Saudi Arabia Executes Prominent Shiite Cleric, 46 Others
After executing more people in 2015 than in the past two decades, Saudi Arabia begins 2016 by executing 47 people.

Iran singer who faces prison wins Grammy for protest anthem
Shervin Hajipour appeared stunned after hearing Jill Biden announce he'd won the Grammy's new song for social change special merit award for "Baraye."
By Chris Pizzello / AP
Deadly earthquake exacerbates suffering of displaced Syrians
The deadly 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey near the Syrian border has hit hard in areas that house millions of war-displaced Syrians.
By Depo Photos / AP
Israel's new government sparks concern for the future of its democracy
Far-right changes to Israel's government have some experts and citizens concerned for the future rule of law in the country.
By Reuters / APTop Stories

Beloved Hollywood mountain lion P-22 draws thousands of mourners
Wildlife officials had to capture and ultimately euthanize the beloved animal after encounters with humans.
By Jae C. Hong / AP
Do State of the Union speeches still matter?
Does this annual tradition of our president addressing Congress still have the same impact that it used to?
By Mariam Zuhaib / AP
From Great Resignation to Great Rethink, the workforce is changing
Many people left their jobs amid the pandemic, but experts found workers are actually switching jobs to find more flexible environments.
By Scripps News