The Bundestag approved measures to reinforce the Federal Constitutional Court, shielding it from political interference amid rising AfD influence. The law fixes judges’ number (16), terms (12 years), and age limit (68), and enshrines its two-senate structure in the Basic Law. Judges will serve until successors are elected, ensuring operational continuity and autonomy in case processing.
FRENCH CARRIER STRIKE GROUP TO VISIT JAPAN IN 2025, STRENGTHENING INDO-PACIFIC ENGAGEMENT
The French Charles de Gaulle Carrier Strike Group will visit Japan between February and March 2025, marking the first deployment of a French carrier group to the region in over 40 years. The mission includes joint exercises with India, US, Japanese, Australian, and Canadian navies, showcasing France’s military presence and reinforcing partnerships in the Indo-Pacific.
US FACES PARTIAL SHUTDOWN AS SPENDING BILL BLOCKED BY TRUMP AND MUSK
A US government shutdown looms after a stopgap spending bill was scrapped under pressure from President-elect Donald Trump and Elon Musk. The bill, aimed at extending funding for three months, faced sharp criticism for being “bloated” with Democratic priorities. Musk led a social media campaign against the bill, prompting Trump to call for Republicans to reject it.
JABALIA REFUGEE CAMP REDUCED TO RUBBLE IN DEVASTATING ISRAELI OFFENSIVE
The Guardian’s investigation reveals the obliteration of the Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza. Once a vibrant hub, the camp has been left in ruins by systematic Israeli airstrikes, with satellite images showing entire blocks destroyed. Eyewitness accounts describe unimaginable suffering, as the world watches in shock, seemingly indifferent to the humanitarian catastrophe.
INDIA PLANS TARIFF CUTS ON U.S. GOODS TO EASE TRADE RELATIONS WITH TRUMP ADMINISTRATION
India is preparing to reduce tariffs on U.S. imports like pork, medical devices, and luxury motorcycles to counter potential “reciprocal tax” threats from President-elect Donald Trump. With bilateral trade surpassing $118 billion and India holding a $32 billion surplus, the move aims to secure a broader trade and investment deal. Proposals also include increased purchases of U.S. LNG and defense equipment, potentially boosting energy and aircraft imports by $5-10 billion annually.
