An anti-ICE rally took place in Minneapolis on Sunday, highlighting growing public outrage over immigration enforcement actions in the United States. This protest follows a series of incidents that have sparked national debate and calls for accountability.
Obamas Describe Pretti's Death as a 'Wake-Up Call'
Pressure is intensifying on Donald Trump's administration to conduct a full investigation into the killing of 37-year-old nurse Alex Pretti by federal immigration officers in Minneapolis. Calls for an inquiry have emerged from across the political spectrum after video analysis revealed that officers had removed a handgun from Pretti, which he was reportedly permitted to carry and was not handling, before fatally shooting him on Saturday. Meanwhile, Trump officials continue to disseminate misleading information about the event.
Barack and Michelle Obama have characterised Pretti's death as "a heartbreaking tragedy" and "a wake-up call to every American, regardless of party, that many of our core values as a nation are increasingly under assault". Their statement adds significant weight to demands for transparency and justice in this case.
Latest Developments in Minnesota
A federal judge is scheduled to hear arguments today on whether to halt the often brutal immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota. This operation has resulted in the killings of two 37-year-old US citizens by government officers in less than a month, raising serious concerns about the conduct and oversight of such agencies.
In related news, a supervisor in the FBI's Minneapolis field office, who had sought to investigate the ICE agent responsible for the fatal shooting in the city on 7 January, has resigned according to reports. This development further complicates the ongoing investigation into Renee Nicole Good's fatal shooting, underscoring the challenges in holding federal agents accountable.
US Winter Storm Leaves Seven Dead and Millions Without Power
A powerful winter storm sweeping across the United States has resulted in at least seven deaths, bringing heavy snow and ice from the Gulf Coast to the north-east. More than 1 million people in the southern regions were left without power, and over 10,000 flights were cancelled due to the severe weather conditions.
The Louisiana Department of Health confirmed two storm-related deaths in Caddo Parish, while New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani reported that "at least five New Yorkers passed away and were found outside" on Saturday, before the snowfall began. In response, Trump approved federal emergency disaster declarations in multiple states including South Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, Maryland, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Indiana, and West Virginia.
Israel Agrees to Limited Reopening of Gaza's Rafah Crossing
Israel has announced that its military is conducting a large-scale operation to locate the body of the remaining hostage in Gaza, Ran Gvili. The Rafah crossing with Egypt will only be reopened once this mission is completed, according to Israeli authorities.
This statement came as Israel's cabinet met to discuss the possible reopening of the key border crossing, following a day of meetings between senior US envoys and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The US reportedly urged Israel to reopen this vital entry point for humanitarian aid into Gaza. Israel's demand for the return of Gvili's remains is widely seen as the final obstacle to opening the Rafah crossing and beginning the second phase of the US-brokered ceasefire.
Hamas responded in a statement yesterday, claiming it had provided all available information about Gvili's remains and accusing Israel of obstructing search efforts in areas of Gaza under Israeli military control.
Gold Prices Surge Amid Trump Turmoil
Gold has risen above $5,000 an ounce for the first time, as investors seek safe haven from the uncertainty surrounding Donald Trump's erratic policies and pronouncements. The price hit a record high of $5,100 this morning before easing to settle up 2.2% at $5,089, reflecting growing market anxiety.
OB-GYNs Combat Trump's 'Guerrilla War on Science'
As some medical groups yield to pressure from the Trump administration, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is taking a firm stand. Over the past year, this non-partisan organisation has emerged as a leading voice in opposing Donald Trump's anti-science agenda, particularly concerning issues related to pregnancy and childbirth.
Climate Check: Trump's Winter Storm Claims Debunked
Donald Trump has incorrectly pointed to the recent massive winter storm in the US as supposed proof that climate change is a hoax. Scientists, however, explain that the storm is fueled by a weakened polar vortex—a phenomenon linked by research to a rapidly warming Arctic. Long-term trends clearly indicate that US winters are, overall, becoming warmer.
Last Thing: The Truth About 'Parasite Cleanses'
Searching for "parasite cleanse" on social media platforms like TikTok or Instagram yields numerous so-called experts promoting expensive herbal supplements that promise to detox the body. However, Caroline Susie, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, states unequivocally that such cleanses are unnecessary, emphasising that infections related to parasitic worms are concentrated in the world's poorest communities lacking access to clean water and sanitation.
