Author: Rachel Maddow

Iran is facing a mounting crisis as nationwide protests enter their third week, the death toll rises, and the country remains largely cut off from the internet. At the same time, reports suggest the US and Israel are discussing possible military action, prompting stark warnings from Tehran. Tehran Issues Stern Warnings Iranian officials have made it clear that any US strike would be met with retaliation. Speaking in parliament on Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said that US military sites, shipping centres, and Israel would be considered “legitimate targets” if the United States attacks. Iran does not recognise…

Governments are under growing pressure to tackle the outsized carbon footprint of the world’s richest citizens. Campaigners are urging action to ban carbon-intensive luxury goods and impose higher taxes on fossil fuel profits to help meet global climate targets. New research from Oxfam reveals the extreme environmental impact of the super-rich. The richest one per cent of people had already exhausted their annual carbon budget just 10 days into 2026 — a milestone dubbed “Pollutocrat Day.” This budget marks the limit of CO₂ emissions compatible with keeping global warming under 1.5℃. The ultra-wealthiest 0.01 per cent surpassed their carbon limit…

TIME and Statista have released their 2024 ranking of the best U.S. midsize companies. The list highlights businesses that excel in growth, employee satisfaction, and sustainability. These rankings showcase firms that combine strong financial performance with positive workplace cultures. Many of the top companies are recognized for creating environments where employees thrive while maintaining steady growth. Companies were evaluated on several factors, including revenue growth, employee engagement, benefits, and sustainability initiatives. The rankings reflect how midsize companies balance profitability with social and environmental responsibility. Analysts note that midsize firms play a key role in the U.S. economy. They often drive…

The United States has seized another tanker in its ongoing effort to enforce sanctions on Venezuela, marking the fifth vessel intercepted in recent weeks amid a growing naval presence in the Caribbean. Targeting the “Ghost Fleet” US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described the seized tanker, Olina, as part of a “ghost” fleet — vessels accused of hiding their identities to transport embargoed oil. The ship reportedly left Venezuela attempting to evade US forces before being captured. “No ghost fleet will outrun justice,” Noem said, emphasizing that vessels using deceptive tactics will be held accountable. The operation was carried out…

Since late December, protests across Iran have intensified, with the Norway-based Iran Human Rights NGO reporting at least 45 demonstrators killed by security forces. What began as demonstrations against economic hardships has grown into a nationwide challenge to the government. Citizens Take to the Streets in Tehran On Thursday night, thousands of Iranians answered a call from exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi, shouting from their homes and rallying in the streets. Chants included “Death to the dictator!” and “Death to the Islamic Republic!” while others praised the former monarchy, proclaiming, “This is the last battle! Pahlavi will return!” Pahlavi urged…

Greenland, the vast Arctic island off Canada’s northeastern coast, has once again become a flashpoint in international politics. With more than two-thirds of its territory lying within the Arctic Circle, Greenland has long been crucial to North American defense, and now the Trump administration has renewed its push to bring the island under U.S. control. Trump Signals Military Option White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Tuesday that President Trump considers acquiring Greenland a national security priority, calling it “vital to deter our adversaries in the Arctic region.” She added that “the president and his team are discussing a range…

American Airlines is turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to improve travel for families. The airline is introducing advanced AI tools designed to make trips smoother, faster, and more enjoyable for vacationers across the United States. The new technology focuses on reducing common travel challenges. Families often face issues like long check-in lines, delayed luggage, and complicated boarding processes. AI tools aim to simplify these steps, helping travelers move more efficiently through airports. One key feature uses AI to optimize seating arrangements. Families can be automatically assigned seats together, even on crowded flights. The system also predicts potential delays and suggests…

North Korea has carried out new hypersonic missile tests under the supervision of leader Kim Jong-un, highlighting its commitment to strengthening the country’s nuclear capabilities. The tests come as Pyongyang ramps up military demonstrations ahead of the upcoming Workers’ Party congress, the first in five years. The announcement followed reports from neighboring countries detecting multiple ballistic missile launches, which they described as provocations. The timing was also notable, occurring just hours before South Korean President Lee Jae Myung departed for China to meet President Xi Jinping. Kim Emphasizes Military Readiness According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Sunday’s drill…

A single bluefin tuna captured the spotlight at Tokyo’s New Year auction, selling for a jaw-dropping price that set a new record for the market. Million-Euro Tuna Steals the Show At the first auction of 2026 at Tokyo’s Toyosu fish market, a massive 243-kilogram bluefin tuna fetched 510 million yen, around €2.78 million. The winning bid came from Kiyomura Corp., owned by Kiyoshi Kimura, the founder of the popular Sushi Zanmai chain. Kimura, a familiar figure at these annual auctions, surpassed his own 2019 record of 334 million yen. He admitted afterward that he had hoped to pay less, but…

Europe’s ski industry is facing a turning point as higher temperatures and shrinking snowfall force resorts to rethink how they operate. With the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina just weeks away, the slopes look pristine, but reliable snow is becoming an increasingly rare sight for tourists and local skiers alike. Snow Reliance and Rising Costs In many European resorts, snow is now mostly artificial. Making snow is expensive, energy-intensive, and consumes massive amounts of water. These costs are often passed on to visitors, pushing ski passes and winter holidays out of reach for many. For resorts that rely on steady snowfall…