In a high-level video conference, China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng voiced concerns over US tariffs and trade restrictions. Meanwhile, the US Treasury Secretary raised issues on economic policies and trade imbalances. Both sides recently imposed new tariffs, escalating tensions.

As part of a ceasefire agreement, Hamas has released six Israeli hostages, while Israel has freed 602 Palestinian prisoners. The exchange follows a prior swap of corpses, with Hamas accusing the Red Cross of bias.

During a meeting between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, Musk’s son, X, was caught on camera wiping his nose on the historic Resolute Desk. Following online buzz, Trump shared a photo of a new desk in the Oval Office, sparking speculation.

A 29-year-old Singaporean forged a death certificate to secure time off from work but was fined $4,000 after being caught. The act, which could have led to 10 years in jail, was exposed when his employer requested proof.

Record snowfall of up to 12 feet has paralyzed parts of Japan, with heavy snow and avalanche warnings issued. Transport disruptions, power outages, and building collapses threaten affected regions, as cold air inflows are expected to intensify.

Several empty buses were targeted in explosions in Bat Yam, a suburb of Tel Aviv. Israeli police confirmed the use of time bombs, prompting a citywide security sweep. In response, the government has heightened security and launched military operations in the West Bank.