As the world follows the ongoing aggression in Gaza by Israel, it’s imperative not to overlook other key news and developments that may be significant for a diverse readership. Al Jazeera is committed to delivering these updates.
Here are the most notable global news headlines for Monday, January 15, 2024, beyond the war on Gaza:
United Nations Needs $4.2 Billion to Aid Ukrainians
The United Nations has announced its need for $4.2 billion in 2024 to provide humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and aid the millions of refugees who have fled their country since the start of the Russian war on Ukraine nearly two years ago.
The UN underscored that “the recent series of attacks are a reminder of the hefty toll this war is taking on civilians, at a time when the harsh winter is amplifying the urgent need for humanitarian aid to save lives.”
It was noted that 14.6 million people will require humanitarian assistance in Ukraine this year, which constitutes 40% of the population.
Martin Griffiths, the UN Coordinator for Humanitarian Affairs, stated in a release, “Hundreds of thousands of children are living in areas near the front lines, terrorized and traumatized, deprived of basic necessities.”
Griffiths further highlighted “the ongoing targeting of homes, schools, hospitals, and water, gas, and electricity networks,” adding that the “fabric of society is under attack, which causes severe repercussions.”
Marches Against Far-Right in Germany
Thousands of Germans took to the streets in a march in Berlin on Sunday, protesting plans by the far-right “Alternative for Germany” party to collectively expel foreigners.
Police reported that around 10,000 people, including the country’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz from the Social Democratic Party, took part in the Berlin march. Similar marches were organized in other cities.
Reports have surfaced that “Alternative for Germany,” which polls suggest is gaining popularity, discussed a plan for the mass expulsion of foreigners during a meeting with Austrian extremists.
On Saturday, Scholz warned of escalating extremism following criticisms of the far-right’s efforts to capitalize on anti-government protests led by farmers, stating, “When legitimate protests turn into fury or contempt for democratic processes and institutions, we all lose,” adding, “Only those who despise our democracy will benefit.”
Taiwan Leader Praises Close Partnership with Washington
An unofficial delegation sent by the United States met with the outgoing president of Taiwan, Tsai Ing-wen, today. The meeting took place two days after the election of her successor Lai Ching-te amidst growing pressure from China.
The Taiwanese president welcomed the American delegation, which included former National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley, former Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg, and Laura Rosenberger, the director of the American Institute in Taiwan. She emphasized the visit as a symbol of the “close and robust partnership” between the two countries, expressing hope for continued progression in relations and leadership in regional and global prosperity and development.
Subsequently, the delegation met with the recently elected president, who thanked the United States for its “strong support for Taiwanese democracy.”
This visit culminates an election campaign characterized by increased diplomatic and military pressures from Beijing, which strongly criticized U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s congratulations to the new president.
Lai will assume office on May 20th, along with his deputy, Hsiao Bi-khim, Taiwan’s former representative to the United States. China considers Taiwan an inseparable part of its territory and has vowed to bring it back into its fold by force if necessary.
20,000 British Soldiers in NATO’s Largest Exercise Since the Cold War
Britain plans to send 20,000 soldiers to participate in one of NATO’s largest military exercises since the Cold War. The exercise is part of the alliance’s training to repel a Russian invasion.
The British Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps, is expected to announce later today the deployment of army, navy, and royal air force personnel in the exercises, which will see participation from 31 countries across Europe.
About 16,000 British soldiers equipped with tanks, artillery, and helicopters will be deployed across Eastern Europe starting from February as part of these exercises.
The Royal Navy will deploy over 2,000 sailors on 8 ships and submarines, while more than 400 Royal Marine Commandos will be sent to the Arctic Circle.
North Korea: Medium-Range Ballistic Missile Launched
North Korea’s state news agency announced the launch of a medium-range ballistic missile powered by solid fuel today, thereby confirming information provided by South Korea the day before.
The agency clarified that the missile, armed with a supersonic warhead, was launched to “verify the capabilities of flight and maneuverability” as well as the “reliability of the new solid fuel engine.”
The Seoul Joint Chiefs of Staff condemned the launch by North Korea as a “clear provocation that poses a serious threat to peace and stability” on the Korean Peninsula.
Iowa Kicks Off the Primary Election Season in America
Attention turns today to the election districts in Iowa, where the future of the current presidential candidates for both the Republican and Democratic parties will be largely determined.
Iowa is the first state where citizens cast their votes in what are known as the party caucuses.
The Republicans have three main candidates vying for leadership: former President Donald Trump, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley. The race could be tight for the first state in the contest for the White House.
Democrats expect President Joe Biden to comfortably defeat author Marianne Williamson and Dean Phillips, a Congressional representative from Minnesota.
Candidates believe the momentum associated with Iowa stems from it being the launching point for victory, media attraction, and a funding source for the rest of the race if positive results are achieved in the state’s primary elections.
