January 8, 2026

PM Albanese Set to Announce Federal Royal Commission on Bondi Terror Attack

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is likely to confirm a federal royal commission on the Bondi terror attack by Thursday afternoon. The inquiry will examine antisemitism and the attack that killed 15 people. Former High Court justice Virginia Bell is expected to lead the commission.

January 8, 2026

US Airstrikes Hit Lakurawa Group in Northwest Nigeria, Impact Unclear

The US struck the Lakurawa Islamist group in northwest Nigeria, claiming success. Details remain vague, with uncertain fighter casualties and questions over the target choice.

January 8, 2026

West Bengal Rejects Domicile Certificates in Voter Verification, Will Reissue Undelivered Voter IDs

West Bengal's electoral officials will not accept domicile certificates during Special Intensive Revision hearings. Voters may need fresh hearings. Nearly 10,000 voter ID cards went undelivered and will be resent after February 14.

January 8, 2026

Venezuela Opens Oil Market to US as Trump Gains Control Over Supplies

Venezuela's interim president backs oil trade with US despite past conflicts. Trump administration seizes tankers and plans to sell all Venezuelan crude globally. US VP JD Vance warns oil sales must serve American interests. Trump hits back with new deals and insists Venezuela buys only US products.

January 8, 2026

US ICE Agent Fatally Shoots Woman in Minneapolis; City Officials Reject Self-Defense Claim

A US immigration agent shot and killed a 37-year-old woman in Minneapolis. Local leaders rejected federal claims of self-defense. Protests erupted near the scene, amid nationwide ICE crackdown.