More than 125,000 refugees return to Syria in desperate conditions

The Metropolitan Police faces a legal challenge from Sergeant Lino Di Maria, who is at risk of dismissal over unproven allegations of rape and domestic abuse, potentially hindering their ability to remove problematic officers. Di Maria's vetting clearance was revoked following public complaints, including accusations of sexual assaults in car parks, which he denies and has not been charged for. His judicial review questions the validity of vetting procedures, emphasizing the importance of maintaining integrity...

Your support enables The Independent to cover important stories like reproductive rights, climate change, and Big Tech, with a commitment to uncovering facts amidst messaging. Donations help fund on-the-ground reporting, ensuring access to quality journalism for all Americans. An Environment Agency report reveals RAF bases, airports, and fire stations as major hotspots for "forever chemical" pollution, with high levels of PFAS contamination impacting drinking water sources and prompting investigations and actions from authorities and companies....

Sir Keir Starmer faced Kemi Badenoch at PMQs following a surprise fall in inflation, boosting chancellor Rachel Reeves. Inflation dropped to 2.5%, leading to speculation of a Bank of England interest rate cut in February, easing government bond market turbulence. Treasury minister Darren Jones dismissed emergency budget talk, stating there will only be one major fiscal event per year. Full Article

Germany’s economic growth has declined for a second year in a row, with manufacturing and construction sectors particularly affected by competition and rising costs. The upcoming election is focusing on how to revive the economy, with a strong emphasis on economic reform and investment. Proposals include reviving industry, investing in infrastructure, lowering energy prices, and cutting taxes to stimulate growth and competitiveness in the country. Full Article

The search for missing sisters Eliza and Henrietta Huszti, both 32, has entered its second week as detectives revisit the River Dee where they were last seen. The siblings, part of a set of triplets from Aberdeen, were reported missing from their home with no signs of criminality or third-party involvement. Police are considering the theory that they may have entered the water, leading to extensive search efforts involving the police helicopter, dog branch, and...

The Princess of Wales has been gradually returning to her royal duties after a challenging year marked by her cancer diagnosis in March and subsequent preventative chemotherapy treatment. Her husband Prince William also faced a cancer diagnosis during the same year, making 2024 a particularly difficult time for the royal family. Despite the health struggles, the princess confirmed her remission for cancer on January 14 and made a surprise visit to the Royal Marsden Hospital...