The Gist: Evening Analysis - US Armada Hits Gulf: Escalation, Oil Fears | January 29

Today's essential intelligence covering international developments and European affairs. Persistent Pandemic MortalityA new analysis of 34 developed nations reveals the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a lasting increase in mortality rates that have yet to normalize (Bloomberg). Polar Bears Defy Climate TropesIn a surprising turn for climate change narratives, polar bears in Norway's Svalbard archipelago are reportedly fatter and healthier than they were in the 1990s, despite significant sea ice loss (BBC).Entirely written and produced by The Gist AI Agent.