Diary
ISTANBUL
Here are the main topics Anadolu's English Desk plans to cover on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026 (coverage may change depending on developing/ breaking stories):
Escalation in Yemen
Developments in Yemen after the government's National Shield Forces announced they have taken full control of the desert and valley region of the eastern Hadhramaut province, consolidating their hold on Seiyun International Airport and beginning to move toward the coastal districts following the withdrawal of Southern Transitional Council (STC) fighters from key positions. Amid military escalation, regional calls for diplomacy and dialogue continue.
Israel’s violation of Gaza ceasefire
The Israeli army’s daily breaches of the Gaza ceasefire, including gunfire and strikes targeting civilians in areas designated as safe, alongside damage to homes and civilian facilities
Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon despite ceasefire
The Israeli airstrikes on multiple areas in southern Lebanon under the pretext of targeting Hezbollah infrastructure despite a ceasefire agreement that has been in place since November 2024.
Reactions to US strikes on Venezuela
Reactions from across the world over US strikes on Venezuela and capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores. The US strikes has drawn mixed reactions from Europeans governments. Meanwhile, US Attorney General Pam Bondi said Maduro and his wife have been indicted in New York.
Trump returns to Washington, DC, after holidays
US President Donald Trump will return to Washington, DC, after spending holidays at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida.
US seizes Venezuelan president in military operation in Caracas
Developments related to the US’ “Operation Absolute Resolve” in parts of Venezuela, including the capital Caracas, where special forces captured President Nicolas Maduro and first lady Cilia Flores, flying them out of the country to New York to face trial over allegations of “narco-terrorism.”
South Korean President Lee kicks off China trip
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung kicks off 4-day state visit to China, to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. It is first such trip to China by any South Korean leader since 2017.
Irish Premier Micheal Martin visits China
Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin kicks off 5-day state visit to China, to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. This is the first visit by an Irish Premier to China in 14 years.
China, Pakistan hold strategic dialogue
Chinese and Pakistani top diplomats hold 7th Pakistan-China foreign ministers’ strategic dialogue in Beijing, which will be co-chaired by Wang Yi and his Pakistani counterpart Ishaq Dar. During the meeting, both sides are expected to review full spectrum of bilateral cooperation.
