News Digest

An outbreak of the deadly Nipah virus in India's West Bengal state has sparked concern in parts of Asia. It has a high death range – ranging from 40% to 75% – as there is no vaccine or medicine to treat it.

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Japan’s cremation-centered funeral culture and land scarcity restrict burial access for religious minorities. Burial is legal but rare; over 99.9% of funerals are cremations. With only about ten Muslim burial sites, Islamic requirements leave Muslims with limited options.

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Beware of AI chatbots that become more than just companions—or worse, emotional crutches. Pope Leo has cautioned against overly “affectionate” AI chatbots, calling for regulation to prevent people from forming deep emotional attachments to their AI companions.

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This week, hundreds of top political leaders from around the world, including close to 65 heads of state and government, are gathering in Davos, Switzerland, for the World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting 2026.

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Valentino Garavani, the legendary Italian designer known for his signature "Valentino red" gowns and dressing Hollywood's biggest stars, has died at 93. His decades-long influence helped shape the world of high fashion and red carpet style.

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Iran’s economy has collapsed, with the rial plunging to 1.48 million to the dollar on Dec. 28, sparking protests by merchants in Tehran’s central bazaar. What began as economic unrest has escalated into the largest protests in 17 years, with calls to overthrow the Islamic Republic. Authorities have responded with violent crackdowns, killing hundreds or possibly thousands.

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The United States will suspend immigrant visa processing indefinitely for applicants from 75 countries starting January 21, aiming to prevent the admission of foreign nationals deemed likely to rely on welfare or public benefits.

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Netflix mega-hit KPop Demon Hunters has won a Golden Globe for best animated feature, while its breakout anthem Golden was named best original song.

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Anti-ICE protests have been taking place in cities across the US after a woman was fatally shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis.

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The wait is almost over for the 2026 Olympics in Milan-Cortina. The 25th Olympic Winter Games will begin at San Siro Stadium live on Friday, February 6.

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