Latest news on Saturday, 17th of January 2026

Tensions in the Middle East are escalating! Did you know that Iranian protests have caught the attention of both the US and the UN? 🤔 Stay tuned for some crucial updates on this developing situation.

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  • Syrian army soldiers in their vehicles enter the Deir Hafer town on January 17, 2026. Syria’s army said it took control of the town of Deir Hafer outside Aleppo city on January 17, a day after Kurdish forces agreed to withdraw from the area following recent clashes. In a statement to state television, the army said it had established ’full military control’ of Deir Hafer, while an AFP correspondent on the ground saw troops deploying inside the town.

US Military Readies for Potential Action – A carrier strike group is moving towards the Persian Gulf amidst rising tensions in Iran. Analysts estimate arrival in 5-7 days, potentially altering the balance in the region. ⏳ According to CNN.

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UN Calls for Restraint – UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urges dialogue and diplomacy to address Iranian unrest, emphasizing that military action will only exacerbate tensions. Will diplomacy prevail? 🕊️ As reported by Al Jazeera.

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  • Gambian Justice Minister and Attorney General Dawda Jallow sits in the courtroom, next to lawyer Arsalan Suleman, as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) starts hearings in a landmark case brought by The Gambia, which accuses Myanmar of committing genocide against the Rohingya, a minority Muslim group, in The Hague, Netherlands, on January 12, 2026 [Piroschka van de Wouw/Reuters]

Iraqi Militias Join Iranian Crackdown – Nearly 5,000 Iraqi militia fighters have crossed the border to assist Iran in suppressing protests. This move raises alarms about regional stability. What does this mean for the future? 🚨 CNN reports.

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US Sanctions Increase Pressure – The Trump administration has imposed new sanctions targeting Iranian officials amidst ongoing protests. Could these measures impact Iran's crackdown? 📉 The Guardian covers this development.

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Which fact surprised you most? Are we on the brink of an escalation? Share your thoughts below!

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