Yemen's Houthis reportedly targeted a cargo ship in the Red Sea bound for Iran, said analysts. The vessel, identified as the Star Iris, was allegedly attacked while transporting corn from Brazil to Iran. While a US defence official stated the ship was likely targeted but not hit, maritime specialists suggested damage occurred with no casualties. The Houthis' action is seen as an independent move, signaling their control, analysts noted. Previous attacks on international shipping prompted route diversions, with warplanes conducting retaliatory strikes. Iranian officials haven't commented, and the ship is now proceeding to its destination.

NATO issued a strong rebuke against former US President Donald Trump, criticizing remarks made at a South Carolina rally where he suggested letting Russia act freely against NATO members failing to meet defense payment obligations. Trump's stance, decried by the White House as "appalling and unhinged," prompted concerns about potential US military withdrawal support for Ukraine if he is re-elected. President Joe Biden, seeking to reassure NATO allies, recently signed a defense bill to prevent unilateral withdrawal. NATO emphasized its commitment to defending all allies, while Trump's comments continue to stir uncertainty about the alliance's future.

Britain's King Charles appeared in public for the first time since his cancer diagnosis, attending church with wife Camilla. Wearing a brown overcoat, the king waved to well-wishers at St Mary Magdalene church in Sandringham. He expressed gratitude to supporters and plans to continue private duties during treatment. The unspecified cancer was discovered during a hospital stay for a benign prostate procedure. While some public engagements are postponed, King Charles remains committed to monarch responsibilities. Diagnosed less than 18 months into his reign, details of the cancer remain undisclosed.

Police detained Imran Khan's PTI party supporters protesting alleged election rigging in Lahore. As PTI-backed candidates flood Pakistan's courts with challenges, the Election Commission shows PTI winning 101 seats, short of a majority. Meanwhile, PTI claims a supporter was arrested in Lahore for waving the party flag. President Alvi praises voter turnout, and PTI condemns attempts to create a 'PDM-2'. Imran Khan's party plans protests in the US against 'election fraud.' Election results and protests intensify post-election uncertainty in Pakistan.

Former President Donald Trump, eyeing a 2024 comeback, stated at a South Carolina rally that he would "encourage" Russia to attack NATO allies not meeting financial commitments. The White House labeled the remarks "appalling and unhinged." Trump claimed he wouldn't defend delinquent countries during a NATO meeting, emphasizing the need to pay bills. Critics express concern over potential risks to global stability. Amid Trump's strong polling against Biden, he faces over 90 criminal charges, including subverting the 2020 election results. Trump pleads not guilty to charges, including alleged hush-money payments and retention of government secrets.

Baby girl lost her life when her mother, 26-year-old Mariah Thomas, mistakenly placed her in an oven instead of a crib in Kansas City, US. Responding to a distress call, officers found extensive burns on the infant, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Mariah Thomas has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child, facing a Class A felony. The circumstances surrounding this tragic event remain under investigation, with authorities expressing condolences and placing trust in the legal process to address the situation appropriately.

Tensions escalate in Pakistan as Imran Khan's party demands the right to form a government, alleging election result tampering. Despite winning the most seats, the party falls short of a majority, prompting talks of a coalition government. Khan's party faces challenges with court battles and protests, claiming manipulation in at least 22 seats. Pakistan's military urges stability, while foreign allies express concerns over electoral fairness. Civil society groups report widespread irregularities. With the situation unfolding, legal challenges over election results could prolong the political uncertainty in the country.

Amid allegations of rigging, Pakistan's election results show PTI-backed independents in the lead, sparking controversy. Protests erupted over fairness as the Election Commission orders re-polling in select stations on February 15. PTI chairman anticipates an invitation to form the government, asserting Imran Khan's influence despite his imprisonment. Results indicate PTI-backed independents winning over 100 seats, with PML-N and PPP trailing. However, per electoral laws, independents cannot form a government. Imran Khan claims victory from jail, criticizing opponents. Army Chief commends election conduct, while international observers express concerns over rigging. PTI, PPP, and PML-N file petitions alleging irregularities.

In an overnight attack, at least seven people lost their lives in Kharkiv, Ukraine as Russian drones targeted a petrol station, causing massive fires in residential areas. Among the victims were five members of a family, including two children and a baby. Kharkiv Mayor declared the Russian aggressor's impact on the city, vowing resilience. Three children perished in a house fire, while an elderly couple died in another blaze. The assault left three others injured. Ukraine's emergency services rescued 50 people, but numerous homes were destroyed. The unprovoked attacks come amid Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

Israeli airstrikes in Rafah, Gaza, claimed the lives of 44 Palestinians, including over a dozen children, escalating tensions as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinted at a potential ground invasion. Amid panic and diplomatic warnings, concerns mount over the densely populated Rafah, seen as a Hamas stronghold. Diplomatic voices, including Egypt and Qatar, caution against disastrous consequences. The strikes follow ongoing conflict, with civilians caught in the crossfire. As casualties rise and infrastructure crumbles, international calls for restraint intensify. The situation worsens as Israel considers a ground offensive, fueling fears of further humanitarian catastrophe in the besieged region.