The European Union has ordered Meta to allow rival AI chatbots access to WhatsApp, claiming the tech giant is abusing its dominant market position, according to a report by BBC Technology. The EU's decision, announced after Meta blocked other AI firms' chatbots from the messaging app on January 15th, could have significant implications for the burgeoning AI market.
The European Commission stated that WhatsApp is a crucial entry point for AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, to reach users. By restricting access, Meta is allegedly violating EU rules. A Meta spokesperson, however, told the BBC that the EU had "no reason" to intervene and had "incorrectly" assumed WhatsApp Business was a key way that people use chatbots. The spokesperson further stated that Meta is working to protect effective competition in the AI market.
In other news, Scotland defeated Italy in a T20 World Cup match in Kolkata, India, on February 9, 2026, according to Al Jazeera. Italy, making its T20 World Cup debut, suffered a crushing 73-run loss. Scotland posted a score of 207-4, with George Munsey scoring 84 runs. Italy was bowled out for 134 in 16.4 overs.
Meanwhile, the Iberian Peninsula has been hit by a third deadly storm in two weeks, as reported by The Guardian. Storm Marta brought further flooding and damage to Spain and Portugal, following the devastation caused by Storms Kristin and Leonardo. Residents in the village of Ubrique, in Cadiz, Spain, were seen surveying flooded streets.
In the realm of international relations, Pakistan is expanding its defense diplomacy, as highlighted by Al Jazeera. From February 2 to 4, 2026, Libyan eastern commander Khalifa Haftar visited Rawalpindi for talks at Pakistan's army headquarters. Pakistan formalized a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement with Saudi Arabia on September 17, 2025.
Finally, Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is set to seize more power after an election victory, according to Sky News. This victory could potentially threaten the stability of the region, with China closely monitoring the situation. The election results suggest a significant mandate for Takaichi, potentially changing the landscape of Japan and the surrounding region.
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