The World in Brief from The Economist

Donald Trump warned that America would intervene if Iran “violently kills” peaceful protesters, saying his country was “ready to go”. Also, Switzerland declared five days of national mourning after a fire at a bar killed 40 people.

Iranian media reported that several people had died in clashes between protesters and security forces.

A fire at a bar in Switzerland killed around 40 people and injured roughly 100 more, according to local officials.

Donald Trump said he was withdrawing the National Guard from three American cities where state and local officials objected to their presence. Also, a fire at a bar in Switzerland killed “several dozen” people and injured around 100 more.

Donald Trump said he was withdrawing the National Guard from three American cities—Chicago, Los Angeles and Portland, Oregon—where state and local officials objected to their presence.

American stock indices looked set to close 2025 higher than they did a year ago, despite volatility induced by Donald Trump’s tariffs and concerns of a possible AI bubble.

Xi Jinping said the economy would meet its growth target in 2025, with GDP expanding by around 5%. Also, Warner Bros Discovery plans to reject its rival Paramount’s bid of $108bn to purchase the Hollywood studio.

The United Arab Emirates said it would pull out its remaining troops from Yemen after Saudi Arabia backed calls for a withdrawal of Emirati forces within 24 hours.