A major annular solar eclipse, dubbed the “Ring of Fire,” is occurring today, February 17, 2026, visible in parts of the Middle East, Asia, and other regions but not in India or for UAE residents. This first eclipse of the year will last up to 2 minutes and 20 seconds, with the Moon covering 96% of the Sun’s center.[1][7][8]

Key Global Headlines

  • US President Trump on Iran negotiations: Trump stated Iran wants a deal, with US negotiators departing and his indirect involvement; he warned of consequences if no agreement is reached.[2]
  • Rhode Island shooting at youth hockey game: Three killed, including the suspect, in a likely family-related incident at Dennis M. Lynch Arena; three others critically injured.[2][4]
  • Australia rejects Syrian camp repatriation: PM Anthony Albanese confirmed no assistance for Australians in a camp holding IS militant families; 34 recently released were returned due to technical issues.[2]
  • Lebanon-Hezbollah updates: Government approves a four-month (extendable) plan for phase two disarmament north of the Litani River, amid Israeli doubts and ongoing strikes.[2]
  • FIFA President Infantino gets Lebanese passport: Gianni Infantino, married to a Lebanese citizen, received citizenship in Beirut.[2]
  • Israeli Finance Minister Smotrich on IDF service: Smotrich said he would advise his daughter against enlisting, citing rabbinical opposition.[2]

US Domestic Developments

  • Nancy Guthrie disappearance: FBI analyzes DNA on a glove; family cleared as suspects. Trump vowed death penalty if she’s killed. Savannah Guthrie released a plea video.[4]
  • Severe weather: Western US faces rain, snow, winds, mudslide risks (e.g., Pacific Coast Highway closure, I-80 shutdown); East sees icy rescues.[4]

Other Notable Events

  • Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics: Olympic flame lit in Milan, Italy; Team USA secures 18th and 19th medals, including gold for a 41-year-old athlete.[3][4]
  • Astrological notes on eclipse: In Aquarius, it may spur global tech/social shifts, political alliances (especially in Asia with Chinese New Year), per astrologers.[6]

These stories reflect live updates as of early February 17 UTC, primarily from ongoing liveblogs and broadcasts.[2][4]