In a serious incident, an Israeli attack took the life of Hamas's deputy chief, Saleh al-Aruri, raising concerns of a bigger conflict. Israel is on high alert, stating it's "prepared for any scenario." Hamas promises retaliation, while Hezbollah condemns the attack. The international community worries about the situation escalating, and the UN plans a meeting to discuss recent events. Palestinian Prime Minister Shtayyeh warns of potential "risks and consequences." Leaders worldwide, including France's Macron, urge caution. With tensions high, there are fears that the Israel-Hamas conflict could extend beyond the region. The situation remains precarious, demanding international attention and diplomatic efforts.

Two explosions near the grave of General Qasem Soleimani in Kerman, Iran, resulted in 73 fatalities and 170 injuries during a gathering marking the anniversary of his 2020 killing. Described as a "terrorist attack" by Kerman's deputy governor, the blasts intensified tensions in the Middle East. Tasnim news agency reported remote-controlled bombs, with the ISNA agency stating the explosions occurred ten minutes apart. Soleimani, a revered figure in Iran, led the Revolutionary Guard's elite Quds Force and was killed in a US drone strike. The incident follows the recent Beirut drone strike killing Hamas's Saleh al-Aruri.

Turkey announces the detainment of 34 individuals, accusing them of planning abductions and spying on behalf of Israel's Mossad. Turkish officials state the suspects were targeting Palestinians in Turkey. The move follows President Erdogan's recent warning against potential Israeli actions on Hamas figures in Turkey. Tensions between Turkey and Israel have escalated since the Gaza war, with Erdogan criticizing Israeli leaders. The arrests aim to prevent foreign intelligence activities on Turkish soil without proper authorization. Periodic raids against suspected operatives contribute to the strained relations, impacting the once-thawing ties between the two nations.

The longest doctors' strike in NHS history is starting as junior doctors across England stage a 6-day walkout. Thousands of junior doctors, nearly half of the NHS doctor workforce, are expected to participate beginning 07:00 GMT today. NHS leaders fear the strike will severely disrupt routine services in some areas. This action follows failed pay talks between the government and British Medical Association last month. The BMA says doctors need better remuneration and value. Ahead of the strike, NHS England's medical director warned this stoppage during an already challenging winter with high flu and COVID rates will be "very difficult" for the overburdened health service.

A new wave of Russian missile and drone strikes hit cities across Ukraine on Tuesday, leaving at least seven dead and over 180 wounded. Attacks struck residential buildings in Kyiv and Kharkiv, as Moscow escalated its aerial bombardment after vowing retaliation for a Ukrainian strike on Russian soil. President Zelensky accused Russia of premeditated terror aimed at civilians. Ukraine says it shot down over 70 incoming missiles, but damage was still extensive. The escalation came as military aid for Ukraine faces hurdles. Kyiv urged the West to expedite air defense equipment as critical to counter the intensified Russian attacks on power infrastructure and civilian areas.

Japan Airlines confirms its jet had received permission to land before the tragic collision at Tokyo's Haneda Airport, claiming the lives of five individuals. The near-catastrophic incident involved a coast guard plane on an aid mission to the New Year's Day earthquake zone. While the coast guard plane's captain survived with serious injuries, all 379 passengers and crew on the Japan Airlines aircraft safely evacuated before it was engulfed in flames. The cause of the collision is under investigation, and government officials have pledged a thorough examination into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.

Harvard University President Claudine Gay has resigned amidst allegations of plagiarism and criticism for her congressional testimony on antisemitism. The decision follows concerns about her handling of a hearing where she faced backlash, particularly from New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik. The controversy also involves accusations of plagiarism in Gay's academic work, which underwent an independent review. Harvard Corporation expressed gratitude for Gay's contributions but confirmed her departure. Alan M. Garber will serve as interim president. Gay, the first person of color and second woman as Harvard's president, will remain a faculty member.

Amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict, Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas chief, declares that hostages taken from Israel won't be freed without adhering to the resistance's conditions. In a televised address, Haniyeh emphasizes, "The enemy's prisoners will only be released on terms set by the resistance." This stance has been communicated to Qatar and Egypt, calling for a complete cessation of aggression against Palestinians. Meanwhile, Gaza witnesses 207 deaths in 24 hours, bringing the Palestinian death toll to over 22,000. Yoav Gallant, Israeli defense minister, notes efforts targeting tunnels, stating, "We are reaching them all ways." Haniyeh also expresses openness to a unified Palestinian administration, saying, "We are open to the idea of a national government for the West Bank and Gaza."

Newly released files from the National Archives show that Srichand P Hinduja, embroiled in the “cash-for-passports” scandal, asked a British diplomat in 2001 if he should avoid returning to the UK until after the general election. Hinduja had donated £1m to Labour's Millennium Dome project while applying for a passport, leading to Peter Mandelson's resignation. Hinduja was concerned about becoming embroiled in a scandal damaging to Labour before the election. The diplomat gave no advice. The archives also showed the Conservatives questioned Tony Blair about his links to Hinduja amid the scandal. Though Hinduja was cleared of wrongdoing, the scandal harmed Labour ahead of the 2001 polls.

Lebanon's Hezbollah confirms the death of Saleh Arouri, a top Hamas official, in a southern Beirut explosion. Arouri, a founder of Hamas' military wing and West Bank head, was reportedly targeted by an Israeli drone. The blast, killing four, prompts Hamas to vow continued resistance. Hezbollah pledges retaliation against any Israeli targeting of Palestinian officials in Lebanon. Lebanon's PM condemns the incident as a "new Israeli crime." Israel, though not claiming responsibility, suggests a "surgical strike against the Hamas leadership." Tensions escalate following months of clashes between Israel and Hezbollah along the Lebanon-Israel border.