In a dramatic and unprecedented move just hours before leaving office, President Joe Biden has issued a series of pre-emptive pardons to prominent figures who could face politically motivated charges under the incoming administration of Donald Trump. The pardons include former COVID-19 advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci, retired general Mark Milley, and members of the U.S. House committee that investigated the January 6 Capitol attack.

Biden issued a statement on Monday, emphasizing the need to protect these individuals from potential “politically motivated prosecutions” that could be initiated once Trump assumes office. “These public servants have served our nation with honor and distinction, and they do not deserve to be the targets of unjustified and politically motivated prosecutions,” Biden said, asserting that he could not, in good conscience, remain inactive as these figures faced potential legal battles.

Among the key figures pardoned are Dr. Fauci, who became the face of America’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the Trump administration, Fauci’s clear and science-backed messages often put him at odds with the president and his allies, who criticized his approach. His prominence during the pandemic made him a frequent target for right-wing figures, including Elon Musk, who called for his prosecution.

General Milley, who served as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff under Trump, was also granted a pardon. Milley had drawn Trump’s ire after making critical remarks about the former president and discussing his actions during the January 6 attack. Furthermore, Milley’s secret communications with his Chinese counterpart during the Capitol riot, aimed at reassuring China of the U.S. military’s stability, sparked a storm of controversy, with Trump calling for his execution on social media.

In addition to Fauci and Milley, Biden also pardoned members, staff, and witnesses associated with the House committee investigating the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection. These individuals, including former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, faced significant personal and political threats as they uncovered the extent of Trump’s involvement in the violent attack by his supporters.

Biden’s decision to issue these pardons was framed as a protective measure for public servants who have been subjected to what he described as “baseless and politically motivated investigations” that, according to him, have caused undue harm to these individuals’ personal and professional lives. The pardons, however, were also accompanied by a statement clarifying that they should not be viewed as an admission of any wrongdoing.

Trump, who was set to be inaugurated on the same day, has repeatedly promised “retribution” against his political opponents. He has vowed to use the full extent of his power to prosecute those he sees as enemies, including members of the January 6 committee and figures who opposed his agenda during his presidency.

This move, just hours before the transfer of power, highlights the tension between Biden and Trump as the political landscape prepares for a new chapter. Biden’s actions signal a firm stance against what he perceives as politically motivated legal tactics and retribution, even as Trump begins his second term in office.

Washington is bracing for the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States, scheduled for January 20, 2025, in the Rotunda of the US Capitol. This venue change, prompted by an unusually cold forecast, marks a departure from the traditional platform setup on the Capitol’s West Lawn.

Trump, who has overcome two impeachment trials, a felony conviction, assassination attempts, and an indictment for attempting to overturn the 2020 election results, is making a historic return to the presidency after defeating Kamala Harris in the 2024 election. Alongside him, JD Vance, the Vice President-elect, will be sworn in, setting the stage for a new chapter in American politics.

The inauguration ceremony promises to be a highly orchestrated event, reflecting both tradition and Trump’s unique approach to governance. The President-elect is expected to outline his administration’s priorities in his inaugural address, focusing on stringent immigration control, aggressive executive powers, and policies aimed at redefining America’s role globally.

Trump’s commitment to act swiftly on key issues was evident during his pre-inaugural celebrations, including a campaign-style rally and a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. His supporters are anticipating a series of executive actions on his first day in office, particularly concerning immigration and national security.

Despite the change in venue and the chilly weather, the inauguration is set to feature all the ceremonial pomp. However, the planned parade down Pennsylvania Avenue has been modified, with festivities moving to the Capital One Arena in downtown Washington, D.C.

This inauguration is not just a ceremonial transfer of power but a significant pivot point for U.S. policy and international relations. As Trump prepares to deliver his inaugural address, the nation and the world await the impact of his promised reforms and leadership style.

For global audiences and those in the U.S., the event will be covered extensively by major news networks and streamed online, ensuring that no one misses out on this significant political moment.

A fragile ceasefire has descended upon the war-torn Gaza Strip, marking a tentative pause in the protracted conflict between Israel and Hamas. The truce, brokered by Qatar and effective as of 9:15 GMT (11:15 local time) on January 19, represents a significant, albeit temporary, de-escalation in a conflict that has claimed the lives of thousands and left a trail of devastation in its wake. The agreement’s precarious nature is underscored by the fact that its implementation directly depends on the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

The initial phase of the ceasefire, designed to last for 42 days, is contingent upon Hamas fulfilling its commitment to release a first tranche of 33 Israeli hostages from the approximately 98 still held captive.

To initiate this crucial first step, Hamas publicly released the names of three female hostages: Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, and Doron Steinbrecher. This symbolic gesture served as a crucial catalyst, paving the way for the cessation of hostilities. However, the delay in the ceasefire’s implementation, initially scheduled for 8:30 AM local time, highlighted the deep-seated mistrust and the complexities inherent in negotiating a lasting peace.

The Israeli government, under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, insisted on receiving the complete list of 33 hostages before committing to the ceasefire, emphasizing its unwavering resolve to secure the release of all its citizens.

The exchange of hostages is not a one-sided affair. In return for the release of the Israeli captives, Israel has pledged to release approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners currently incarcerated in Israeli prisons. This reciprocal element underscores the delicate balance involved in brokering a ceasefire and the intricate negotiations required to achieve a mutually acceptable agreement.

The release of these Palestinian prisoners represents a substantial concession on Israel’s part, reflecting the high stakes and the complex political calculations involved in ending the prolonged hostilities.

The ceasefire’s fragility is underscored by the ongoing uncertainty surrounding its longevity and the prospects for a more sustainable peace. The 42-day timeframe represents only the first phase, with discussions planned for a second phase to commence in two weeks.

This limited timeframe highlights the tentative nature of the agreement and leaves open the possibility of renewed conflict should the negotiations for a second phase falter. The limited scope of the truce emphasizes the deep-seated challenges and the long road ahead toward achieving a durable peace in the region.

Even with the ceasefire in effect, the shadow of violence continues to loom large. Despite the official commencement of the truce, reports indicate that Israeli airstrikes persisted until the complete list of hostages was provided, illustrating the tension and the unresolved issues that continue to threaten the fragile agreement. This underscores the deep-seated mistrust between the two sides and the difficulty in transitioning from a state of active conflict to a period of sustained peace.

The conflict, which began with the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis and the capture of hundreds, has unleashed a cascade of violence that has left an indelible mark on the region. The subsequent Israeli offensive has resulted in the deaths of more than 46,000 Palestinians, according to local health officials.

These staggering casualty figures serve as a stark reminder of the devastating human cost of this protracted conflict and the urgent need for a lasting solution. The path to peace remains arduous and fraught with obstacles, but the current ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope, albeit a fragile one, amidst the ruins of war.