Episode Details

Good morning, welcome to BTW Daily News, I’m your host. Today is January 14, 2026. Let’s dive straight into the headlines.First, in Iran, protests have intensified. Authorities report hundreds of demonstrators still on the streets, with violence escalating after authorities label the protests as “terrorist acts.” The regime’s hardline stance threatens to widen the humanitarian crisis.In a related domestic response, Iran’s chief justice called on the regime to “swiftly punish” protest detainees, signalling a tough crackdown that could spark further unrest.Across the globe, President Trump has again turned his attention to the Arctic. He threatened to enter Greenland’s waters and seize resources, warning that the U.S. must “protect its interests” in the region, stirring diplomatic tension with Denmark.In the Middle East, U.S. staff in Qatar have been ordered to vacate their base after Tehran announced it could launch a “major escalation” if U.S. forces remain, heightening a fragile region‑wide standoff.Back on the ground, a tragic rail disaster struck Thailand late last night when a construction crane collapsed onto a moving passenger train, killing at least 22 people. Rescue teams are working to recover survivors and investigate the cause.Across the United States, California officials are debating “ICE‑free zones” on governmental property to shield residents from immigration raids, a move that could strain federal partnerships and fund allocations.In business news, Saks Global, the luxury department store chain, filed for bankruptcy protection after a $3.4 billion debt load, marking a significant shift in the retail landscape as it reorganizes its store portfolio.On entertainment, the world mourns the loss of Scott Adams, the Dilbert comic strip creator, who passed away at 68 after a four‑year battle with cancer. His sharp satire will be deeply missed.In sports, Swiss skier Mikaela Shiffrin clinched her second consecutive slalom title in a world cup race, while American teammate Paula Moltzan took second. Their performance under lights in Austria underscores Shiffrin’s continued dominance.Finally, in international trade, China reported a record $1.2 trillion trade surplus in 2025, the highest since 2013, as exports surged despite ongoing U.S. tariffs and global supply chain shifts.That wraps our top stories for today. Thank you for listening to BTW Daily News. Have a great day.