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International Tensions Rise as Rafah Crossing Set to Reopen, Iran Faces Pressure, and Swiss Bar Fire Death Toll Climbs
International affairs were in focus as Israel announced the limited reopening of the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt, while tensions remained high between the United States and Iran, and the death toll from a Swiss bar fire continued to climb.
Israel stated that the Rafah crossing would reopen on Monday for a limited pilot phase, according to COGAT, the Israeli military agency that controls aid to Gaza (Al Jazeera). The crossing would be open in both directions for Gaza residents on foot, with operations coordinated with Egypt and the European Union. This reopening comes as thousands of sick and wounded Palestinians await urgent medical care abroad (Al Jazeera).
Meanwhile, the United States and Iran continued to exchange words amidst ongoing tensions. US President Donald Trump expressed hope for a deal with Iran after Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned of a potential "regional conflict" if the US attacked (Sky News). Trump, when asked about Khamenei's remarks, responded, "Why wouldn't he say that? Of course, he could say that" (Sky News).
Adding to the complexities in Iran, Iranian protester Erfan Soltani, who had been detained during protests on January 8, was released on bail (Sky News). Soltani's family had been informed that he faced the death penalty, but his release was confirmed by a relative and reported by Kurdish and Iranian human rights organization Hengaw, as well as Iranian state media ISNA (Sky News). Trump had previously warned he would take "strong action" if any protesters were executed (Sky News).
In Switzerland, the death toll from a New Year's Day fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana rose to 41 after an 18-year-old Swiss national died from injuries sustained in the blaze (Sky News). The teenager died in a Zurich hospital on Saturday, according to the Swiss public prosecutor, which did not provide further details (Sky News). The fire also injured more than 100 others, and an investigation into the cause is ongoing (Sky News).
Separately, in Pakistan, violence continued in Balochistan, where more than 100 people have been killed in a recent wave of attacks (Al Jazeera). The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for the attacks, stating they are fighting for an independent Balochistan (Al Jazeera). The Pakistani government blames its enemies for the violence in the region (Al Jazeera).
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