World news bites: TikTok returns to U.S. after Trump’s intervention

Rorisang Modiba brings you daily global updates.

USA – TikTok was temporarily shut down in the US at the weekend due to a law banning the app, leaving users unable to access it. However, after President-elect Donald Trump announced plans to issue an executive order delaying the law’s enforcement, TikTok quickly returned to service for U.S. users. The company credited Trump’s efforts for restoring access, stating that his actions provided clarity to service providers. This development is a relief to TikTok’s 170 million U.S. users and the millions of small businesses relying on the app. Despite the short shutdown, securing TikTok’s long-term future in the U.S. remains uncertain.

Palestine – As part of the first phase of the ceasefire, 90 Palestinian prisoners, mostly women and teenage boys, were released overnight, according to the Israeli prison service. In exchange, three Israeli women, including a dual British national, were released by Hamas and are receiving treatment in a Tel Aviv hospital. Emotional reunions took place on both sides, with Palestinians welcomed by their families and freed hostage Emily Damari sharing a video call with her loved ones. While the ceasefire in Gaza took effect after a brief delay, the joy of the releases was tempered by the destruction many Palestinians faced when returning to their homes, leaving uncertainty about what comes next.

Sudan – Police in South Sudan have imposed a night curfew in Juba following violent protests that turned into looting of Sudanese-owned businesses. The unrest was triggered by reports of South Sudanese civilians killed by Sudan’s Armed Forces in Wad Madani, Sudan. Protests led to heavy gunfire and security force deployments, with police firing warning shots to disperse crowds. Authorities assured the protection of Sudanese nationals in South Sudan, warning against looting. The violence reflects rising tensions between the two nations, as many South Sudanese remain stranded in conflict-hit Sudan.

Nigeria – Nigeria has become the ninth BRICS partner, joining Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. BRICS now represents over half of the global population and 45% of global GDP, increasing its international influence. Nigeria, as a major oil producer, adds significant economic weight to the group. The partnership allows Nigeria to attend BRICS meetings and events but does not grant full membership rights, such as voting privileges.

Pictured above: TikTok.

Source: File

spot_imgspot_imgspot_imgspot_img

Recent articles