February 17, 2026 – Global Headlines

Story gist: CNN published Chinese zodiac predictions for 2026, the Year of the Fire Horse. BBC provided live coverage of Lunar New Year 2026.

Bias summary: Left-leaning CNN emphasizes zodiac predictions and fortunes for the Year of the Fire Horse, using an engaging, speculative tone focused on ‘what’s in store.’ Center BBC offers straightforward live updates on the event without predictions. Right-leaning outlets provide no coverage, omitting any perspective on the cultural observance.

Story gist: U.S. Senator Marco Rubio promoted Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s bid for re-election in Hungary’s elections. The action occurred ahead of the vote.

Bias summary: Left-leaning Washington Post frames Rubio ‘lending a hand’ to Orbán amid a ‘tough election,’ emphasizing vulnerability and implying controversy. Center AP News uses neutral phrasing, ‘plugs Orbán’s bid for another term.’ Right-leaning outlets absent, missing potential supportive coverage of Rubio-Orbán alignment or criticism of election challenges.

Story gist: Israel’s cabinet approved West Bank land registration. Palestinians condemned it as de-facto annexation.

Bias summary: Left-leaning NPR frames Israel’s West Bank land registration as ‘contentious,’ emphasizing inherent controversy and dispute. Center Reuters neutrally reports cabinet approval alongside Palestinian condemnation of ‘de-facto annexation.’ Right-leaning outlets absent, omitting potential emphasis on Israeli security needs, legal claims, or settlement advancements.

Story gist: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated she is doubling down on law and order policies. She seeks to persuade U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and European leaders to form alliances.

Bias summary: Left-leaning outlets absent, omitting potential criticism of Meloni’s right-wing domestic agenda. Center (Politico.eu) neutrally emphasizes her ‘doubling down on law and order,’ focusing on policy firmness without judgment. Right (WSJ) frames positively as Meloni’s ‘mission’ to befriend Trump and Europe, highlighting diplomatic savvy and downplaying hardline aspects.

Story gist: Rio de Janeiro hosts Brazil Carnival street parties. Veterans provide do’s and don’ts in a survival guide for participants.

Bias summary: Left-leaning USA Today portrays Carnival as Brazil’s biggest celebration transforming Rio into a vibrant sea of color, emphasizing scale and joy. Center AP News delivers neutral, practical do’s and don’ts from veterans to beginners. Right-leaning New York Post sensationalizes future 2026 samba queens in jaw-dropping costumes with photos, focusing on visual spectacle. Center omits celebratory hype.