Trump Elected, Biden Makes Final Address, Israel-Hamas Ceasefire

Israel-Hamas Ceasefire

Three Israeli hostages were released from Gaza, signaling the start of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The New York Times reported that 90 Palestinian prisoners would also be released as part of the deal.

The ceasefire brought joyful celebrations in Gaza, and Israeli forces began withdrawing from parts of the territory.

A next round of hostage-prisoner swap is expected to occur on Saturday, and the ceasefire deal will be implemented in three stages.

Biden's Final Address

US President Joe Biden delivered his final address in office. He declared the ceasefire in Gaza a result of an effective policy that had averted a wider conflict in the Middle East.

Biden noted the significant pain, death, and loss of life during his presidency, and expressed hope that the next administration would help implement the ceasefire deal.

Trump's Inauguration and Inaugural Events

Donald Trump held a "Make America Great Again Victory Rally" on Sunday and is set to take the oath of office as the 47th US President on Monday.

The rally featured speeches from Elon Musk, JD Vance, and Megyn Kelly, and TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is reportedly planning to attend the rally and inauguration.

Domestic News: Dutton Draws Level, Djokovic Speaks Out

The Australian Financial Review reports that Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has drawn level with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as preferred PM in recent opinion polls.

Novak Djokovic vowed to refuse on-court interviews at the Australian Open until he receives an apology from Nine Network after comments made by its sports anchor.

Lighter Note: Orwell Commemorative Coin

A commemorative coin featuring the phrase "Big Brother is watching you" has been released to mark the 75th anniversary of George Orwell's death.

The coin features a camera lens-like design, symbolizing the omnipresent surveillance that Orwell depicted in his novel 1984.