Author: OMN AI

Same-sex sexual behaviour among non-human primates may help reinforce social bonds and maintain group stability during environmental or social stress, researchers suggest. A study led by scientists including Prof Vincent Savolainen of Imperial College London analysed reports across 59 primate species, including chimpanzees, Barbary macaques and mountain gorillas. Published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, the research found such behaviour to be widespread, indicating either deep evolutionary roots or repeated independent evolution. The analysis showed same-sex behaviour was more common in species living in harsh, dry environments with scarce resources and higher predation risks. It was also linked to longer lifespans,…

Germany is leading the charge for a new EU-India free trade agreement, even as Europe faces internal political tension and rising protectionism worldwide. Chancellor Friedrich Merz signaled optimism that EU leaders could finalize the deal with New Delhi by the end of January, just days after most EU countries approved the controversial Mercosur trade pact. Merz Champions Free Trade With India Speaking during a trip to India, Merz emphasized the importance of expanding Europe’s trade partnerships beyond the United States and China, which have increasingly pursued nationalist trade policies. “Unfortunately we are seeing a renaissance of protectionism. It is directed…

West Ham United edged past Queens Park Rangers after extra time to reach the FA Cup fourth round, securing a rare moment of relief for manager Nuno Espírito Santo. The Hammers needed a late header from Taty Castellanos to seal a 2-1 win, ending a 64-day wait for victory despite being pushed hard by Championship opposition. The match underlined West Ham’s ongoing struggles, with QPR forcing extra time and briefly threatening an upset through Richard Kone’s second-half equaliser. Yet there were positives for Nuno, particularly the performances of Castellanos and Crysencio Summerville, who scored once and provided the decisive assist.…

Iran is facing a growing crisis as protests enter their third week, the death toll climbs, and the country remains largely cut off from the internet. At the same time, reports suggest Washington and Tel Aviv have discussed the possibility of US intervention, while Tehran issues sharp warnings of retaliation. Warnings of Retaliation Amid US and Israeli Discussions Iranian officials have made it clear that any American strike would provoke a strong response. Speaking in parliament on Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said US forces and Israel would be considered “legitimate targets” if the United States attacks. Iran…

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has announced new rules requiring most private health insurers to cover cervical cancer screenings. The changes aim to remove financial barriers and make early detection easier for women nationwide. The new regulations apply to most private health plans. They cover traditional screenings and self‑collected HPV tests. Health officials say this is a major step toward preventing cervical cancer and improving women’s health. Cervical cancer is highly preventable if detected early. Experts emphasize that regular screenings can save lives. The new HHS rules make it more accessible for women who may have avoided…

Chelsea began the Liam Rosenior era with a comfortable 5-1 win over Charlton Athletic to reach the FA Cup fourth round. Despite the convincing performance, frustration among Chelsea supporters was again directed at the club’s owners. Rosenior’s rotated side dominated possession and took control late in the first half through a goal from Jorrel Hato. Second-half strikes from Tosin Adarabioyo and Marc Guiu restored calm after Charlton briefly pulled one back. Late goals from Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernández, after a penalty won by teenage substitute Estevão Willian, completed the rout. Rosenior, Chelsea’s fifth head coach since the 2022 takeover…

Governments are facing growing pressure to address the outsized role that extreme wealth plays in climate change. Activists are calling for bans on carbon-heavy luxury items and higher taxes on fossil fuel profits, arguing these steps are essential to meet global climate targets. Oxfam’s latest research reveals the scale of the problem: the richest one per cent of people on Earth had already used up their full annual carbon budget just ten days into 2026. This threshold, known as “Pollutocrat Day,” marks when emissions surpass levels compatible with limiting global warming to 1.5°C. Even more striking, the wealthiest 0.01 per…

Bukayo Saka has agreed a new five-year contract with Arsenal that will make him one of the highest-paid players in the club’s history. The deal, expected to run until 2031, is understood to be worth more than £15m a season, reflecting Saka’s importance to the team. Arsenal’s sporting director Andrea Berta made securing the Hale End graduate a priority after tying down several other young stars. Saka, who joined the club aged seven, had previously said he wanted to keep winning with Arsenal but was in no rush over contract talks. Manager Mikel Arteta has repeatedly highlighted Saka’s happiness and…

The United States has seized another oil tanker as it ramps up enforcement of sanctions on Venezuela, marking the fifth vessel intercepted in recent weeks amid heightened naval activity in the Caribbean. Ghost Fleet Targeted US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the tanker, Olina, belonged to a “ghost” fleet — ships accused of hiding their identities while carrying embargoed oil. The vessel attempted to leave Venezuela undetected but was intercepted by US forces. Noem emphasized that such ships “will not outrun justice,” with the Coast Guard carrying out the seizure. Joint Military Operation US Southern Command reported that the…

Widespread demonstrations erupted across Tehran and other Iranian cities on Thursday night, following an appeal from exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi. The protests, initially sparked by economic hardships, have taken on a political dimension, with thousands calling for change and defying government restrictions. Streets Fill with Chants Despite Communication Blackout At 8 p.m. local time, neighborhoods across Tehran came alive with the sound of chants and shouts. Witnesses reported cries of “Death to the dictator!” and “Death to the Islamic Republic!” alongside calls supporting the former monarchy, with slogans like “This is the last battle! Pahlavi will return!” Almost immediately,…