Top World News

Feb 16, 2026 - World

An economic plan from world leaders could reduce the impact of Donald Trump's tariff policy worldwide, insiders say. The president's economic plan, which he implemented during his second term, has caused disruptions domestically and internationally. World leaders are now seeking a way through the economic spiral, and Canadian PM Mark Carney is believed to be at the helm of this plan. Insiders, speaking to Politico, confirmed there are nearly 40 countries interested in the talks. A Canadian government official said, "The work is definitely coming along. We’ve had very fruitful discussions on it with other partners around the world."Both the European Union and members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, including Canada, Mexico, and Australia, are keen to stand against Trump's economic policies and their effects on the wider world. A Japanese trade official said, "We see a lot of value in increasing trade among the EU and CPTPP parties, which would also contribute to enhancing supply chain resilience."Another diplomat from an unnamed nation spoke positively of the possible alliance between the EU and CPTPP. They said, "If the EU is up for the conversation, then of course it would make things very interesting indeed."Klemens Kober, director of trade policy, EU customs and transatlantic relations at the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry, also confirmed relevant parties were looking into an agreement which, if signed, could hinder Trump and his administration's hold on world economics.All relevant actors are looking at it," Kober said. "If there can be a focus on having these rules as harmonized and simple as possible, as part of these negotiations, that could prove advantageous for German companies."Having the possibility of cumulating origin between different FTAs is very useful. We hope that if that’s a success, if you can see tangible benefits in different areas, that could also entice other countries to join in and team up in a positive sense. So the more the merrier."

Feb 16, 2026 - World

The group of 34 – families of dead or jailed extremists – were prevented from returning to Australia by ‘poor coordination’ with DamascusGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAustralian women and children held for years without charge were forced to return to a detention camp in northeast Syria on Monday after being released by Kurdish authorities for their expected repatriation to Australia.The 34 women and children in the group are the wives, widows and children of dead or jailed Islamic State fighters and were being held at al-Roj camp, which is controlled by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Continue reading...

Feb 16, 2026 - World

Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan's sister Aleema Khanum spoke out against Khan's treatment in jail and his worsening health.

Feb 16, 2026 - World

Firm says person fined A$10,000 is one of over two dozen staff in Australia caught using AI in exams since JulyBusiness live – latest updatesA partner at the consultancy KPMG has been fined for using artificial intelligence to cheat during an internal training course on AI.The unnamed partner was fined A$10,000 (£5,200) for using the technology to cheat, one of a number of staff reportedly using the tactic. Continue reading...

Feb 16, 2026 - World

An Indian-origin man has been sentenced to five months in jail for using criminal force towards a woman with the intent to outrage her modesty, according to a media report.