February 18, 2026

93 Countries Condemn Israel’s West Bank Land Moves and Bar Al Aqsa Imam

Israel bars Al Aqsa imam and pushes West Bank land expansion, sparking outrage from 93 nations including Arab League and EU calling for reversal.

February 18, 2026

Kremlin Threatens Navy Action to Stop Western Seizure of Russian Ships

A senior Kremlin official warned Russia may deploy its navy to stop Western powers from seizing Russian merchant ships amid sanctions. Kremlin calls these actions “piracy-like attacks” and vows to protect vital oil and grain shipments.

February 18, 2026

Radio Free Asia Resumes China Broadcasts After Trump-Era Funding Cut

Radio Free Asia (RFA) has restarted broadcasting to China in Mandarin, Tibetan, and Uyghur after Trump appointee cut US funding. Private contracts now support the broadcasts while waiting for Congress to approve funds.

February 18, 2026

Wealthy Americans Lead Surge in New Zealand Gold Visa Applications Post Rule Changes

New Zealand's revamped golden visa has attracted 573 applications mainly from wealthy Americans. The Active Investor Plus visa now requires less investment and only three weeks' residency. Investors seek New Zealand’s beauty and safety from Trump-era politics. The scheme has already generated $3.39 billion for the country.

February 18, 2026

Texas Activist Sparks Row Over 90-Foot Hanuman Statue in Sugar Land

A Texas conservative activist's post against a giant Hanuman statue in Sugar Land sparked backlash from Indian-Americans. The 90-foot statue symbolizes strength and devotion and is the tallest in North America.