US President Donald Trump voiced support for the H-1B visa programme, saying, “We want competent people coming into our country.” At a press conference, he highlighted the need for skilled workers, not just in tech but also in other fields like hospitality and engineering. “By doing that, we’re expanding businesses, and that takes care of everybody,” he added. However, Trump also signed an order ending birthright citizenship for children of non-citizens. From February 20, only children with at least one American or green card-holding parent will get US citizenship. The move impacts many H-1B visa holders and their families.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order recognizing only two sexes, male and female, as "unchangeable biological classifications." This move mandates federal identification documents to reflect "sex" instead of "gender." Trump also repealed 78 executive actions from the Biden administration promoting diversity, equity, and LGBTQ+ rights. His administration has ended policies addressing discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation. Trump criticized diversity and inclusion programs as disadvantaging white men and vowed to create a "colorblind and merit-based" society. LGBTQ+ advocates condemned the rollback, highlighting its impact on marginalized communities. This aligns with Trump’s campaign promises to counter “woke” culture.

Israeli forces launched a major operation in Jenin, West Bank, killing 8 Palestinians and injuring 35. Dubbed "Iron Wall," the operation targeted armed groups, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu aiming to "defeat terrorism." The raid followed drone strikes and involved heavy ground forces. Palestinian health officials reported medical staff among the wounded. Hamas called for retaliatory attacks. The operation coincides with rising violence in the West Bank since the October 2023 Hamas-Israel conflict. Palestinian officials condemned settler violence amid US policy reversals under President Trump. Israel asserts the raids aim to dismantle militant infrastructure and secure the region.

A historic snowstorm is sweeping across the southern United States, affecting regions from Texas to Florida. The first-ever blizzard warning was issued for parts of the Texas and Louisiana coast, with Houston and New Orleans experiencing rare snowfall. Over 2,000 flights have been canceled, and power outages are reported. Georgia officials confirmed one hypothermia-related death. Snowfall ranges from 1-3 inches in Houston to 3-5 inches in New Orleans. Schools are closed, and authorities urge residents to stay home. Savannah Mayor Van Johnson highlighted, “We don’t do ice well.” Snow is expected to subside by Wednesday morning.

Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated U.S. President-elect Donald Trump ahead of his inauguration in Washington. Putin expressed readiness to engage in discussions on resolving the Ukraine conflict and managing nuclear arms. "We welcome Trump's desire to restore direct contacts with Russia and prevent war," Putin told Russia's Security Council. He emphasized hopes for "lasting peace" in Ukraine under Trump’s leadership. Previously, Putin extended congratulations when Trump won the U.S. presidential election, marking a potential thaw in U.S.-Russia relations. Analysts anticipate this dialogue may redefine geopolitical alliances and global peace efforts.

Mumbai Police found a cap belonging to Mohammad Shariful Islam Shehzad, accused in Saif Ali Khan's stabbing case, in Jeh's room. Hair strands on the cap have been sent for forensic DNA analysis. Shehzad, a Bangladeshi national, allegedly entered India illegally seven months ago using forged documents. Currently in 5-day custody, police suspect a possible international conspiracy. Saif Ali Khan, attacked in his Bandra home on January 16, underwent emergency surgery and has since been discharged. Security at his residence has been heightened with new CCTV cameras. Investigators continue probing the attack’s motive and its broader implications.

A deadly fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel in Kartalkaya ski resort, Turkey, claimed 66 lives on Tuesday, with 234 guests present. Starting at 3:30 am in the restaurant, the blaze quickly spread through the 12-story building, prompting guests to leap from windows or use tied bedsheets to escape. Witnesses reported the fire alarm failed to operate, and delayed firefighting efforts worsened the tragedy. Bolu Governor Abdulaziz Aydin confirmed injuries to 51 people, one critically. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya expressed deep sorrow. Investigations revealed wooden cladding accelerated the flames. Safety concerns grow after another gas explosion injured 4 in Sivas.

Donald Trump and Melania Trump launched competing meme coins, $Trump and $Melania, disrupting the crypto market. The $Trump coin, valued at $75 initially, plunged 50% to $30 after $Melania’s launch but later recovered to $64. Melania’s coin reached a $13 billion market cap within hours. Experts criticized the potential conflicts of interest, with Trump poised to deregulate the crypto sector as President. Norman Eisen labeled it “the most profound conflict of interest” in U.S. presidential history. Bitcoin surged to $109,241 amidst the frenzy, while critics highlighted ethical concerns over profiting from political office.

During Donald Trump’s second-term inauguration, a video of Mark Zuckerberg glancing at Lauren Sanchez’s bold outfit sparked an online frenzy. Sanchez, Jeff Bezos’ fiancée, wore a white blazer and satin-trimmed bustier that drew attention and criticism. Sitting beside her, Zuckerberg’s momentary look and slight smile became a viral meme, with users joking about his typically robotic demeanor. Some teased him for “unnecessary horniness.” Sanchez faced backlash for her fashion choice, which many deemed inappropriate for the formal event. The viral moment highlighted social media’s fascination with powerful figures and their interactions at high-profile events.

US President Donald Trump announced plans to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America" during his inaugural speech. Cameras caught former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton laughing at the proposal, shaking her head as she reacted. Social media users echoed her sentiments, calling the idea unnecessary. Experts say Trump can change the name in US documents, but international bodies like the International Hydrographic Bureau standardise global naming conventions, making the change unlikely worldwide. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum suggested naming it "Mexican America" instead. The proposal has sparked debate and humour across the internet.