Japan has launched a bold effort to secure its future supply of critical minerals by sending a research vessel to mine rare earth elements from the deep seabed near Minamitori Island. The month-long mission marks the first attempt anywhere in the world to lift mineral-rich mud from six kilometres below the ocean surface. This project reflects Japan’s growing urgency to reduce reliance on China, which currently dominates global rare earth supply and has recently banned exports of items destined for Japan’s military. Rare earths are essential for cars, electronics, renewable energy technologies and defence equipment, making supply disruptions a serious economic and security concern. Since a similar crisis in 2010, Japan has diversified imports, invested overseas and built stockpiles, yet still remains heavily dependent on China. Domestic seabed mining could provide a long-term solution, though it is costly, technically complex and years away from full production.
A devastating rail disaster in northeast Thailand has left at least 31 people dead after a construction crane collapsed onto a speeding passenger train, causing it to derail and burst into flames. The accident occurred as the train was travelling from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani, carrying nearly 200 passengers. More than sixty were injured, several critically, as fire engulfed damaged carriages. The crane was part of a Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project, part of an ambitious plan to connect China with south-east Asia. The company concerned was involved in the construction of a Bangkok building which collapsed in March during an earthquake. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with carriages torn open and rescue workers scrambling to reach trapped passengers. Authorities have ordered a full investigation, while political leaders have vowed accountability. The tragedy has shocked the nation and renewed public scrutiny of large infrastructure projects and the human cost when safety is compromised.
DRC: deadly landslide kills at least 22
16 Jan 2026
A deadly landslide has struck eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, killing at least 22 people and leaving dozens missing in a remote village in North Kivu. Triggered by hours of intense rainfall, the hillside collapsed in the early hours of the morning while residents were asleep, sweeping homes away and cutting the main road linking Goma with Walikale. The blocked route has severely hampered rescue efforts and delayed government assistance. Eastern Congo has endured decades of violence involving government forces and armed groups, including the Rwanda-backed M23. The disaster highlights the vulnerability of communities living in areas where the state’s presence is weak and insecurity is high. In a region already scarred by conflict, displacement and poverty, seasonal rains continue to claim lives, deepening the humanitarian crisis faced by countless families. See also
Special police forces and heavy machinery have surrounded Yayang Church in Zhejiang province, raising fears the building could be damaged or its cross removed. Images shared online by Bob Fu of China Aid show scaffolding around the roof and cross, while security cordons have prevented filming and forced nearby residents to leave. The action follows a December crackdown in which around two hundred people linked to the church were arrested or dispersed without explanation, and two church leaders were detained as alleged suspects in a ‘criminal organisation’, without specific charges detailed. Observers say the incident reflects wider pressure on unregistered churches, which face surveillance and arrests across China. Communist Party officials view independent religious belief as a challenge to state control, and rights groups warn such actions are becoming increasingly common. Breaking news: Bob Fu has posted that ‘part of the church building Is being forcefully destroyed’.
A Turkish national has been jailed for eleven years after being convicted of supplying thousands of small boats and engines used by people smugglers to carry migrants across the English Channel. Adem Savas, 45, was identified as a key supplier following a major investigation by the National Crime Agency into a Europe-wide smuggling network. Posing as a legitimate maritime trader, he shipped inflatable boats from Turkey, sourced cheap outboard engines from China, and stored equipment in Germany. Investigators believe he supplied equipment used in thousands of Channel crossings between 2019 and 2024, including boats linked to fatal incidents. Savas worked closely with convicted smuggling kingpin Hewa Rahimpur, whose network moved more than ten thousand migrants into the UK. He knowingly profited from supplying vessels unfit for dangerous sea crossings, earning millions while exposing vulnerable people to serious harm and death.
What UK Christians can expect to see in 2026
08 Jan 2026
Following what many have described as a 'quiet revival' in 2025, Christian leaders believe 2026 could mark an unprecedented season of spiritual openness in Britain. Writing for the Evangelical Alliance, Phil Knox identifies five missional trends shaping the year ahead. Research shows remarkable growth in church attendance among 18- to 24-year-olds, especially men, signalling a turning tide after decades of decline. Yet Knox cautions that increased openness will not automatically lead to Christian conversion, as seekers may also explore alternative spiritualities, including paganism and the occult. He anticipates a rise in unexplained spiritual encounters, which already play a significant role in many adult faith journeys. Churches are urged to connect social action such as foodbank ministry with clear invitations to faith. Knox also expects Bible sales to continue rising as younger generations seek truth in a confused cultural landscape. He says that discipleship will be essential, as new believers need spiritual formation, community, and nurturing relationships to remain rooted and fruitful.
Ole Miss quarterback gives glory to Jesus
08 Jan 2026
Mississippi quarterback Trinidad Chambliss has captured national attention not only for his remarkable rise in college football, but for his bold and consistent Christian witness. After leading Ole Miss to a dramatic comeback victory over Georgia in the Sugar Bowl quarterfinal, Chambliss immediately gave glory to Jesus during a live ESPN interview, declaring his gratitude to Christ for sustaining him through every high and low. The win followed a standout performance in which Chambliss threw passes for 362 yards and two touchdowns. His faith has remained central throughout the season, especially after stepping in as starting quarterback following injury to a teammate. He regularly credits Jesus for giving him peace amid pressure, openly sharing his testimony with media and fans alike. Raised in a faith-centred family, his name, meaning 'Trinity’, reflects his parents’ commitment to Christ. Chambliss continues to trust God fully, offering a powerful example of humility, courage, and public faith.
UK armed forces helped US seizure of tanker
08 Jan 2026
The UK armed forces have confirmed they supported a US-led operation to seize a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic, amid growing concerns over so-called 'shadow fleets' evading international sanctions. The tanker, Marinera, was intercepted while sailing between Iceland and Scotland after US authorities obtained a legal warrant to seize it. At Washington’s request, the UK provided surveillance support through RAF aircraft and a Royal Navy support vessel. Defence secretary John Healey said the action fully complied with international law and formed part of stepped-up efforts to counter malign activity at sea. The tanker is accused of transporting oil on behalf of Iran, Russia and Venezuela, with proceeds allegedly financing terrorism and contributing to Russia’s war in Ukraine. Moscow has condemned the seizure, while the US praised UK cooperation.