Your window to world news: Iran’s Strait of Hormuz deal and FIFA’s investment row to Bangladesh-India tensions, WWII shipwrecks resurfacing in the Danube, a scare involving Trump’s helicopter, and the US’ new visa bond plan—here are today’s top global headlines
Iran, Oman agree Hormuz shipping route: Iran says it has reached a final-stage agreement with Oman on a shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran cautioned the deal alone cannot ensure safe navigation, blaming US restrictions on Iranian ports for continued security risks.
Infantino apologises, keeps FIFA backing: FIFA president Gianni Infantino apologised for errors over a controversial private investment proposal for World Cup competitions but retained the backing of senior executives. Despite criticism from UEFA and within FIFA, the management board reaffirmed confidence in his leadership.
Drought exposes WWII ships in Danube: Severe drought has lowered water levels in the Danube River, Europe’s second-longest waterway, exposing the wrecks of dozens of German World War II battleships. The resurfacing vessels highlight the impact of prolonged dry conditions across parts of Europe.
Close call over DC: The FAA is investigating a “loss of separation” incident between Marine One, carrying President Trump, and an Envoy Air jet on Tuesday. While minimum safety distances were briefly compromised near Reagan National Airport, officials confirmed the President remained safe.
US plans visa bonds up to $250,000: The US is launching a pilot programme requiring some immigrant visa applicants to post refundable bonds of up to $250,000 if deemed likely to become public charges. The scheme will initially target applicants from the Dominican Republic and could later expand.
The big number: FBI Director Kash Patel said the bureau prevented 715 planned terror attacks across the US last year, disclosing the figure for the first time while warning that terrorist groups remain intent on targeting Americans. He added that four separate terror plots were foiled in December alone.
Quote of the day: “In Venezuela, it was a 48-minute war, and we paid for the war with what we’ve taken out…to the victor belongs the spoils, and we are doing the same thing in the lovely Islamic Republic of Iran. We are knocking the hell out of them. I would rather make a deal, because I do not want to kill people.”
– US President Donald Trump
This day in history: On this day in 1945, the United States dropped the atomic bomb “Little Boy” on Hiroshima, Japan. It was the first use of a nuclear weapon in warfare, killing tens of thousands instantly and leading to the observation of Hiroshima Day annually to promote peace.
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