U.S. Politics: Zohran Mamdani Sworn In as NYC MayorZohran Mamdani was inaugurated as New York City’s mayor, becoming the first Muslim, first South Asian, and youngest in over a century to hold the office.
- The democratic socialist took the oath in an abandoned subway station to highlight transit improvements.
- Priorities include tackling affordability; he revoked several orders from predecessor Eric Adams.
International: Trump Threatens Intervention in IranPresident Trump warned the U.S. would intervene if Iran violently suppresses protests amid economic turmoil and currency collapse.
- Protests flared in Tehran; Iranian officials cautioned against U.S. interference.
Middle East/Gaza: Ongoing HardshipsWinter storms battered displacement tents in Gaza, killing additional children. Israel continued demolitions in the West Bank and approved more settlements. Large protests in Istanbul demanded an end to actions in Palestine.Economy/Markets: Dollar Rebounds to Start 2026The U.S. dollar strengthened on the first trading day after its sharpest annual drop in years. Stocks mixed; focus on upcoming Fed policy and jobs data.Other Notable Stories
- New Year’s Aftermath: Global celebrations featured fireworks in Sydney (with heightened security), Dubai, London, and Times Square. Reflections on 2025 events mixed with hope for 2026.
- Sports: England’s Luke Littler won back-to-back PDC World Darts Championship.
- Global: Bulgaria adopted the euro as its currency.
- Tragedy: Ongoing Developments in Swiss Ski Resort FireInvestigations into the deadly New Year’s Eve fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, indicate it was likely caused by sparklers on champagne bottles held too close to the ceiling.
- Death toll remains at 40, with 119 injured, many with severe burns transferred to specialist units in Switzerland, France, Germany, and elsewhere.
- Victims include Swiss nationals and tourists from France, Italy, Serbia, and others. Identification continues amid grief in the close-knit resort community. A memorial ceremony is planned for January 9.
News continues to develop, particularly on the Swiss tragedy and international tensions. Check reliable sources for the latest updates.
