At least 29 protesters have been killed as major anti-government demonstrations spread across Iran for a 10th day, a U.S.-based rights group says. The Iranian government is trying to quell the unrest, and reacted angrily to President Trump’s veiled threat of a U.S. armed intervention.
The Human Rights Activists News Agency, which gave the death toll based on its network of contacts in the country, said in its daily report on Monday that more than 1,200 people had been detained by Iranian security forces since the protests started more than a week ago. HRANA shared video on Tuesday that it said showed clashes between protesters and security forces at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar — a center of commerce in the capital where shop owners have long backed the regime.
The protests began more than a week ago in Tehran as business owners took to the streets to vent their frustration over soaring inflation in the nation, whose economy has been crippled by U.S. and international sanctions for years. But the anger spread quickly to more than 250 locations in at least 27 of Iran’s 31 provinces, according to the Washington-based HRANA, with social media videos showing violent clashes between protesters chanting anti-government slogans and security forces every night since.
Video posted online on Jan. 6, 2026 and location verified by the Reuters news agency shows Iranian security forces operating amid tear gas as they confront protesters in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar market.
Reuters
People who spoke with CBS News from inside the country on Tuesday said the latest demonstrations in the capital were relatively small, corroborating other reports that efforts by the Iranian authorities to placate the protesters have likely had some effect in reducing numbers in recent days.
President Trump said Friday — a day before American forces attacked Venezuela and captured the country’s longtime leader Nicolas Maduro — that the U.S. was “locked and loaded and ready,” warning that if Iran “violently kills protesters, which is their custom, the United States of America will come to their rescue.”
Mr. Trump hasn’t offered any further detail on his threat, but he’s been ratcheting up pressure on Tehran since taking office for his second term, including with unprecedented U.S. strikes on the country’s nuclear facilities in June as Israel and Iran fought a 12-day war.
“I think many Iranian people will be inspired by that,” Maziar Bahari, editor of the independent Iranian news website IranWire, told CBS News on Saturday, referring to Mr. Trump’s remarks. “The message has made the Iranian regime more careful about its actions and using violence against people.”
Iranian officials have not confirmed the deaths of any protesters, and while acknowledging the demonstrations and economic pain felt in the country, they make little mention of the violence seen on the streets and accuse the U.S. and Israel of fomenting the unrest. The Islamic Republic’s semiofficial Fars news agency claimed Monday that about 250 police officers and 45 members of the feared Basij security force had been injured amid the unrest.
Protesters march in downtown Tehran, Iran, Dec. 29, 2025.
Fars News Agency via AP
The U.S. State Department has issued statements condemning specific incidents in Iran since Mr. Trump leveled his ambiguous threat, but the chances of an American intervention remained unclear on Tuesday.
As has long been the case with Iran, the uncertainty left space for rumors to swirl. There were unconfirmed reports that the country’s 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was considering escaping into exile in Russia if the protests escalated out of control.
Other reports have speculated that the government could even launch a new attack on Israel — something the regime has said it is ready for since the 12-day war in June — in a bid to divert attention away from domestic problems and refocus the population’s anger at Iran’s biggest foreign adversary, which would likely respond quickly and harshly.
But Iran’s intelligence services have a history of leaking false information to the media, especially foreign outlets, to create an exaggerated narrative that the country’s leaders can then deny and portray as deliberate Western disinformation.
In the meantime, the government has tried to quash the unrest on the streets not only with security forces, but with a series of measures aimed at showing sympathy with the protesters, including freezing some commodity prices and taxes on businesses, and even a dramatic move Monday to announce cash subsidies for essential goods for all households.
The government does appear to have been bracing for unrest in the wake of the summer war with Israel, which constrained its sanctions-squeezed budgets even further and forced slashes to subsidies and social services.
So far, however, even if the protests haven’t continued escalating — which is difficult to gauge as Iran’s government tightly controls the flow of information inside the country — the efforts to quell the unrest haven’t fully succeeded.
In the meantime, the demonstrations continue, as people wait for any further signals from Mr. Trump that he might be willing to try to take advantage of a vulnerable moment for the Islamic Republic’s rulers.
Overall vehicle sales slipped 0.2% in Europe in December, but rose 0.8% in the U.S. and 1.2% in China, with the XC60 SUV its top-selling model in the year.
Jordan Reid is an NFL draft analyst for ESPN, providing in-depth scouting on the nation’s top pro prospects. Jordan joined ESPN in 2021 and also contributes to SportsCenter and ESPN Radio. He played quarterback at North Carolina Central University and then went on to coach there from 2014-18.
Keep in mind that we have three-plus months until the draft starts April 23 in Pittsburgh. There are still three games left in the 2025 college football season, too. Some players could decide to head back to school before declaration day later this month, while others could surprisingly leave early to join the class. We also have predraft events such as all-star games and the combine, which will shake up boards. And let’s not forget that every NFL team’s needs will continue to evolve as they take inventory of their rosters this offseason and sign players in free agency to fill voids. That all said, this is where things stand right now.
The Raiders haven’t drafted a QB in the first round since 2007 (JaMarcus Russell). They’re in desperate need of a franchise quarterback after the Geno Smithtrade didn’t work out, and Mendoza provides a long-term solution for a franchise that has been looking for a QB since Derek Carr was released following the 2022 season. Mendoza’s poise, toughness and accuracy stood out in his lone season with the Hoosiers, as he won the Heisman Trophy while leading them to a 14-0 record. With tight end Brock Bowers and running back Ashton Jeanty, the Raiders have building blocks on offense that would help Mendoza thrive right away.
With five first-rounders over the next two drafts, the Jets have a prime opportunity to replenish a roster that lacks talent everywhere. The Justin Fieldsexperiment didn’t go as planned, so the Jets could part ways with him this offseason. Moore could give them a smooth, poised operator who has the potential to be a high-end starter. He has yet to make his intentions known about declaring for the draft, but if Moore does come out, he would be drafted very high — and coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey could get their franchise signal-caller.
With Kyler Murraypossibly leaving this offseason, the Cardinals have a major question mark at quarterback. But with Mendoza and Moore coming off the board, Arizona would pivot to the offensive line. Mauigoa is one of the cleanest evaluations of this draft class as a rock-solid, consistent lineman who stands 6-foot-6, 315 pounds. He’s the model of consistency and would fit as a plug-and-play option on an offensive line that has major right tackle questions. Arizona’s current right tackle, Kelvin Beachum, is 36 and set to be a free agent. The Cardinals’ offensive tackles finished last in run block win rate (69.9%), and Arizona gave up the third-most sacks in the league (59).
The Titans are lacking talent throughout their roster and spent the No. 1 pick on QB Cam Ward last year, so they’re in position to take the best player available. Reese is arguably the top player in the draft. He’s explosive and plays with plenty of physicality. He flipped back and forth between linebacker and edge rusher this season, but I prefer Reese in an edge rusher role in the NFL. He would give Tennessee a talent boost up front to join four-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons. Reese played only 97 snaps at the edge, but his 18.5% pressure rate at that position ranked seventh in the FBS.
It should be the Giants’ main objective to get playmakers around quarterback Jaxson Dart. With Malik Nabers recovering from a torn ACL and Wan’Dale Robinson set to become a free agent after a breakout 1,014-yard season, receiver is a major need for New York. Tate is a polished wideout capable of executing every branch on the route tree. He has sure hands, can separate against all types of coverage and makes plays downfield, as evidenced by his 17.1 yards per catch this season (32nd in the FBS). Tate would provide Dart with a true deep threat who can also work the intermediate levels of the field.
Unless they want to package their two first-round picks to move up, the Browns won’t be able to pick a quarterback. But they do need pass catchers to join breakout rookie tight end Harold Fannin Jr. and veteran wide receiver Jerry Jeudy. Tyson is a creative route runner who can make catches outside the strike zone with his strong hands at the catch point. He’s also capable of making big plays after the catch. Durability will be the main thing to watch with Tyson during the predraft process, as he has been derailed by nagging injuries in each of the past two seasons, missing three games in 2025 because of a hamstring injury.
Washington has only two edge players (Dorance Armstrong and Javontae Jean-Baptiste) signed through next season, and both are coming off season-ending injuries. The Commanders need youthful pass rushers, and Bailey was the most productive in the country, leading the FBS with 14.5 sacks this season. He also had 23 tackles for loss, and his 20.1% pressure rate was the highest of all FBS defenders. Bailey’s excellent first-step quickness helps him race past blockers with ease, and he is a rugged defender with a diverse set of pass-rush moves and powerful hands. Bailey’s performance against Oregon in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals was one of the best I saw from any defender this season.
The Saints seem to have hit with second-round quarterback Tyler Shough, and it’s time to get some backfield help. Veteran running back Alvin Kamara will turn 31 before next season and be on the last year of his contract in 2026, so New Orleans could add his heir apparent and the best offensive playmaker in the draft in Love. He is explosive and can also be used by coach Kellen Moore in the passing game. The Saints had the lowest percentage of 10-plus-yard runs (7.8%). Love could fix that, after posting 39 rushes of 10-plus yards this season, ranking fourth in the FBS.
Bain’s game is all about power; he’s a heavy-handed defender who regularly overwhelms blockers at the point of attack. Capable of playing 0- to 9-technique, Bain can play all over the defensive line and has flashed in big moments during Miami’s current playoff run. At 6-foot-3, 275 pounds, Bain’s measurables might not fit every team’s wish list but would work well in Kansas City, where defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has preferred dense and powerful pass rushers. Bain had 8.5 sacks this season and would give a boost to a Chiefs pass rush that finished with only 35 sacks in 2025, tied for 22nd in the NFL.
A safety hasn’t been picked in the top 10 since the Jets took Jamal Adams with the No. 6 pick in 2017, but Downs is one of the three best players in this year’s class. His versatility, sure tackling and instincts would eliminate a lot of the problems that Cincinnati had on the back end this season, as coordinator Al Golden’s defense gave up a league-high 6.2 yards per play. By contrast, Downs allowed only 3.6 yards per passing attempt into his coverage this season (11th lowest in the FBS). With Geno Stone set to be an unrestricted free agent, Downs could slot into the Bengals’ secondary nicely.
Patrick Paul, Miami’s second-round pick in 2024, has developed into a foundation player at left tackle. But with 2020 first-round pick Austin Jackson struggling to stay healthy and heading to free agency after next season, the Dolphins need help at the other tackle spot. Fano’s light feet and movement skills fit ideally into Mike McDaniel’s fast-paced scheme. At 6-foot-6, 302 pounds, Fano needs to add bulk to his frame, but his 1.1% pressure rate tied with Mauigoa for the second-lowest allowed by an offensive tackle in the FBS this season.
The Cowboys desperately need defensive help, and Styles would give them a building block at the spine of their defense, which allowed a league-high 30.1 points per game in 2025. He would be a massive upgrade to Kenneth Murray Jr., who struggled in every way imaginable this season after being acquired from the Titans. Styles plays an attacking style that uses his excellent instincts, range and awareness. He’s a wrap-up-and-finish run defender and an able blitzer (six sacks in 2024) who can create negative plays in the backfield.
Davante Adams will turn 34 in December and is set to be a free agent following the 2026 season, so the Rams need to draft a receiver who’s ready to play immediately to maximize the championship window of quarterback Matthew Stafford, who turns 38 in February. Lemon could jump right in to join Adams and Puka Nacua. He has a high-level understanding of how to win against all types of coverage and makes contested catches. He had only one drop on 110 targets (79 catches), and his 21 forced missed tackles ranked 13th among FBS receivers. Lemon is labeled as a slot receiver but can play throughout the formation.
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0:12
Jayden Maiava throws 12-yard touchdown pass to Makai Lemon
Jayden Maiava throws 12-yard touchdown pass to Makai Lemon
Woods entered the season as one of the top prospects in the 2026 class but didn’t have the season that many expected, finishing with only two sacks after registering three as a sophomore in 2024. But he is an explosive pocket collapser who has the versatility to rush from multiple spots. Woods has to be more consistent, but he can penetrate the backfield and would boost a Ravens defensive front that was forced to rely on 36-year-old John Jenkins after Nnamdi Madubuike was sidelined early in the season by a neck injury.
The Bucs need reinforcements in their front seven to help Vita Vea and fifth-round revelation Elijah Roberts, and Faulk is intriguing with his lengthy 6-5, 285-pound frame. He can instantly help as a run defender; Faulk knows how to deploy his tools at the point of attack while stacking and shedding blockers with ease. His frame and playing style compares favorably to Mykel Williams and Greg Rousseau, but Faulk needs to expand his pass-rush repertoire. He also had only two sacks this season after posting seven in 2024, but scouts are still enamored with his upside.
After dealing defensive tackle Quinnen Williams at the trade deadline, the Jets need to rebuild their defense from the inside out. McDonald would be a great start. He’s a forceful run defender who constantly creates chaos for opposing offenses. His 7.8% run stop percentage ranked second among FBS defensive linemen this season. McDonald can also be disruptive as a pass rusher (three sacks this season) and can push the interior of the pocket.
It could be time for the Lions to develop a succession plan for left tackle Taylor Decker, who will be 32 before next season and struggled with injuries in 2025. Detroit needs young talent on the offensive line, and Lomu is a 6-foot-6, 304-pound redshirt sophomore who is loaded with potential. He improved his consistency in pass protection this season, giving up only six pressures and zero sacks, but Lomu still needs to add strength to his frame to become a better run blocker.
Minnesota lacks young, high-upside players in the secondary, which drafting Delane would solve. He is technically sound with a savvy skill set, which would fit nicely into Brian Flores’ diverse scheme. Delane has the speed to turn and run with targets in man coverage, but his eyes in zone coverage are among the best of any corner in this year’s class. His 27.8% completion percentage allowed was the third-lowest rate in the FBS, and he had 11 pass breakups and two interceptions this season.
Reminder: Pick Nos. 19-32 are based on ESPN’s Football Power Index projections for the playoffs, and the order won’t be final until after Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8.
The Panthers have decisions to make about quarterback Bryce Young, as he is eligible for a contract extension this offseason. Carolina also must decide whether to pick up his fifth-year option for 2027. The Panthers hit on first-round receiver Tetairoa McMillan in the 2025 draft and drafting Sadiq would give Young another playmaker while allowing Carolina to further evaluate the quarterback’s long-term fit with the franchise. Sadiq is the clear No. 1 tight end in the class; he creates mismatches as a receiver (his eight touchdown receptions top all FBS tight ends) and is a more-than-willing blocker in the run game.
The Bears’ pass rush was inconsistent this season, as they were 31st in pass rush win rate (28.8%) and tied for 22nd in sacks (35 sacks). Howell would give Chicago a tenacious, energetic edge rusher, as his 11.5 sacks this season were the fourth most in the FBS. Howell’s size (6-foot-2, 248 pounds) and arm length might scare off some teams, but the Bears need a disruptive pass rusher to complement veteran Montez Sweat. Howell would be just that.
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Analyzing the tape on Cashius Howell’s three sacks in a row
SEC Network analysts Gene Chizik and Matt Stinchcomb break down Howell’s elite pass rushing as he gets to the quarterback on back-to-back-to-back plays.
Pittsburgh has its No. 1 receiver in DK Metcalf, but the depth chart is pretty rough after that, with Calvin Austin III and Marquez Valdes-Scantling set to become free agents and veteran Adam Thielen potentially retiring. Concepcion would have the opportunity to make an instant impact as a No. 2 option for the Steelers, especially because he can play in the slot and outside. He is a gearshift route runner who can accelerate and decelerate to create separation in route stems. But Concepcion needs to be more consistent with his hands, as he dropped seven passes this season.
I’ve talked with multiple scouts about Proctor in recent weeks, and opinions on the 6-foot-7, 366-pound lineman remain all over the place. Many believe he’ll be picked in the top 25 because of his size and flashes of improved play, and several referred to Proctor’s upside as a guard. That’s where he would play with the Chargers, who should have bookend tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Althealthy and ready to go next season. Proctor fits the Chargers’ mentality as a tough, physical blocker who could help the interior protection of quarterback Justin Herbert.
If there’s a receiver in this draft who would excel in Kyle Shanahan’s scheme, it’s Boston, whose 11 receiving touchdowns were the fourth most among all wide receivers in the FBS. He’s a strong-handed perimeter target who wins a high percentage of contested catches and is also a willing blocker in the run game. With Jauan Jennings scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent, Boston would fill the void as a bigger-body receiver who’s unafraid to do the dirty work as a run blocker.
The Bills have a huge need at receiver, but there isn’t an available player at that position who makes sense here. So we’ll pivot to linebacker, where Matt Milano and Shaq Thompson are older (both will turn 32 this offseason) and set to become free agents. Allen is a sudden second-level defender who steps downhill with a lot of closing speed. He’s a consistent run defender who thrives on contact. He needs to improve his eyes and awareness in coverage, but Allen has gotten better in those areas this season.
McCoy did not play at all this season after suffering an ACL tear last January. That makes him a tough evaluation, as scouts have varying opinions on when he should come off the board, but one could argue that he had top-10 potential entering the season. While he won’t likely be that, the Cowboys need reinforcements at cornerback, especially after releasing former Pro Bowler Trevon Diggs. McCoy would be a worthy pick at this spot even with the knee injury questions, and the Cowboys have taken players in similar situations in the past (such as cornerback Shavon Revel Jr. last year).
Quinyon Mitchell is a foundational player at one outside corner spot, but the Eagles have a void at No. 2 corner. Adoree’ Jackson and Kelee Ringo have been inconsistent, while Cooper DeJean is best at nickel. Cisse is a long, active corner at 6-foot, 190 pounds. His dependability in press coverage and awareness in zone would allow him to excel in coordinator Vic Fangio’s coverage scheme. Cisse is a name to watch in the predraft process, as he could be a riser during the offseason circuit.
Houston has three defensive tackles on injured reserve and could use reinforcements there to play off their elite edge rushing duo of Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter. Washington has high upside and continues to improve in his first year as a starter. He is an upfield penetrator who is capable of playing multiple interior spots but projects best as a 3-technique at the next level. His violent hands create quick wins against interior blockers, and the Texans would be adding an explosive defensive lineman to an already-stout defense.
The Browns are in need of an offensive line overhaul, as Cleveland might need at least three new starters. One who could be departing is former All-Pro guard Joel Bitonio, who is 34 years old and set to be a free agent. Ioane could be his successor as one of the most consistent blockers in this year’s class. He plays with a rock-solid base, and his hand power gives him knock-back strength as a pass protector. He didn’t allow a sack and gave up only two pressures this season. Ioane is also a physical run blocker, and he has the potential to be an immediate starter.
The Patriots’ massive turnaround from 4-13 in 2024 to 14-3 this season has been based in large part on coach Mike Vrabel’s development of the young core. Uiagalelei can add to that core and is ready to play right away. He plays with all-out effort and is capable of fitting into multiple schemes at 6-foot-5, 272 pounds. Uiagalelei is already an asset in run defense but must continue to improve his pass-rush moves to help the Patriots on the edge, especially because K’Lavon Chaisson is set to become a free agent.
Terrell is the younger brother of Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell Jr. and has a feistiness and competitiveness that belies his 5-foot-11, 180-pound size. He is ultra-competitive and has forced eight fumbles in his career, the most of any Clemson defensive back ever. The Rams haven’t used a Day 1 or 2 pick on a cornerback since Sean McVay became coach in 2017, so Terrell would add top-level talent to a thin Rams cornerback room that might see veterans Ahkello Witherspoon and Roger McCreary become unrestricted free agents.
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Clemson’s Avieon Terrell forces a fumble on Bauer Sharp
Avieon Terrell hits Bauer Sharp as he’s falling and Ricardo Jones picks it up for Clemson.
Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad will be free agents after the season, which makes linebacker a priority for the Broncos. At 6-foot-4, 240 pounds, Golday aligns at both inside and outside linebacker in Cincinnati’s defense but projects best as a Mike at the next level. His combination of length, block avoidance and versatility make him an option at this pick. Golday is already receiving high Day 2 grades from scouts I’ve talked to and is a prospect who will likely continue to rise throughout the process.
Devon Witherspoon and Nehemiah Pritchett are the only two Seahawks corners under contract next season, with Josh Jobe and Riq Woolen set to be free agents. So Seattle could use cornerback reinforcements. Hood blossomed in his lone season in Tennessee, his third college stop. Showcasing smooth transition skills and the awareness to make plays on the ball, Hood is a highly competitive player who fits into Mike Macdonald’s defense. He didn’t give up a touchdown pass this season, and his 10 pass breakups helped him finish in the top 30 of all FBS defensive backs.
HERE ARE THE SEVEN BIG THINGS THAT WE’RE FOLLOWING FOR YOU TODAY. IT’S LOOKING LIKE IT’S GOING TO BE MILD AND DRY OUT THERE TODAY. HERE’S ERIC WITH YOUR KOAT 7 WEATHER FORECAST. YOU KNOW, WE DO HAVE TO WAIT OUT A FREEZING OR BELOW FREEZING MORNING HERE THOUGH THROUGH CENTRAL NEW MEXICO. WE’RE DOWN AT 26 IN SANTA FE, RIO RANCHO AND THE ALBUQUERQUE SUNPORT SITTING AT 32. OKAY. WE GAINED A DEGREE IN SANTA FE, BUT WE’RE STILL WELL BELOW FREEZING HERE IN THE METRO. WE DO HAVE A MOSTLY SUNNY SKY EXPECTED HERE. IT’S JUST STARTING TO BRIGHTEN UP. WE’LL NEED THOSE COATS ON THE KIDS AS WE SEND THEM BACK TO SCHOOL. MIDDAY NUMBERS NEAR 50 AND IT’S MILD MID 50S THIS AFTERNOON. WE’LL HAVE A PARTLY CLOUDY SKY AND HARDLY ANY WIND. YET ANOTHER REAL FINE WINTER TIME DAY. JUST WAY ABOVE AVERAGE HERE BY EARLY JANUARY STANDARDS. ALL RIGHT. THANK YOU, ERIC, IN THIS MORNING’S TOP STORIES, FORMER VENEZUELAN PRESIDENT NICOLAS MADURO AND HIS WIFE PLEADED NOT GUILTY TO NARCO TERRORISM CHARGES IN AN AMERICAN FEDERAL COURT. YESTERDAY’S HEARING CAME JUST TWO DAYS AFTER THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION CAPTURED MADURO AND HIS WIFE IN A MILITARY OPERATION. U.S. PROSECUTORS SAY MADURO RAN A DRUG FUELED, GOVERNMENT BACKED OPERATION THAT SENT COCAINE INTO THE U.S. THE COUPLE WILL RETURN TO COURT IN MARCH. STUDENTS AT WILSON, KENNEDY, HAYES, WASHINGTON AND CLEVELAND MIDDLE SCHOOLS HERE IN ALBUQUERQUE WILL HAVE TO CARRY CLEAR BACKPACKS. STARTING TODAY. THE DISTRICT SAYS IT’S A WAY TO KEEP THE CAMPUS SAFER. APS WILL PROVIDE CLEAR BACKPACKS TO EACH STUDENTS AT EACH OF THOSE SCHOOLS AT TWO THIS AFTERNOON. THEY WILL ALSO HOLD A NEWS CONFERENCE AT CLEVELAND MIDDLE SCHOOL THIS AFTERNOON TO TELL US MORE ABOUT THIS NEW EFFORT. BERNALILLO COUNTY COURTS ARE ROLLING OUT A NEW PILOT PROGRAM TODAY. IT’S AIMED AT HELPING PEOPLE WITH MENTAL ILLNESS GET TREATMENT INSTEAD OF GETTING PULLED DEEPER INTO THE JUSTICE SYSTEM. THIS IS FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE CHARGED WITH A MISDEMEANOR OR NONVIOLENT FELONY, EXCEPT DWI. IF THEY FINISH THE PROGRAM SUCCESSFULLY, THE COURT WILL DISMISS THEIR CHARGES. OUR STATE IS NOW OFFERING $1 MILLION IN GRANT FUNDING TO STRENGTHEN NEW MEXICO’S PRIMARY CARE WORKFORCE. THIS IS COMING FROM THE HEALTH CARE AUTHORITY AND IS MEANT TO HELP CREATE OR EXPAND RESIDENCY PROGRAMS. PRIMARY CARE PROVIDERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY FOR FUNDING. APPLICATIONS ARE DUE FEBRUARY 27TH. THE HEALTH CARE AUTHORITY WILL DISTRIBUTE THOSE AWARDS IN JULY. THE STATE’S BROADBAND OFFICE IS RELEASING A NEW THREE YEAR PLAN AIMED AT CONNECTING EVERY CORNER OF NEW MEXICO. STATE OFFICIALS SAY ABOUT 90% OF OUR STATE CURRENTLY HAS HIGH SPEED INTERNET. THE GOAL IS TO REACH FULL CONNECTIVITY STATEWIDE. HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS OF DOLLARS WILL BE USED OVER THE COURSE OF THIS PROJECT. TIME TO CHECK IN ON THE ROADS HERE ON THIS TUESDAY MORNING. WE’VE GOT OUR EYES ON THE SIDE STREETS IN THE INTERSTATE LANES, AND RIGHT NOW WE DO NOT HAVE ANY UNUSUAL DELAYS OR REALLY ANY SLOW SPOTS IN INTERSTATE LANES TO TELL YOU ABOUT, YOU KNOW, THINKING THAT A BUSIER MORNING DRIVE IS GOING TO BE INEVITABLE AS THE KIDS HEAD BACK TO SCHOOL, BUT NO SIGNS OF THAT YET. ALL RIGHT. REMEMBER, WHEN WE’RE NOT ON AIR, YOU CAN GET THE MOST RECENT NEWSCAST ANYTIME ON THE FREE, VERY LOCAL APP. OUR NEXT NEWSCAST IS AT 11:00. GOOD MORNING AMERICA STARTS RIGHT NOW. HAVE A GREAT DAY.
Ruidoso fire burglary DNA locates incarcerated suspect
Uziah Alaniz, 25, charged with aggravated burglary, larceny over $20K, and evidence tampering.
When it comes to criminal investigations, the trail can sometimes lead to a jail.That’s what happened when New Mexico State Police investigated a jewelry store heist when they were in Ruidoso helping with public safety during the 2024 wildfires, a NMSP news release said.There was plenty of evidence at Johnson Jewelry on Sudderth Drive — none better than the DNA that went to the FBI laboratory. It matched that of Uziah Alaniz, 25, of Ruidoso Downs, who turned out to be a prisoner at the Northeast New Mexico Correctional Facility in Clayton, on unrelated charges.On Oct. 30, 2025, agents went to the Northeast New Mexico Detention Facility with a warrant to collect DNA from Alaniz, which was sent to the FBI Lab, and on Dec. 29, the lab confirmed that the DNA from Alaniz matched the DNA at the crime scene.Alaniz was served with an arrest warrant, taken into custody, and charged with aggravated burglary (deadly weapon), possession of burglary tools, larceny over $20,000, tampering with evidence and criminal damage to property.
RUIDOSO, N.M. —
When it comes to criminal investigations, the trail can sometimes lead to a jail.
That’s what happened when New Mexico State Police investigated a jewelry store heist when they were in Ruidoso helping with public safety during the 2024 wildfires, a NMSP news release said.
There was plenty of evidence at Johnson Jewelry on Sudderth Drive — none better than the DNA that went to the FBI laboratory. It matched that of Uziah Alaniz, 25, of Ruidoso Downs, who turned out to be a prisoner at the Northeast New Mexico Correctional Facility in Clayton, on unrelated charges.
On Oct. 30, 2025, agents went to the Northeast New Mexico Detention Facility with a warrant to collect DNA from Alaniz, which was sent to the FBI Lab, and on Dec. 29, the lab confirmed that the DNA from Alaniz matched the DNA at the crime scene.
Alaniz was served with an arrest warrant, taken into custody, and charged with aggravated burglary (deadly weapon), possession of burglary tools, larceny over $20,000, tampering with evidence and criminal damage to property.
CAIRO — A council fighting against Yemen’s Houthi rebels said Wednesday it had expelled the leader of a separatist movement and charged him with treason after he reportedly declined to travel to Saudi Arabia for talks.
The statement carried by SABA news agency controlled by anti-Houthi forces is the latest escalation between Saudi-backed forces and the Southern Transitional Council, which had been backed by the United Arab Emirates. It also further complicates the future of Yemen, the Arab world’s poorest country riven by one of the Mideast’s worst conflicts for over a decade.
The STC said leader Aidarous al-Zubaidi remained in Aden. It also accused Saudi Arabia of launched airstrikes in Yemen’s al-Dhale governorate, causing casualties.
“While a senior STC delegation is in Saudi Arabia pursuing negotiations, the President remains in Aden to ensure security and stability,” wrote Amr al-Bidh, an STC official focused on foreign affairs. “He will not abandon his people, and he will engage directly when conditions allow.”
The statement from SABA accused al-Zubaidi of “damaging the republic’s military, political and economic standing,” as well as “forming an armed gang and committing the murder of officers and soldiers of the armed forces.”
The anti-Houthi leadership group is known as the Presidential Leadership Council. That council formed in April 2022 after President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi of Yemen’s internationally recognized government stepped down.
But its members all had competing interests and backers, with their forces never taking the fight to the Houthis even after both the United States and Israel launched massive bombing campaigns targeting the rebels. An uneasy ceasefire between the combatants on the ground in Yemen has held for years.
In late December, tensions began over the STC’s advances in the governorates of Hadramout and Mahra, which were once held by Saudi-backed forces.
An earlier statement Wednesday from Maj. Gen, Turki al-Malki, a spokesperson for a Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, said al-Zubaidi, had been due to take a flight to Saudi Arabia but did not take the flight with other council officials.
“The legitimate government and the coalition received intelligence indicating that al-Zubaidi had moved a large force —including armored vehicles, combat vehicles, heavy and light weapons, and ammunition,” al-Malki said. Al-Zubaidi “fled to an unknown location.”
Saudi Arabia in recent weeks has bombed STC positions and struck what is said was a shipment of Emirati weapons. After Saudi pressure and an ultimatum from anti-Houthi forces to withdraw from Yemen, the UAE said Saturday it had withdrawn its forces.
Ostensibly, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have shared the coalition’s professed goal of fighting against the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, who have held Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, since 2014.
Yemen, on the southern edge of the Arabian Peninsula off East Africa, borders the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The war there has killed more than 150,000 people, including fighters and civilians, and created one of the world’s worst humanitarian disasters.
The Houthis, meanwhile, have launched attacks on hundreds of ships in the Red Sea corridor over the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip, disrupting regional shipping. The U.S., which earlier praised Saudi-Emirati efforts to end the crisis over the separatists, has launched airstrikes against the rebels under Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump.
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Associated Press writer Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed to this report.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — As Isaac McKneeley’s contested 3-pointer ricocheted off the rim right to Duke’sDame Sarr with just under 14 minutes left in the Blue Devils’ 84-73 win vs. Louisville on Tuesday, Cardinals coach Pat Kelsey turned and slammed both hands on the courtside table behind him.
Kelsey could see a potential marquee victory slipping away from the Cardinals and had some frustration to let out. Duke had outscored Louisville 14-6 in the second half and was methodically taking control in a critical ACC battle the Cardinals once led by 12.
Just 15 seconds later, the defensively resurgent Blue Devils took their first lead en route to a victory that established No. 6 Duke firmly atop the conference pecking order.
The No. 20 Cardinals, who started 7 of 10 from 3-point range to ignite a crowd of 17,656, went cold in the second half. By the two-minute mark, Louisville fans streamed toward the exits, resigned to Duke extending its winning streak in the series to eight.
Star freshman Cameron Boozer turned in another dominant performance with 27 points and eight rebounds to lead the Blue Devils, and coach Jon Scheyer was quick to note that “what he’s doing is unbelievable.”
But as great as Boozer was, and as great as the 43 points from the supporting duo of Isaiah Evans and Caleb Foster were, Tuesday’s result stood out for something else entirely.
Duke’s defense, which was mired in its worst stretch since Scheyer’s playing days, rediscovered its identity.
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Isaac Trotter
“They were as explosive as any offense we’ve played this season,” Scheyer said. “No question about it. The game really came down to, I think our defense in the second half was terrific.”
Duke’s return to the basics
During their 11-0 start, Duke ranked No. 6 in defensive efficiency. But something changed in the second half of an 82-81 loss against Texas Tech on Dec. 20, as the Red Raiders shot a blistering 62.1% while erasing a 17-point deficit.
The shoddy defense continued in uncomfortably close wins over projected ACC bottom feeders Georgia Tech and Florida State over the past week. Those three games marked the first time since February 2009 that Duke allowed three consecutive opponents to shoot 53% or better.
“We’ve gone through it,” Scheyer said, adding that the Blue Devils spent Monday working on “basic defensive drills” for the sake of rebuilding good habits.
“Guarding the ball, moving as the ball moves and being in a stance,” Scheyer explained, rattling off principles that might also be taught at Scheyer’s summer youth camps.
Even after that return to the basics, it was more of the same in the first half at Louisville, as sharpshooter Ryan Conwell drilled his first three 3-pointers. Then, reserve center Aly Khalifa got in on the fun by hitting his first three 3-pointers as the Cardinals opened up a 26-14 lead.
That’s when Boozer put his foot down. Duke’s freshman phenom responded with a quick 3-pointer of his own and scored 10 points over an 8-minute span to help keep the Blue Devils in touch.
“In that first half, he just settled us,” Scheyer said. “If he didn’t do that, it could have gotten out of hand.”
The freshly settled Blue Devils regrouped at halftime and showed why they must be regarded as a Tier 1 threat to win the national championship.
Unsung heroes
Collectively, the trio of Boozer, Evans and Foster keyed Duke to a sterling 70.8% shooting performance in the second half. But offensive brilliance is nothing new for the Blue Devils, nor was Louisville’s defensive susceptibility any grand revelation.
That’s why, in the same breaths that he used to praise his star trio for their production, Scheyer also credited Dame Sarr and Maliq Brown. The duo combined for just six points off the bench, but they played pivotal roles in slowing Louisville’s offensive barrage to a crawl.
A Cardinals team that hit 10 of 21 from 3-point range in the first half hit just 2 of 17 after halftime, and it wasn’t because they suddenly forgot how to shoot. Clean looks that abounded in the first half dissipated for Louisville as Duke extended its defense, became more active and dared the perimeter-oriented Cardinals to try and score inside the arc. Sarr and Brown helped spearhead the charge.
“They’re two of the best defenders I’ve ever been around,” Boozer said. “What they do for our team, it might not show up in the box score. But you definitely feel it throughout the game.”
The strong defensive effort came with a caveat, as Louisville star freshman and offensive maestro Mikel Brown Jr. missed his fifth straight game due to a back injury. But given how strong Louisville looked in the first half without Brown, there was plenty to glean from Duke’s second half defensive effort.
Conwell, who got to his spots at will in the first half, finished 0 for 4 from deep in the second half.
“With a guy like him, you want to make him work for it,” Scheyer said. “I think the first two threes he hit were clean looks. So that wasn’t good. That was on me, not our guys. That was on me. But I thought just the fight, the discipline to make him score over the top…I think it was more about the fight and the effort by Dame, by Caleb and by Isaiah in the second half to really guard.”
More tests await in an ACC that has more teeth in 2026 than it did last season, when Duke cruised to a 19-1 mark in league play. Though the Blue Devils passed what may go down as their toughest road assignment of conference play by taking down the Cardinals, they can’t rest on their laurels. The next challenge is Saturday against SMU, which is the league’s highest-rated offensive team not named Duke or Louisville. The Mustangs hung 97 on North Carolina last weekend.
But Duke took a big step back in the right direction against Louisville. Boozer played an unbelievable game. That’s to be expected at this point.
What was less certain, especially after the first half, is whether the defense would return for the first time in weeks. It did, and the Blue Devils demonstrated their championship-level potential in the process.
“We did some things in the second half that I thought was Duke defense,” Scheyer said. “How can we build from that and be true to who we are and what’s made us really good so far?”
Back to back winter storms start moving into New Mexico Wednesday. The second storm Thursday could be more impactful with colder temperatures and lower snow levels. Clouds have been streaming into New Mexico Tuesday as high temperatures stay warmer than normal. Cloud cover will continue to increase as upper level moisture increases ahead of our […]
The country singer teased a busy year ahead on his Instagram Stories, including a pretty strong hint that he might be planning to hit the road in 2026.
The singer shared a graphic decorated with fireworks and the year 2026. “New Year, New Music, New Tour???” Brooks wrote over the image.
Garth Brooks New Music Tease
Garth Brooks, Instagram
Over on his website, Brooks shared a few more details about what he’s planning.
What Did Garth Brooks Say About a 2026 Tour?
On his site, Brooks promises that “it’s all on the table” this year. He also said that releasing new music was a given.
“I’m an artist, I HAVE to make music. And I’m an entertainer, so I HAVE to take the music to the people,” he explained. That makes it seem like the country superstar might be planning a full headlining tour, perhaps to promote the new music he releases in 2026.
That means that, technically, Brooks could be announcing a tour date starting anytime in the late spring or early summer, but he’s probably eyeing a little later in the year.
That’s because Brooks already has two dates on the books for June 16 and 17, both at Summerfest in Milwaukee. He also has a headlining show planned for London’s Hyde Park on June 27, with support performances from Ashley McBryde and Zac Brown Band.
14 Diamond-Certified Country Songs: The Best-Selling Country Hits EVER
While country music has been a staple in American culture for quite some time now, there are only 14 country songs to ever go Diamond by selling more than 10 million copies. They are all contemporary country songs. Let’s take a look at the 14 most successful country songs of all time.
