Donald Trump has officially taken the oath as the 47th President of the United States, promising a "golden age" for America in his inaugural address. Trump emphasized unification and prosperity while criticizing the Biden administration’s handling of key issues, including the migrant crisis. Moments before the inauguration, former President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden boarded Marine One, with the Trumps bidding them farewell. Former Vice-President Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff also departed the ceremony. Trump is set to issue executive orders addressing the US-Mexico border, drug cartels, and government diversity programs.

Donald Trump has been sworn in as the 47th president of the United States, marking a dramatic political comeback. Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath, with JD Vance sworn in as vice president by Justice Brett Kavanaugh. In his inauguration address, Trump called for a “revolution of common sense” and vowed immediate action on immigration, border security, and pardons for January 6 rioters. High-profile attendees included Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and former presidents. Country singer Carrie Underwood performed “America the Beautiful.” Meanwhile, outgoing President Joe Biden issued controversial last-minute pardons, including those for family members and January 6 investigators.            

Donald Trump, set to be sworn in as the oldest US president for a second term, plans to issue 100 executive orders within hours of taking office. Key policies include recognizing only two biological genders, ending federal diversity programs, and declaring a national emergency at the Mexico border to enhance immigration vetting. Other orders aim to boost domestic energy production by declaring an energy emergency, reversing Biden-era climate policies, and prioritizing American oil and gas. Trump will also end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants. The 78-year-old seeks to redefine US policy, echoing promises made during his campaign.

Gazans are returning to destroyed homes on the second day of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Families who lived in tents for months are inspecting rubble where their homes once stood. Ayat Abedrabo, a mother of nine, said it was the first night without the sound of drones or bombs. "Our children slept without fear," she shared, though sadness lingers for lives lost. Freed British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari expressed gratitude, calling her release a "new life." Ninety Palestinian prisoners were also released, with reunions filled with tears of joy. The ceasefire offers hope, but uncertainty remains for the future.

Donald Trump's swearing-in as the 47th US President will take place indoors at the Capitol Rotunda due to a cold air emergency in Washington DC. Severe weather, including a massive winter storm with snow forecasts of up to 5 inches, prompted the shift from the outdoor venue. This marks the first indoor presidential inauguration since Ronald Reagan's in 1985. The administration has urged citizens to stay indoors as temperatures plummet. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar represents India at the ceremony and has met with counterparts from Japan and Australia to discuss QUAD initiatives.

Outgoing US President Joe Biden pardoned Dr. Anthony Fauci, retired Gen. Mark Milley, and Capitol attack committee members in a bid to shield them from potential reprisals under Donald Trump’s administration. "This action ensures justice and safeguards integrity," Biden said. Trump, who previously warned of targeting political adversaries, had criticized Fauci for his Covid-19 measures and Milley for his remarks on the January 6 insurrection. The pardons are seen as a protective measure against Trump’s "enemies list" and his plans for retribution. Biden's decision underscores concerns about political polarization and potential misuse of power.

Joe Biden bids farewell to the White House today, four years after defeating Donald Trump in the 2020 election. Starting with a closed-door intelligence briefing, Biden will later host the Trumps for a tea reception before attending the swearing-in ceremony at the US Capitol. Around noon, he officially steps down as president. Following farewell remarks at Joint Base Andrews, Biden will depart for California, visiting Vandenberg Space Force Base and Santa Ynez. While Biden, 82, has shared no detailed post-presidency plans, he assured, "I’m not going anywhere," hinting at continued public involvement.

Shariful Islam Shehzad, the man accused of stabbing Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan six times during a burglary attempt in Mumbai, was arrested after tracing his UPI payment for breakfast. The Bangladeshi national, living illegally in India, had evaded police for days, traveling across Mumbai before being caught in Thane. He entered Khan's home through a bathroom window and attacked him during a scuffle. Khan, rushed to Lilavati Hospital, is recovering after life-saving surgery. Shehzad, now in custody, claims innocence, while police investigate possible accomplices. His lawyer alleges he is being framed due to Khan's celebrity status.

Donald Trump delivered a campaign-style rally in Washington on the eve of his inauguration, where he promised to sign nearly 100 executive orders on his first day. Speaking to supporters, he vowed to reverse Biden administration policies and restore America's strength. Trump also hinted at pardoning January 6 rioters, ensuring his supporters would be pleased with the outcome. The rally saw Trump dancing to "YMCA" with The Village People and sharing a hug with Elon Musk. He also promised an aggressive plan to restore U.S. borders in his inaugural speech.

Hamas released three Israeli hostages on January 19, 2025, handing them bizarre "gift bags" before their transfer to the Red Cross. The bags contained photos of the hostages in captivity, a commemorative image of Gaza, and a "certificate of release." The hostages described the items as part of a "cynical game" to manipulate them. The video released by Hamas shows the hostages smiling with certificates while armed terrorists drove them through Gaza City. This release marks the first phase of a cease-fire deal involving 33 hostages, with more expected in the coming days.