say
Australian police say there's no evidence the Sydney father and son suspects in the attack on a Jewish holiday event got training or instruction in the Philippines.
Live
Live Updates: Michigan Democratic rift spills into public view and more
Midterm elections preview: How might this year's vote change Washington?
Stevens endorses Rogers amid rift with El-Sayed
The issue that could tip the scales in the Texas Senate race
Jet from Texas crashes near homes in Palm Beach, Florida, killing 9 on board
Exclusive
Creditor has "taken control" of forever cruise
Sanders says GOP rhetoric about El-Sayed "should appall" Americans
Live
Trump says Iran war will be put away very soon: "One way or the other"
