World

Thousands are feared dead after Iran’s violent crackdown on anti-government protests, as internet shutdowns make it difficult to verify the scale of casualties.

Iran has warned it will retaliate if attacked by the United States as protests spread across the country despite an intensified security crackdown. Human rights groups report hundreds killed and thousands detained amid an escalating crisis.

Protests in Iran have entered their 13th day as authorities impose a nationwide internet blackout and security forces clash with demonstrators in several major cities.

Ten people have been convicted by a Paris court of cyberbullying France’s First Lady Brigitte Macron, following years of false and abusive online claims.

The US has launched a “large-scale strike” on Venezuela and captured President Nicolás Maduro, according to President Donald Trump. Venezuelan officials deny the claims as international concern mounts.

Witnesses have described panic and chaos after a rapidly spreading fire swept through a packed bar in the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana during New Year’s Eve celebrations.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has rejected Russian claims that Ukraine carried out attacks on government sites, describing the allegations as an attempt to derail peace talks.

Large parts of Kyiv lost power and heating after a major Russian missile and drone attack damaged residential areas and energy infrastructure overnight.