US-Iran Tensions Surge, Verizon Outage Hits Millions, and Global Crises Deepen – 1/15/2026, 8:29:24 AM

Top world news as of January 15, 2026, centers on escalating US-Iran tensions, a major Verizon outage, and ongoing global crises in Yemen and Gaza.

US-Iran Tensions

US troops at the largest American base in the Middle East have been warned to prepare for possible evacuation amid soaring tensions, following President Trump’s threat of “very strong action” if Iran executes jailed protesters[1][3]. Iran temporarily closed its airspace for nearly five hours on January 14 due to concerns over potential US military action, reopening it later before extending the commercial flight ban until 7:30 a.m. local time on January 15[1][3]. Protests in Iran, sparked by inflation and currency collapse, have led to over 600 deaths—including nine children—and more than 10,000 arrests, prompting the US State Department to urge all Americans to leave immediately and India to advise its ~10,000 citizens to depart[1][3][4]. Trump reportedly seeks any potential attack on Iran to be “definitive,” while expressing hopes for the clerical regime’s collapse[3].

US Domestic and Other News

A widespread Verizon Wireless outage has affected millions of customers nationwide, preventing calls and 911 access[1]. President Trump reiterated the US “needs Greenland” for national security during White House talks with Danish officials, with France sending military forces at Denmark’s request[1]. The US plans to suspend visa processing for 75 countries starting next week[1]. The FBI searched a Washington Post reporter’s home over alleged classified documents[1]. Justice Department probes target Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell amid Trump’s pressure for lower rates[3][4].

Middle East and Global Developments

In Gaza, a Palestinian technocratic committee has launched to manage affairs post-Hamas, with US officials noting 53,120 aid trucks since the October ceasefire under Trump’s peace plan; however, shelter shortages persist due to Israeli restrictions on tent materials[3]. An IDF reservist was seriously injured by an unintentional discharge in northern Gaza[3]. Yemen faces deepening hunger and displacement as political calm unravels and aid restrictions intensify[2]. UN General Assembly President calls for defending the multilateral system amid pressures[2]. China’s moving to slow a market bull run[5].