2026 arrives under both fireworks and storm clouds. Cities worldwide ushered in the new year with dazzling displays, even as forecasters warned of disruptive storms for parts of the U.S. through the holiday stretch [1], [2].

Public health officials are also sounding the alarm on an early-season surge in flu indicators, a reminder that indoor gatherings and travel remain high‑risk drivers of respiratory illness [2].

Overnight security developments added to a tense turn-of-year. The U.S. military struck three vessels, leaving survivors and prompting a shift into a search-and-rescue operation, according to ABC News reporting [3]. In a separate development, a CIA drone strike was reportedly carried out on a dock facility in Venezuela, underscoring geopolitical flashpoints that could shape the opening weeks of 2026 [1].

Across the Atlantic, Queen Camilla shared a deeply personal account of an assault she says occurred in the 1960s as she renewed her advocacy against domestic violence—an unusually candid royal message intended to reduce stigma and encourage survivors to come forward [4].

In culture and remembrance: Artists are canceling Kennedy Center shows amid backlash over the institution’s renaming after former President Donald Trump, spotlighting the ongoing collision of politics and the arts [1]. Tributes are pouring in for actor Isiah Whitlock Jr., known for The Wire and Spike Lee films, who died at 71 [2]. And year-end assessments suggest 2025 closed with the largest recorded one‑year drop in U.S. homicides, a rare bright spot in crime data that policymakers will be watching as 2026 begins [1].

Policy watch: India is moving to raise goods and services tax rates on so‑called “sin” goods beginning Feb. 1, with tobacco and pan masala set to draw a 40% levy, part of a broader effort to curb consumption and boost revenue [5].

References

1. New Year’s 2026: Celebrations around the world – ABC News
2. Ringing in the new year with wicked weather – ABC News
3. US strikes 3 vessels and leaves survivors — now a search-and-rescue operation – ABC News
4. Video Queen Camilla recalls 1960s assault as she campaigns against domestic violence – ABC News
5. New GST rates for sin goods from Feb 1! Tobacco & pan masala to attract 40% tax – check details – Times of India