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Hong Kong National Security Trial Opens for Three Former Alliance Leaders

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On January 22, 2026, the High Court of Hong Kong began hearing a national security law case against three former leaders of the now‑disbanded Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China. The defendants, Chow Hang‑tung, Lee Cheuk‑yan, and Albert Ho Chun‑yan, are charged with “inciting subversion of state power,” a crime that carries a maximum sentence of up to ten years’ imprisonment.

Chow Hang‑tung, the former vice‑chair of the Alliance, and Lee Cheuk‑yan, a veteran pro‑democracy leader, have pleaded not guilty and will mount a defense, arguing that their calls for democratic reform do not constitute subversion. Albert Ho Chun‑yan, former chairman of the Democratic Party, has pleaded guilty, and the court may consider this in sentencing.

Prosecutors claim that the Alliance’s long-standing advocacy to end one‑party rule violates China’s constitutional order, while the defense maintains that their actions were peaceful political expression and advocacy for democratic reform, not criminal offenses.

The defendants have a long history of organizing the annual June 4 candlelight vigil in Victoria Park to commemorate the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown, an event that was once considered a symbol of freedom in Hong Kong. Following the COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of the National Security Law, the vigil was banned and the Alliance formally disbanded in 2021.

The trial, expected to last around 75 days, is being overseen by three judges designated under the National Security Law. It is widely seen as a significant indicator of Hong Kong’s shrinking space for freedom of expression and civil society, drawing criticism from international human rights organizations concerned about the limitations on political expression and the preservation of historical memory.

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Starmer suggests Prince Andrew testify to US Congress

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The BBC reports that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer suggested that former royal, stripped of his titles, Prince Andrew, Duke of York, should testify before the US Congress regarding documents, photos, and communications related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Recently released documents and photos show interactions and meetings between Andrew and Epstein, including some concerning images. BBC Verify has confirmed that parts of the interior and other images match Epstein’s New York mansion, implying a connection to past cases.

Starmer stated that anyone holding key information should consider testifying in Congress, especially from the victims’ perspective, to ensure full transparency of evidence. These recommendations follow the release of a batch of documents including historical communications and photos, though Andrew himself denies any wrongdoing.

Other newly revealed documents include communications and financial transactions involving other individuals, some of whom deny wrongdoing or claim the situation has been exaggerated.

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Hollywood Star Mickey Rourke’s Fundraiser Halted

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Hollywood actor Mickey Rourke recently faced reports of overdue rent and possible eviction. An online fundraising campaign initiated by a team member, which had raised over $149,000 USD (approximately 200,000 AUD), was subsequently halted, and all donations were refunded.

Rourke had been renting a property in Beverly Grove, Los Angeles, where his monthly rent increased from around $5,200 USD ($7,700 AUD) in 2025 to about $7,000 USD ($10,000 AUD), and he owed nearly $60,000 USD in back rent. The fundraiser on GoFundMe, launched by a member of his management team to help him cover the rent, quickly attracted significant support.

However, Rourke stated on social media that he felt “humiliated” and confused by the initiative, emphasizing that he did not request outside donations and did not approve of this type of “charity-style” fundraising, which he felt did not fit his style. The fundraiser page was then suspended, and all contributions were gradually returned.

Rourke’s manager said the fundraiser was intended as a goodwill effort to prevent eviction, without any malice. All donations had not been used and were being refunded to supporters.

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Trump Warns Iran of Swift Attack if Nuclear Talks Refused

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US President Donald Trump recently issued an unprecedented warning to Iran, threatening that if Tehran does not reach a nuclear agreement, the US will launch a military strike with “speed and violence.” The US has deployed the aircraft carrier USS Lincoln and several missile destroyers to the Middle East, ready to take action at any moment.

Trump called on Iran via social media to “immediately negotiate and reach an agreement banning nuclear weapons,” warning that the consequences would be more severe than last year’s US strike on Iranian nuclear facilities. Iran responded that it is willing to engage in dialogue based on mutual respect and interests but warned it would defend itself with unprecedented force if pressured.

Domestic protests in Iran have lasted about a month, evolving into a challenge against the theocratic regime, with at least 6,221 people reported dead due to the crackdown. The Iranian rial recently fell to a historic low, sparking public anxiety and anger. Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have stated they will not allow US forces to use their airspace for attacks on Iran. Egypt and Turkey have also attempted diplomatic interventions to ease tensions and prevent the region from falling into a cycle of instability.

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