Prophecy News Watch - January 20, 2025

Around the World
EU and Mexico Reach New Trade Agreement Ahead of Trump Presidency
The European Union and Mexico agreed on a new trade agreement on Friday just before President Trump assumes office on Monday, the Wall Street Journal reported.
Numerous Killed In Indonesia Mall Fire
Eight bodies were found so far after a fire broke out at one of the oldest shopping malls in Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, as rescuers intensified search efforts for still missing persons, officials said Saturday.
Iran, Russia Sign Pact On Military, Trade Cooperation
The world faced more security challenges Saturday after Russia and Iran signed a controversial 20-year “strategic partnership” that was due to worry Israel, Ukraine, and their Western allies.

Israel-Palestinian Conflict
3 Hostages Reunite With Families, But More Work Ahead
Israelis across Israel celebrated Sunday the release of three women by Hamas, the first of nearly 100 hostages due to return home, dead or alive, following their abduction on October 7, 2023.
Hamas Releases Names Of Hostages As Ceasefire Was Supposed To Start
Hamas named the three hostages it planned to release Sunday, more than two hours after the ceasefire in Gaza was supposed to have begun. Israel had earlier made clear it would keep fighting until it received the names.
Israeli Security Cabinet Approves Hostage Deal, Set for Government Vote
Israel's Security Cabinet approved a hostage deal on Friday, where 33 Hamas captives will be released in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including hundreds serving life sentences.

Inside the United States
TikTok Restores U.S. Service Ater Trump Intervention
TikTok restored service to American users Sunday after temporarily shutting down in response to a Congressionally passed law upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court over its Chinese ownership.
Cruz Leads Effort to Repeal DOD COVID Vaccine Mandate, Protect Religious Freedom
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-TX, is leading an effort to reverse actions taken against military service members through a U.S. Department of Defense COVID-19 vaccine mandate, including protecting religious freedom.
Trump Rallies With Supporters Night Before Inauguration
Donald Trump, the 45th president of the United States, will be sworn in as its 47th at noon eastern Monday at an inauguration ceremony that was moved indoors because of anticipated freezing temperatures in Washington D.C..
TikTok Goes Dark In US Ahead Of Trump Inauguration
TikTok went dark in the United States on Sunday as the company's application, or app, was removed from prominent app stores, including those operated by tech giants Apple and Google, while its website told users that the short-form video platform was no longer available.