Iran plans to relocate its capital from Tehran to Makran, citing overpopulation, power shortages, and water scarcity in Tehran. Officials highlight Makran’s 1,000-kilometer coastline and the strategic Chabahar Free Trade Zone as economic advantages. Still, in the exploratory phase, the move seeks input from experts in various fields. While Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref prioritizes the shift, critics question its feasibility, citing massive costs and time. Journalist Ali Gholhaki criticized the plan, noting high financial demands. President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized that Tehran’s financial resources are unsustainable, pushing for change.
LA WILDFIRES: DEATH TOLL 10
The death toll from Los Angeles wildfires has risen to 10, with over 10,000 structures destroyed. Amid looting incidents, Santa Monica enforced a curfew, arresting 20 people. The new Kenneth Fire erupted near Calabasas, adding to the devastation. Though firefighters had seen progress earlier, renewed blazes keep residents on edge. False evacuation alerts caused panic, later clarified as errors. Social media circulated false reports about damage to the Hollywood sign, debunked by Reuters. Authorities suspect arson behind Kenneth Fire, arresting a homeless man. The affected area spans a 40-kilometer stretch north of downtown LA.
US SUPREME COURT DENIES TO DELAY TRUMP SENTENCING
The US Supreme Court denied President-elect Donald Trump’s emergency bid to delay his sentencing in the hush money case involving Stormy Daniels. In a 5-4 ruling, the court stated that the sentencing’s impact on Trump’s presidential responsibilities is minimal. Trump, convicted on 34 counts of falsifying business records, argued for presidential immunity, but Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg countered that Trump was a private citizen during his trial. The sentencing, set for Friday, will impose an “unconditional discharge,” without jail time or fines. Trump remains poised to become the first convicted felon to assume the US presidency.
TAIWAN WARY OF CABLE SABOTAGE
A damaged undersea cable near Taiwan, suspected to involve the Chinese-linked cargo ship Shunxin39, has raised concerns about Beijing’s “gray zone” tactics—operations that fall short of war. Taiwanese authorities are investigating the incident, which disrupted internet communications. While no direct evidence implicates the ship, its erratic movements and dual positioning numbers are considered suspicious. Beijing dismissed the concerns, citing common maritime incidents. Experts warn such sabotage could sever Taiwan’s global connectivity, affecting its economy and defence. Taiwan is exploring satellite options and bolstering infrastructure as tensions with China escalate.
SOUTH KOREA FACES POLITICAL TURMOIL
South Korea faces a deepening political crisis as Park Chong-jun, head of the Presidential Security Service, resigns amid investigations into impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. Yoon, accused of insurrection for imposing martial law in December, has refused to cooperate with the Corruption Investigation Office’s probe. Acting President Choi Sang-mok accepted Park’s resignation, which came just before Park’s questioning. Yoon’s legal team disputes the investigation’s jurisdiction, while his arrest could make him the first sitting South Korean president to be detained. Public protests for and against Yoon intensify as authorities prepare for further actions.
