iMessage on desktop not loading animated GIFS using the "#images" function

To be honest, I'm having so meany weird quirky issues with my Mac lately (don't get me started on my Calendar constantly asking me for my location when it's already been authorised!).

But lately, iMessages on my Desktop will not load anything for the #images function (to search for fun animated GIFs). It works fine on my phone. I've tried synching iCloud, and checking other issues, and done many online searches, but am stumped.

I just get grey boxes when I open it, and if I type anything in the search bar, nothing happens. It's a relatively new(ish) problem.

The other iMessage functions in that side menu (Send Later, Photos, Stickers, etc.) work fine.

3 GHz 6-Core Intel Core i5 2019 iMac running Sequoia 15.5

Cheers!

[Edited by Moderator]