US President Donald Trump has imposed new sanctions targeting Iran’s oil network. The sanctions affect Iranian firms, ships, companies, and individuals linked to the sector, despite similar measures during Biden’s tenure. US Treasury Secretary Scott Besant stated that Iran continues using oil revenues to fund its nuclear program, ballistic missile development, and proxy terrorist groups. The US remains committed to countering these threats. Trump, who imposed numerous sanctions in his first term, has initiated further restrictions within a week of beginning his second term.

U.S. President Donald Trump has imposed sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC), accusing it of targeting the United States and its close ally, Israel, with "illegal and baseless actions." According to the BBC, Trump’s executive order stipulates that any individuals cooperating with ICC investigations against the U.S. or its allies will face economic and visa-related sanctions, along with potential penalties for their family members. The executive order argues that the ICC’s actions pose a direct threat to American personnel, increasing the risk of harassment and unlawful detentions. Prior to issuing the order, Trump reportedly held discussions with the Israeli Prime Minister regarding the matter.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has revealed plans for Israel to transfer control of Gaza to the United States after the war. He stated that, by then, Palestinians will be relocated to safer, more beautiful areas, with modern homes in secure locations. Trump mentioned that he had previously discussed evacuating Gaza and is now sharing the full plan. Despite global protests, he remains steadfast in his approach. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has praised the plan, supporting the removal of Palestinians from Gaza.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently visited Panama, where he urged Panamanian authorities to exempt U.S. government ships from canal tolls. Following his visit, the U.S. State Department announced that Panama has agreed to waive toll fees for U.S. government vessels, potentially saving millions of dollars. In November, former President Donald Trump had vowed to reclaim control over the Panama Canal. Rubio also raised concerns about Chinese investments in the canal, alleging that Panama had violated the 1997 agreement. As a result, Panama has withdrawn from China’s Belt and Road Initiative. However, China has denied any interference in Panama’s sovereignty, reaffirming its commitment to recognizing the canal as a neutral international waterway.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned U.S. President Donald Trump against supporting actions that could lead to ethnic cleansing in Gaza. Speaking at the UN Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, Guterres emphasized the importance of adhering to international law and avoiding policies that could worsen the crisis. He reiterated that a two-state solution remains the only viable path to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has offered all employees an early retirement package, providing eight months’ salary and benefits in exchange for resigning. This move is part of the federal government’s downsizing policy. However, mass layoffs are not expected. Given the CIA’s critical role in national security, this proposal has raised concerns. After taking office in January, Trump halted new CIA recruitments. Reports suggest that Trump wants to use the CIA in operations against drug cartels.

Donald Trump has withdrawn the United States from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine (UNRWA). He has also ordered the withdrawal of the U.S. from the UN Human Rights Council. Trump has hinted at reviewing U.S. funding for the UN and reconsidering relations with UNESCO. UN Secretary-General’s spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, expressed interest in strengthening ties with the U.S. to save lives amid global turmoil. The White House has stated that it will reconsider U.S. funding contributions, arguing that the U.S. has been treated unfairly compared to other countries.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has likened former U.S. President Donald Trump's "America First" policy to Adolf Hitler’s nationalist slogan, "Germany Above All." In an op-ed, Lavrov argued that such a stance undermines the post-war global order built on the UN Charter and sovereign equality. He expressed hope that the U.S. would shift away from dominance and cooperate as an equal global power, emphasizing Russia’s willingness to work together.

Protests have erupted globally, with hundreds of people gathering outside the White House in Washington D.C. against Trump’s threat to occupy Gaza. Demonstrators condemned Israel’s weapons supply and Trump’s desire for ethnic cleansing. Leaders from Saudi Arabia, Russia, China, and others have condemned the proposal, stressing the need for a two-state solution. International organizations and political figures warned that Trump’s actions could destabilize the region, leading to widespread conflict and violating international law.

A U.S. Air Force C-17 aircraft carrying Indian immigrants has departed for India, marking the beginning of the U.S. initiative to deport illegal Indian immigrants. Previously, the U.S. had deported undocumented migrants to Guatemala, Peru, Honduras, and Brazil. In January, India’s Foreign Minister stated that India has no objections to taking back its illegal immigrants, a message also conveyed to the U.S. Secretary of State. Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to meet U.S. President Donald Trump on February 13 in Washington, which is being described as a meeting between two close allies.

U.S. President Donald Trump has temporarily backed off from imposing a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican goods after both countries pledged to enhance border security and combat drug trafficking. Trump stated that Canada has assured the U.S. of securing its northern border, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has allocated $1.3 billion for border security. Previously, the Mexican president also confirmed reaching an agreement with the U.S.

According to Hindustan Times, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet U.S. President Donald Trump on February 13. Modi will arrive in Washington on February 12 and meet American corporate leaders and representatives of various Indian communities. Last week, Trump mentioned that Modi was coming for a meeting with him. Trump is focused on selling U.S. defense equipment to India and ensuring a fair trade relationship. In the 2023-24 fiscal year, trade between the two countries exceeded $118 billion.

Elon Musk, leading Donald Trump’s efforts to reduce federal government size, stated they are working to shut down USAID, calling it “beyond repair.” Musk and Trump both agree the world’s largest donor organization should be eliminated. Their comments followed the Trump administration’s removal of USAID security officials after they hindered Musk’s team. USAID, which disbursed $72bn in 2023, faces risk from Trump’s “America First” policy. Musk claims fraud and inefficiency in government, suggesting $1 trillion savings. Critics question Musk’s access to sensitive Treasury systems.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in the United States on Sunday afternoon, just as the Middle East faces extreme uncertainty with Donald Trump’s second term in power! The Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. has confirmed that a meeting between Trump and Netanyahu is set to strengthen Israel-U.S. relations. Netanyahu will also meet with top officials of the U.S. administration. Before Trump’s inauguration on January 20th, the 15-month-long war in Gaza had come to an end.

In line with his election promises, President Trump has decided to impose a 25% tariff on Mexican and Canadian goods, and a 10% tariff on Chinese products. The Wall Street Journal has dubbed it the “most foolish trade war in history.” Despite knowing the impact on the U.S. economy, Trump has defended the move, stating that countries like China, Mexico, and Canada are exploiting America, and that he will make America great again. In response to the increased tariffs, China expressed its anger and hinted at taking the matter to the World Trade Organization. Meanwhile, Canada has announced retaliatory tariffs.