The Bank of Japan raised its key policy rate to the highest level since 2008 and took a more bullish view on the strength of inflation.

The Bank of Japan raised interest rates on Friday to their highest since the 2008 global financial crisis and revised up its inflation forecasts, underscoring its confidence that rising wages will keep inflation stable around its 2% target.

The Bank of Japan on Friday raised the benchmark rate by 0.25 percentage points to 0.5 per cent. Consumer price inflation data for December was also released. Wit

The Israel Defense Forces insisted it was “not forcing the Palestinians to evacuate,” but said it had “allowed residents of the camp to evacuate … through an organized and secured point.”

As Israel withdraws some of its troops from Gaza during a cease-fire there, it has turned attention to another Palestinian territory — in particular a city with a history of militant activity.

Jenin, West Bank - January 23, 2025 Israel's major military operation in the occupied West Bank entered its third day Thursday, forcing hundreds of residents in the city of Jenin, around 120 kilometers north of Gaza,

Israel is expected to release up to 200 Palestinian prisoners on Saturday, but around 70 are set to be deported. Earlier four Israeli hostages returned to Israel after they were handed over to the Red Cross by Hamas in Gaza City.

A total of 200 Palestinian prisoners have been released to jubilant scenes in the West Bank after Israel freed them in exchange for four female hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. More than half of the 200 released had been serving life sentences in Israeli jails - some were convicted of multiple murders,