(2025-12-20). After the Rape: The challenges of monitoring sexual violence in Gaza. mondoweiss.net 
Palestinian women in Gaza have faced widespread sexual violence during the Israeli genocide. Despite mountains of evidence, human rights groups face difficulties pursuing justice, as women live in fear of social stigma and reprisal from Israel.
(2025-12-20). StopAntisemitism Takes Credit for Getting Hundreds Fired. A Music Teacher Is Suing. theintercept.com 
When Oregon music teacher Susan Lewis logged onto a Zoom meeting with her boss one afternoon in August 2024, she thought she would be preparing for a sixth year teaching at Valley Catholic School. Instead, she lost her job. | Lewis was shocked, she recalled in an interview with The Intercept, as were her colleagues and students. The school did not give any explanation for why they did not renew her contract. Unbeknownst to Lewis, the pro-Israel blacklist organization StopAntisemitism had recently launched an online campaign against her, framing her social media posts about the genocide in Gaza as "using her pl…
(2025-12-20). Bondi Beach Attack Is Weaponized to Suppress Palestine Solidarity in Australia. truthout.org When news broke of the Bondi Beach shooting, those of us in the global Palestine solidarity movement knew immediately what was coming. We've seen this pattern: when liberation movements challenge state power and when genocide is named and resisted, states seize on any incident, any tragedy, to justify criminalizing that resistance. Since October 2023, as Israel has carried out genocide in Gaza… |
(2025-12-20). 'What is the Christian word in the face of genocide?': new Kairos Palestine document calls for repudiation of Zionism. mondoweiss.net 
"What is happening [in Palestine] today is the true face of Zionist ideology . . . turning Palestinian existence into an unbearable hell," declares the recently released Kairos Palestine document, "A Moment of Truth: Faith in a Time of Genocide."
counterpunch.org (2025-12-20). The Classroom as a Battleground: Italy's Students Rise Against Genocide
While the Italian government actively supports the geopolitical machinery enabling the genocide in Gaza, a different kind of politics is being forged in the corridors of the nation's historic licei (high schools).
(2025-12-20). Elbit Factory Shut Down For A Second Time In Two Weeks. popularresistance.org A group of protesters have shut down the entrance to a factory belonging to Elbit Systems. The halt of Israel's weapons supplier is one of the key demands of the anti-genocide activists. Eight prisoners, all being held on remand for allegedly taking action in solidarity with Palestine, have been on open ended hunger strike since the 2 November in British prisons. This is the biggest coordinated prison hunger strike in UK prisons since the 1981 H-block strike in the North of Ireland. Six of the hunger strikers have been hospitalised so far. Despite the enormity of the strike, the media coverage has been minimal, a…
(2025-12-20). Friday 12/19: Protest israeli crimes at their consulate in SF. indybay.org 456 Montgomery St, SF the israeli consulate…
(2025-12-20). Israeli attack on Gaza school kills, injures 10. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — At least six Palestinians were killed and four others wounded after Israeli artillery shelled a school sheltering displaced people in eastern Gaza City on Friday night, Palestinian sources said.
(2025-12-20). UN says famine phase overcome in Gaza Strip. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — No areas in the Gaza Strip are currently classified in famine, according to the latest reports by international bodies.
(2025-12-20). 29-day-old baby died after 'sharp temperature decline' amid Gaza's winter crisis. tehrantimes.com Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said it is seeing a sharp rise in respiratory infections across Gaza, as harsh winter weather exacerbates already dire living conditions and poses a growing danger to young children.
(2025-12-20). Disarmament in Gaza: 'Day after' pressure. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN — Gaza appears to be entering a difficult testing phase, the outcome of which will depend on the Palestinians' ability to forge a unified national position.
(2025-12-20). Support CN's Middle East Coverage. consortiumnews.com Seven-year old Consortium News in 2002 was one of the first outlets to reject the politicized intelligence for the disasters Iraq invasion and has run circles around corporate media on Syria and Gaza. But only with your help. Consortium News…
(2025-12-20). US drafts $112-billion Gaza reconstruction plan. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump's son-in-law, businessman Jared Kushner, have designed a project for rebuilding the Gaza Strip.
(2025-12-20). Israel attack on Gaza school clear ceasefire violation: Hamas. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — The Palestinian Resistance movement Hamas has condemned the Israeli army's attack on a school sheltering displaced people in eastern Gaza City, describing it as a blatant violation of the ceasefire.
middleeasteye.net (2025-12-19). US sanctions two ICC judges for rejecting Israel's appeal against Gaza investigation Two ICC Judges named as the latest ICC officials to be sanctioned for work linked to prosecuting Israeli nationals
thenewsminute.com (2025-12-20). How Venezuela has been preparing for a US invasion for more than two decades
In this episode of The Conversation Weekly podcast, we speak to Pablo Uchoa, a PhD candidate researching Venezuela's military scenario planning, on how Venezuela has long been preparing for this moment.
venezuelanalysis.com (2025-12-20). Solidarity with Venezuela in the Belly of the Beast: A Conversation with Elizabeth Blaney
As US aggression against Venezuela escalates, working-class and immigrant communities inside the United States are increasingly linking war abroad to repression and austerity at home.
baltimoresun.com (2025-12-20). Resist Trump's cruel and illegal actions
But we are living in perilous times as President Donald Trump ignores laws, the Constitution and any sense of morality. In a normal democracy, there would be checks and balances on President Trump's illegal orders. Unfortunately, the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Supreme Court are allowing the president and his minions to declare war on very poor people in Venezuela and to execute them without due process.
thecanary.co (2025-12-20). Over 100,000 children spending Christmas homeless in LondonOn Christmas Day in London, over 100,000 children will wake up homeless in temporary accommodation. Why have we come to normalise homelessness?
In total, 210,000 Londoners live in temporary accommodation, or one in every 50 people in the city.
znetwork.org (2025-12-20). "Terror & Fear": Trump Moves to Denaturalize Citizens, End Birthright Citizenship, Halt Visa LotteryThe Trump administration is ramping up efforts to strip more naturalized immigrants of their U.S. citizenship… The Times reports it would represent a "massive escalation of denaturalization in the modern era."
(2025-12-20). 'Don's Best Friend': How Epstein and Trump Bonded Over the Pursuit of Women. portside.org 'Don's Best Friend': How Epstein and Trump Bonded Over the Pursuit of Women |
(2025-12-20). US Epstein files release highlights Clinton, makes scant reference to Trump. geo.tv 
(2025-12-20). Epstein files exposed: DoJ releases thousands of pages, images as critics question heavy redactions. hindustantimes.com The U.S. Justice Department has released thousands of pages of Jeffrey Epstein-related photos and court records under a congressional mandate, sparking renewed debate over transparency and accountability. The newly posted documents reference high-profile figures, with former President Bill Clinton appearing more prominently while mentions of Donald Trump are limited. Images reportedly include Clinton alongside Ghislaine Maxwell, as well as other well-known celebrities. The White House has framed the release as a transparency measure, while Democrats and advocates criticize ongoing redactions and censorship. Epste…
(2025-12-20). Takeaways from release of Epstein files. geo.tv 
Late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein is seen in this image from the US Justice Department's file of Epstein, released by the House Oversight Committee Democrats Washington, DC, US, on December 18, 2025. — ReutersThe US Department of Justice on Friday…
(2025-12-20). Departamento de Justicia de EEUU comienza publicación de miles de documentos y fotografías de los archivos de Jeffrey Epstein. cubadebate.cu En las próximas publicaciones, existe la posibilidad de que aparezca el nombre de Trump, quien mantuvo una larga amistad con Epstein en los años previos a su primer arresto. Y si no aparece, quienes creen en las teorías conspirativas se preguntarán por qué.
(2025-12-20). Veterans For Peace Condemns Trump's Illegal War On Venezuela. popularresistance.org Veterans For Peace unequivocally rejects the Trump administration's escalating attacks and threats of war against Venezuela. The U.S. seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker and President Trump's unilateral declaration of a naval blockade of Venezuela and closure of its air space constitute a brazen escalation of military aggression and a violation of both the U.S. Constitution and international law. | The U.S. has continually attacked Venezuela since the inception of the Bolivarian Revolution a quarter-century ago. In 2002, a U.S.-backed military coup temporarily ousted then President Hugo Chávez before the Venezuela…
(2025-12-20). US issues sanctions on family members and associates of Venezuela's Maduro. geo.tv 
Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro attends an event in Caracas, Venezuela, May 1, 2023. — ReutersThe United States on Friday imposed sanctions on family members and associates of Nicolas Maduro and his wife, as Washington ratchets up pressure on the Venezuelan…
(2025-12-20). Trump Admits He Wants To Take Venezuela's Oil. popularresistance.org Donald Trump has openly admitted that he wants to take Venezuela's oil. Top US officials have made it clear that this is a key reason for their war on the South American nation. | Trump declared an illegal naval blockade of Venezuela on December 16. The US government aims to prevent Venezuela from selling oil to China, to starve Caracas of export revenue. | The Trump administration is also illegally blocking Venezuela from importing crucial goods, including the light crude and chemicals needed to process and refine its own heavy crude.
(2025-12-20). Joint statement: Stop the US military aggression in the Caribbean! Hands off Venezuela! links.org.au 
We are deeply concerned over the recent military escalation in the Caribbean and the aggression against Venezuela by the imperialist US.
(2025-12-20). Behind Trump's assault on the Caribbean. links.org.au 
Yoletty Bracho and Franck Gaudichaud analyse Trump's imperialist escalation in the Caribbean and its implications for the Venezuelan people.
(2025-12-20). Nobel Foundation sued over Peace Prize to Venezuela's Opposition Leader. ummid.com WikiLeaks Founder Julian Assange has filed a criminal complaint against the Nobel Foundation for awarding the 2025 Peace Prize to Venezuela's Opposition Leader Maria Corina Machado.
(2025-12-20). Cuba denuncia arbitrario nombramiento de Venezuela como estado terrorista por parte de Washington. cubadebate.cu Rodríguez cuestionó la autoridad moral de Estados Unidos para realizar este tipo de acusaciones: " øQué moral tiene el gobierno de EE.UU. para estas designaciones, cuando protege y financia organizaciones terroristas en su territorio, se niega a colaborar con países vecinos como Cuba en materia de terrorismo y habla abiertamente de acciones encubiertas y sabotajes de la CIA contra infraestructuras venezolanas?".
(2025-12-20). FARDC Reinforces South Kivu After AFC/M23 Withdrawal. plusnews.ug 
Following the December 16 announcement by the AFC/M23 rebels to withdraw from Uvira, which they had captured on December 9, the Congolese army coalition is deploying more forces in areas surrounding the town in South Kivu Province in a bid to control it. This authoritative news website understands that the very day AFC/M23 announced its …
(2025-12-20). Tanzania VP Arrives in Uganda as Regional Summit on Eastern DRC Security Kicks Off. plusnews.ug 
The Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Emmanuel Nchimbi, has arrived in Uganda to attend the Ad Hoc Summit on the Security Situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Summit will kick of today Sunday 21 in Kampala, with regional leaders expected to attend. Uganda is hosting the summit …
(2025-12-20). 'Clean up your culture': a TV host's comment makes Indigenous Brazilians speak up. globalvoices.org 
(2025-12-20). Macron Urges Direct European Talks With Putin If US Peace Effort Fails. eurasiareview.com By Aurélie Pugnet | ( If the US-led peace talks break down, "we will have to, in the coming weeks, find ways for Europeans to…
americanimmigrationcouncil.org (2025-12-20). Whistleblower Report Reveals USCIS Is Circumventing Court Order on Immigrants' Access to their Records
A whistleblower report published today in Government Executive shows how U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is circumventing a court order that requires the agency to provide immigrants with their immigration records within the legal timelines.
The revelations state that USCIS has adopted certain practices leading the agency to reject thousands of requests for Alien Files, or A-Files, under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) that would have been processed in the past.
newrepublic.com (2025-12-18). Mike Johnson Sends Entire House Home Ahead of Epstein Files Deadline House Speaker Mike Johnson is conveniently sending Congress home the day before the Justice Department is supposed to release the Epstein files in full.
buzzfeed.com (2025-12-20). Trump Claims Venezuela Stole US Oil, Reactions
Once again, people are shaking their heads in disbelief over something Donald Trump said. This time, it's due to his recent comments on Venezuela.
(2025-12-20). Morocco bests Jordan to lift 2025 FIFA Arab Cup. ummid.com Atlas Lions, Morocco, Thursday defeated Jordan to lift the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup.
(2025-12-20). (Video) What justice on a burning planet? The left and the climate emergency. links.org.au 
Haymarket Books and Verso Books host an urgent conversation about climate catastrophe and the left.
(2025-12-20). CBSE releases new PATTERN for 10th Board Exams 2026. ummid.com The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released a new pattern for the 2026 Class 10 board exams specifically related to Science and Social Sciences subjects.
(2025-12-20). Kyagulanyi Assures Teso of His Commitment to Combat Corruption and Regulate Govt Expenditures. plusnews.ug 
Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi, the National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate, has pledged to fight corruption, curb wasteful government expenditure, and improve salaries for teachers, soldiers, and other public servants across Uganda. Kyagulanyi made the commitment during a series of campaign rallies held in Ngora, Kalaki, Kaberamaido, and Soroti districts, where he addressed hundreds of supporters. …
(2025-12-20). 10 countries award scholarships to Iranian students. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN — Ten countries, namely Hungary, China, Japan, Malaysia, Iraq, Brazil, Serbia, Brunei, Bangladesh, and Russia, offer scholarships to Iranian university students.
(2025-12-20). Trump's new National Security Strategy outlines US imperialism's policy for a multi-polar world. links.org.au 
Michael Prà∂bsting — Trump's new National Security Strategy is not only a crucial document for understanding the current state of US imperialism; it closes a debate that began with the onset of a new historic period in 2008/09.
(2025-12-20). Thursday 1/1: 17th Annual Oscar Grant Vigil. indybay.org Fruitvale BART Station, 3401 E 12th St, Oakland…
(2025-12-20). Dec. 5 – Nelson Mandela anniversary of his passing. indybay.org Photo of Nelson Mandella…
(2025-12-20). Kerala Local Body Election Results 2025: Broader Lessons. ummid.com The results of Kerala's recent local body elections have been swiftly pressed into service by competing political claims – he Congress sees revival, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) declares a breakthrough, and the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) seeks refuge in the familiar explanation of routine anti-incumbency.
(2025-12-20). US hits ISIS in Syria with large retaliatory strikes, officials say. tribune.com.pk 
The US military launched large-scale strikes against dozens of Islamic State targets in Syria on Friday in retaliation for an attack on American personnel, US officials said. | A US-led coalition has been carrying out airstrikes and ground operations in Syria targeting Islamic State suspects in recent months, often with the involvement of Syria's security forces.' | Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the strikes targeted "ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapons sites" and that the operation was "OPERATION HAWKEYE STRIKE." | "This is not the beginning of a war — it is a declaration of vengeance," Hegs…
(2025-12-20). UK, Iran top diplomats discuss bilateral ties, nuclear issue. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper held a telephone conversation on Friday, exchanging views on bilateral relations, consular matters, and the Iranian nuclear issue.
(2025-12-20). PM Modi's Foreign Visits: The Deeper Story. ummid.com PM Modi's travels have become a permanent feature of India's political theatre. Yet, to dismiss them as spectacle alone would be to miss the deeper story unfolding beneath the surface.
(2025-12-20). Imran Khan and wife handed 17-year sentences over 'undervalued gifts'. tehrantimes.com A Pakistani court convicted and sentenced imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife on Saturday to 17 years in prison after finding them guilty of retaining and selling state gifts, AFP reported Saturday, citing officials and Khan's party.
(2025-12-20). Russian Citizen Charged After Allegedly Filming Israeli Ports For Iran. eurasiareview.com By Osama Ali | ( Israel's public broadcaster reported that the suspect, a 30-year-old named Vitaly Zvyagintsev, was taken into custody in early December. This followed an investigation that revealed his communications with an I…
(2025-12-20). Advocates Rally at Governor's Office to Pardon Activist Jailed for Rescuing 4 Chickens. indybay.org Zoe Rosenberg, 23, is jailed in Sonoma County for rescuing suffering chickens from a Perdue slaughterhouse…
(2025-12-20). EC Urged to Provide Clear Electoral Guidance Backed by Law. plusnews.ug 
The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda has urged the Electoral Commission to assert control over the electoral process and provide clear public guidance grounded in the law. Speaking to journalists while delivering the council's end-of-year message, the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Steven Samuel Kazimba Mugalu—who also serves as chairperson of the Inter-Religious Council—said …
(2025-12-20). Jamiat hails passing of Karnataka Hate Speech Bill. ummid.com Jamiat Ulema i Hind, one of the largest representative bodies of Indian Muslims, has hailed the passing of Karnataka Hate Speech Bill.
(2025-12-20). EU's new level of desperation gives Zelensky breathing space. strategic-culture.su The real question for the EU and NATO is how will they cope with the opprobrium which follows? | Join us on , , and . | Contact us: | It…
(2025-12-20). Iran's Armed Forces rapidly addressing shortcomings. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — Iran's Armed Forces are moving swiftly to address operational and technological shortcomings by drawing lessons from past operations, Iran's deputy army chief for executive affairs said.
(2025-12-20). "The Hungry Tide" at Iranian bookstores. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN- A Persian translation of Indian writer Amitav Ghosh's novel "The Hungry Tide" has recently been published by Amut Publications in Tehran.
(2025-12-20). Front pages of Iran's English dailies on December 20. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — Here are the front pages of Iran's English language dailies on Saturday, December 20.
(2025-12-20). Brazil, Guyana, And Argentina Support Forecast Crude Oil Growth In 2026 Analysis. eurasiareview.com We forecast that global crude oil production will increase by 0.8 million barrels per day (b/d) in 2026, with supply from Brazil, Guyana, and Argentina accounting for 0.4 million b/d of the expected global growth forecast in our December In 2024, non-OPEC+ production increased by 1.1…
(2025-12-20). Iran executes architecture student accused of spying for Israel's Mossad. tribune.com.pk 
Iran executed a man on Saturday on charges of spying for Israel's intelligence agency, Mossad. This brings the number of convicts Iran has executed on espionage charges since June this year to 10. | The executed man has been identified as Aghil Keshavarz, a 27-year-old architecture student. Keshavarz was arrested by soldiers earlier this year in the northwestern city of Urmia, reportedly while taking photographs of a military headquarters. | According to investigative authorities, the accused confessed to taking these photographs for Israel, for which he had received money from Mossad. Iran's Supreme Court was…
(2025-12-20). Operational Challenges Bring Riyadh Airport To A Near Standstill. eurasiareview.com Thousands of passengers travelling to and from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh were left stranded as major airlines struggled to offer alternative flights following a slew of cancellations and delays. | Saudia and flyadeal were among the aviation firms who faced difficulties, with the two airlines putting out statements blaming temporary operational challenges for the issues. | A statement from the airport on its official X account urged travelers to contact airlines directly before heading to the aviation hub to verify the updated status and timing of their flights. | The statement said: "King Kha…
(2025-12-20). 'Resistance, not reconciliation': Politicos at National Conference urge PTI to lead struggle. tribune.com.pk 
(2025-12-20). New House Committee Report Highlights Increasing Terrorism Threat In US. eurasiareview.com By Bethany Blankley | ( It did so after holding a hearing on Tuesday during which Director of the National Counterterrorism Center Joe Kent testified that the NCTC had identified at least 18,000 known or suspected terrorists who were released into the U.S. during…
(2025-12-20). Iran-China non-oil trade exceeds $20b in 8 months. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN – The value of non-oil trade between Iran and China stood at $20.15 billion during the first eight months of the current Iranian calendar year (March 21-November 21), the Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration (IRICA) reported.
(2025-12-20). Audit flags financial irregularities worth billions in southern Punjab. tribune.com.pk 
Financial irregularities worth billions have been exposed in southern Punjab's local government institutions, according to the Auditor General of Pakistan's audit report for 2022-23, which was made public on Saturday. | The audit, covering 128 local government institutions across the region, identified widespread issues including missing financial records, procedural violations and pension-related irregularities. | The most significant finding related to records worth Rs12.87 billion that were not produced for audit in 53 cases. Procedural irregularities amounting to Rs9.14 billion were identified in 368 cases…
(2025-12-20). Saturday 12/20: San Jose / Make Billionaires PAY! indybay.org Winchester Shopping Center Sign | 3137 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA 95117…
(2025-12-20). Seven elephants killed in India train accident. tribune.com.pk 
(2025-12-20). ICE Wants to Reopen Notorious California Prison. Locals Are Fighting Back. truthout.org On December 16, 2025, the Dublin City Council in California unanimously passed a resolution formally opposing reopening or reusing the notorious FCI Dublin prison for detention of any kind, including as an immigration jail. The resolution also urged the relevant federal agencies to "engage in open and transparent communication with the City regarding any decisions affecting the site. |
(2025-12-20). Grossi urges inspection of Iran's attacked nuclear sites. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, has called for inspections of Iran's nuclear sites damaged in June attacks to verify their safety and accessibility.
(2025-12-20). Agreement Secures Renewable Energy, Recycled Water for Pittsburg Data Center. indybay.org PITTSBURG, Calif., December 16, 2025 — The Center for Biological Diversity has reached an agreement with the city of Pittsburg and developers to include rooftop solar, electric vehicle infrastructure and a host of other environmental protection measures for a data center project.
(2025-12-20). TN SIR: 97.28 names removed, Chennai reports biggest deletion. ummid.com The Tamil Nadu State Election Commission Friday December 19, 2025 released the draft voters list after the completion of the Enumeration Phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
(2025-12-20). PHC rules protective bail for K-P CM, PTI leaders only applies to court appearances, not protests. tribune.com.pk 
The Peshawar High Court has ruled that the protective bail granted to Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and several Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf lawmakers and leaders is solely meant to facilitate their appearance before the relevant courts and cannot be used to participate in protests or any anti-state activities. | A two-member bench comprising Justice Syed Arshad Ali and Justice Muhammad Faheem Wali issued the directions in a detailed four-page order while hearing petitions seeking protective bail filed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders. The bench also referred the matter to the Chief Just…
(2025-12-20). Cà¥te d'Ivoire Tightens Borders As Refugees Flow In From Mali. eurasiareview.com In the wake of a surge of refugees from neighboring Mali, Cà¥te d'Ivoire is adding security forces along its northern border. The refugees are fleeing terrorist attacks and economic blockades in their home country. | Cà¥te d'Ivoire's National Security Council said it was beefing up border security, including taking steps to register all Malians seeking asylum. GhanaWeb described the situation as "several unusual flows of refugees." | The latest refugee swell stems from renewed aggression by the terrorist group Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaida affiliate that has imposed a fuel bl…
(2025-12-20). Gold moves further out of public reach as prices extend rally. tribune.com.pk 
Gold prices continued to climb on Saturday, rising in both international and domestic markets, further pushing the precious metal beyond the reach of ordinary consumers. | In the international bullion market, spot gold rose 0.4% to $4,347.07 per ounce as of 02: 17 p.m. ET (19: 17 GMT), recording a weekly gain of 1.1%. Meanwhile, US gold futures settled 0.5% higher at $4,387.3 an ounce. | Earlier, benchmark gold prices had gained $13 to reach $4,338 per ounce. | Read: Gold prices rise continuously, further increases today | Following the global uptrend, gold prices in the local market also registered an increase.
(2025-12-20). How a failing Cambodia-Thailand ceasefire can illuminate the road to peace. globalvoices.org 
Amid renewed hostilities, can peace be restored between the two countries?Global Voices Border crossing between Cambodia and Thailand. This
(2025-12-20). Excise Department to collect garbage tax from January in Rawalpindi. tribune.com.pk 
The property tax shortfall of the Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Department in Rawalpindi has reached 55 per cent, prompting the director general to take strict notice of poor recovery and reprimand officers. | Complaints regarding the collection of professional tax from a top housing society in Rawalpindi have also been addressed, leading to action against a constable. | It has been decided that from January 1, 2026, the excise department will also start collecting garbage tax from houses and shops. From January 10 to January 20, the department will issue garbage tax bills to residents and shopkeepers…
(2025-12-20). Outrage as Bihar CM Nitish pulls down Muslim doctor's Hijab. ummid.com In a bizarre and sexist incident captured on camera, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar forcibly pulled down Hijab from the face of a Muslim doctor sparking a nationwide outrage.
(2025-12-20). Sinkholes highlight the cost of poor planning in Lahore. tribune.com.pk 
The monsoon season, while bringing relief from the summer's scorching heat and improving weather conditions, often becomes a source of distress for the residents of Lahore, who have to manoeuvre around sinking roads. | Over the past three years, more than 100 incidents have been reported in Lahore during the monsoon season involving collapsed sewerage and water pipelines and sunken roads. These incidents have injured more than 50 people and caused damage to dozens of vehicles. The aging and decaying sewerage system of the city, some parts of which are 30 to 40 years old, has been exposed during the heavy rains…
(2025-12-20). La più grande rapina in banca della storia. strategic-culture.su L'Unione Europea porta avanti i piani per confiscare definitivamente i beni russi | Segue nostro Per oltre due anni, si sono susseguite
(2025-12-20). Sunday 12/21: Winter solstice / Wingnut holiday office party. indybay.org Long Haul Infoshop – 3124 Shattuck Ave. Berkeley – 2 blocks from Ashby BART…
(2025-12-20). What Happens To A Shadow Fleet Ship When It's Sanctioned? Analysis. eurasiareview.com By Ray Furlong | A 58,000-ton oil tanker called the Mikati was ploughing through the waters of the Indian Ocean one day when it got some bad news from faraway Brussels: it had been added to a list of sanctioned vessels in Russia's The story of the Mikati, currently passing through the English Channel, illustrates the strengths and weaknesses of the European Union sanctions regime that now includes some 600 ships. | The EU listed the Mikati in July, following a similar decision by Britain in November l…
(2025-12-20). La più grande rapina in banca della storia. strategic-culture.su L'Unione Europea porta avanti i piani per confiscare definitivamente i beni russi | Segue nostro Per oltre due anni, si sono susseguite
(2025-12-20). Meet Ousmane Dembele FIFA Player of Year 2025. ummid.com Ousmane Dembele, France Forward and Paris St-Germain (PSG), has won the Men's Player of the Year 2025 at the Fifa Best Awards.
(2025-12-20). 17-Year verdict: Court jails former PM Bibi and Khan over state gifts. albawaba.com ALBAWABA – A Pakistani court, convened for a special session on Saturday, handed down a 17-year prison sentence to former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi. The ruling stemmed from a corruption case concerning the purchase of high-value jewelry at a nominal cost.Judge Shah Rukh Arjumand delivered the verdict following eighty hearings conducted within the confines of Adiala Jail.Rana Madathir Omar, the Khan family's lawyer, stated that the court delivered its verdict without allowing the defense to present its case. He also pointed out that both Imran and Bushra had been hit with substantial fine…
(2025-12-20). CID Boss Dismisses Claims Linking Him to Prof. Kateregga Family Dispute. plusnews.ug 
The Director of the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), Tom Magambo, has dismissed as false and misleading claims circulating online alleging his involvement in the ongoing family dispute between Kampala University Founder and Chancellor, Prof.Badru Kateregga and his wife, Jolly Shubaiha Kateregga. The couple, has for the bigger part of this and last year had marital …
(2025-12-20). Iran, Malaysia explore avenues to promote science diplomacy. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN — Iranian and Malaysian officials have discussed ways to enhance collaborations between the two countries, especially the promotion of science diplomacy.
(2025-12-20). RRB NTPC CEN 05/2024 CBT 2 Result Out: Check Here. ummid.com RRB NTPC CEN 05/2024 CBT 2 Result: The Ministry of Railways has result of the Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC-Graduate) CEN 05/2024, also known as RRB NTPC Graduate CBT 2, exam on its official website.
(2025-12-20). Jordan disappears journalist Mohammad Faraj after airport arrival. thecanary.co 
Journalist Mohammad Faraj has gone missing after arriving at Queen Alia International Airport in Jordan. Faraj, a journalist and a close friend of the Canary, was reportedly escorted away by officers of the Jordanian General Intelligence Department shortly after landing. That was over a week ago — on Friday 12 December 2025. Since then, he […] | By
(2025-12-20). Esteghlal club celebrate 80th anniversary. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN — Esteghlal football club marked the 80th anniversary of their establishment on Friday night in a ceremony held close to Yalda Night (the longest and darkest night of the year), attended by current members, former players, and club officials.
(2025-12-20). Red Cup Rebellion Solidarity Surges, New Union Baristas Join Historic ULP Strike Amid Holiday Rush. indybay.org NATIONWIDE, December 18, 2025 — As the holiday rush sets in for Starbucks, union baristas' historic Red Cup Rebellion grew again in strength and power Thursday as hundreds of new union Starbucks baristas across the country joined the unfair labor practice (ULP) strike. Union baristas' open-ended ULP strike began on Red Cup Day, November 13, and has gained momentum and solidarity from supporters each week since. Over 180 state and local elected officials sent a letter to Starbucks on Wednesday calling for the company to end union busting and finalize a fair union contract.
(2025-12-20). US unleashes Operation Hawkeye strike in Syria, Trump warns ISIS; 'You will be hit harder…'. hindustantimes.com The United States launched retaliatory strikes against ISIS targets in Syria following the killing of two American soldiers in a suspected ISIS attack on December 13. U.S. forces hit around 70 targets, including ISIS fighters, infrastructure, and weapons sites, according to reports. The operation was carried out as a direct response to the attack on U.S. troops stationed in Syria, where about 1,000 American personnel are deployed. U.S. officials warned terrorist groups against targeting Americans, stressing that the strikes were meant to deliver strong retaliation and demonstrate continued resolve to protect U.S.
(2025-12-20). Boris Kagarlitsky: Economic preconditions for peace. links.org.au 
Boris Kagarlitsky — Assessing Russia's economic situation, Ekaterina Shulman suggested that the country is running out of money and people. And indeed, by all indications, something is running out.
(2025-12-20). Pakistan seek first U19 Asia Cup title as they face India in final. tribune.com.pk 
Pakistan will take on India in the final of the ACC Men's U19 Asia Cup on Sunday, 21 December at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai. The first ball of the final will be bowled at 9am local time. | Since the tournament's inception in 1989, Pakistan — winners of the 2004 and 2006 ICC Men's U19 World Cups are yet to claim the U19 Asia Cup title in its 11 editions. | In the ongoing eight-team event, Pakistan won two of their three games in Group 'A' and advanced to the final after defeating Bangladesh by eight wickets in the second semi-final on Friday, 19 December. | Pakistan will rely on their batting star Sam…
(2025-12-20). Africa's Philosophy of Peace: A Podcast Interview with Sellah King'oro. worldbeyondwar.org 
"Colonialism didn't end with the raising of African flags," Sellah King'oro told me as we celebrated "Imagine Africa Beyond War", a regional peace conference with speakers from more than 17 countries last month. #worldbeyondwar…
(2025-12-20). Sudan War: Kordofan's El-Obeid 'One Or Two Steps' Away From Being Attacked. eurasiareview.com By Daniel Johnson | As fighting escalates in Sudan, "people are scared, people are fleeing their homes", the UN migration agency, IOM, said on Friday, noting that more than 50,000 people have been uprooted since late October in the Kordofans region alone. | "People in Sudan are not moving by choice, they are running just to find safety," said Mohamed Refaat, IOM Chief of Mission in Sudan. | Speaking from Port Sudan to journalists in Geneva, he urged all Member States and "everyone who can provide support" for Sudan's people, to ensure their protection. | Heavy shelling alert: | Latest reports from the…
(2025-12-20). Settler colonialism is a structure, not an event. independentaustralia.net 
(2025-12-20). A 'blue wave' or a new system? How to make universal healthcare a reality. liberationnews.org 
The U.S. has the resources, knowledge and skills to adopt universal health care right now. Socialism would redirect our resources towards people's health, not profits!
(2025-12-20). Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS comes nearest to Earth ahead of Christmas. ummid.com Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS is coming nearest to Earth on December 19, and astronomers are eager to welcome it as a Christmas 2025 gift.
(2025-12-20). Seven elephants killed by train accident in India. geo.tv 
Elephants eat fruits and vegetables at the Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation and Care Center, run by a non-governmental organisation, ahead of the World Elephant Day, in the northern town of Mathura, India, August 8, 2021. — Reuters
(2025-12-20). Thursday 12/25: Christmas Community Dinner. indybay.org Veterans Memorial Building | 846 Front Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060…
(2025-12-20). Health screening underway for women heads of households. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN — The health ministry, in collaboration with the Welfare Organization, is conducting health screening tests for women heads of households nationwide.
(2025-12-20). Bye bye and another brilliant year for new music. independentaustralia.net 
(2025-12-20). The Critical Flaw in Single-Event Hurricane Climate Attribution. wattsupwiththat.com Less than a month has passed since the official end of the 2025 hurricane season for the Northern Hemisphere. Interestingly, 2025 statistics show that Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) in the northern hemisphere was roughly 20% below the 1991-2020 mean while the number of major hurricanes and major hurricane days were down about 27% and 36%, respectively, compared to their 30-year averages (shown in parentheses).1…
(2025-12-20). US launches widespread airstrikes against Islamic State in Syria after deadly Palmyra attack. longwarjournal.org On December 19, US Central Command announced that US forces conducted "a large-scale strike against ISIS infrastructure and weapons sites in Syria." Al Arabiya reported that the United States hit "70 ISIS targets in sites in central Syria."
(2025-12-20). Bondi shooter visited gun shop during Philippines stay: police. geo.tv 
Police officers stand guard outside the house of the suspects of a shooting incident on a Jewish holiday celebration at Bondi Beach, in Bonnyrigg, Sydney, Australia, on December 15, 2025. — ReutersAustralian team probes if Sajid, Naveed met extremists in Mindanao.Davao hotel staff…
(2025-12-20). Monday 12/22: IF WE DONT ACT, THEY DIE! Rally At UK Consulate To Demand Release Of Political Prisoners. indybay.org UK British Consulate In San Francisco | 1 Sansome St. San Francisco…
(2025-12-20). Doctors Warn Lives Of Palestine Action Hunger Strikers 'At Risk'. popularresistance.org Medical professionals in the UK have warned that eight Palestine Action activists held in British prisons are at "imminent risk of death," with concerns raised publicly during a press conference in south London on 18 December. Emergency physician and University College London lecturer Dr. James Smith said the detainees' condition has sharply deteriorated and told reporters that "the hunger strikers are dying." | Smith said accounts from inside the prison system point to "substandard monitoring and treatment." | "It is my view, as an NHS doctor, that the complexity of the hunger strikers' care needs must now be ma…
(2025-12-20). Alonso wants Real to end 2025 on positive note. tribune.com.pk 
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso wants to leave the club's recent struggles behind and end the year on a high with a win over Sevilla on Saturday to keep the pressure on LaLiga leaders Barcelona. | Alonso's men were five points clear at the top before their form took a downturn in November. They drew three league games in a row before suffering a shock loss to Celta Vigo at home earlier this month, allowing champions Barcelona to surge four points ahead in the title race. | Real have shown signs of a turnaround with two wins in their last three league games, but Alonso, who has been under pressure due to the te…
(2025-12-20). Who Am "I" ? Both Body and Mind, New Research Says. portside.org Who Am "I"? Both Body and Mind, New Research Says |
(2025-12-20). Trump sues BBC for $10 Billion over altered capitol speech. albawaba.com ALBAWABA – Former President Donald Trump has launched a significant lawsuit against the BBC, alleging defamation. The lawsuit stems from the network's broadcast of an edited version of his January 6, 2021 speech. Trump's legal representatives claim the edit misrepresented his words, suggesting he had incited his supporters to breach the U.S. Capitol. The lawsuit, lodged in a Miami federal court, seeks $10 billion in damages. Trump contends that the BBC's editing of his speech was misleading. He claims they cut the video to omit his appeal for a peaceful demonstration, while emphasizing remarks that could be His l…
(2025-12-20). Taipei attacker acted alone in four-death spree, police claim. tehrantimes.com The man suspected of carrying out an attack in Taiwan with a smoke grenade and knife acted alone, police said on Saturday about the incident that killed four, including the attacker.
(2025-12-20). Ukraine MP Yulia Serko on tough choices as Ukraine war drags into fourth year. hindustantimes.com As the Ukraine-Russia war nears its fourth year, pressure is mounting on Kyiv from all sides. In this exclusive interview, Ukrainian MP Yulia Serko speaks candidly about battlefield realities, Europe's funding lifeline, Donald Trump's push for elections, and Moscow's uncompromising demands. With frozen Russian assets, NATO-style guarantees, and internal political strains now in play, the path to peace looks anything but simple. Serko outlines what Ukraine can accept, what it will never concede, and why the next phase of talks could shape Europe's future security order.
(2025-12-20). First We End The War, Then We Restart The Factories. popularresistance.org In mid-November 2025, at a United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) conference in Saudi Arabia, Basher Abdullah, an adviser to Sudan's Ministry of Industry and Trade, said, 'First, we need to end the war. Then, we have to restart the factories'. His comment was about Sudan's appalling civil war, but it could have been about many countries in the Global South that are in the midst of either a shooting war or a trade war. For these poorer nations, development has been set aside in favour of more immediate threats. Yet beyond the horizon of guns and extortion lies the need to imagine possible futur…
(2025-12-20). Iran: Narges Mohammadi, several other human rights defenders arbitrarily arrested in massive crackdown. fidh.org More than 50 people were arrested, including five women human rights defenders, while they were taking part in a memorial ceremony honouring a recently deceased fellow human rights defender. The Observatory (FIDH-OMCT) and the League for the Defence of Human Rights in Iran (LDDHI) strongly condemn these new arrests and call on the Iranian authorities to immediately and unconditionally release all those arbitrarily detained, including human rights defenders.
Paris-Geneva, 18 December 2025. (…) | – |
(2025-12-20). UN Security Council Demands Rwanda Withdraw From Congo. plusnews.ug 
The United Nations Security Council has condemned a renewed offensive by the M23 rebel group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, demanding that Rwanda cease any support for the fighters and withdraw its troops from Congolese territory, while also extending the mandate of the UN peacekeeping mission in the country. In a resolution adopted unanimously …
(2025-12-20). SEO head says investor confidence has returned, plans up to 20 IPOs by late Mar. 2026. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN — Iran's capital markets regulator said investor confidence has returned to the stock market and plans are in place to list up to 20 companies through initial public offerings by the end of the current Iranian year (late March 2026).
(2025-12-20). Central Asian writers, poets and physicians visit historical sites in Hamedan. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN – A delegation of 23 poets, writers and medical professionals from Tajikistan and Uzbekistan visited historical sites and medical facilities in Iran's western province of Hamedan as part of a cultural and scientific exchange program.
(2025-12-20). BJP and Shiv Sena Navigate Thane Election Alliance. devdiscourse.com The BJP and Shiv Sena are cautiously deliberating an alliance for the impending Thane Municipal Corporation elections. This strategic decision is expected shortly, following recent defections of Shiv Sena workers to the BJP in Thane district.
(2025-12-20). Transport Ministry unveils upgraded road maintenance fleet as renewal accelerates. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN — Iranian Transport and Urban Development Ministry has unveiled part of a renewed national road maintenance fleet at a ceremony attended by the transport minister, highlighting efforts to modernize equipment and strengthen the country's capacity to respond to road emergencies.
(2025-12-20). Jinja City Launches Monthly General Cleaning Campaign. plusnews.ug 
Jinja City authorities have launched a compulsory monthly general cleaning campaign, requiring traders and other well-wishers to temporarily close their businesses and participate in coordinated garbage collection exercises. The campaign, dubbed "Keep Jinja City Clean," is aimed at encouraging members of the public to take responsibility for maintaining cleanliness in their workplaces and homes. Leading …
(2025-12-20). Diversity is Entropy is Information (D=E=I). fairobserver.com 
In 1993, Professor Carver Mead of the California Institute of Technology, one of the century's greatest technologists, told me the wisest words I can remember. Carver, as many called him, had been my erstwhile professor of sub-threshold analog chip design. His classes in analog circuits and continuous computation, crucial concepts powering today's AIs, were part…
(2025-12-20). Tehran to host Yalda festival across 22 districts. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN – Tehran will hold Yalda festival events across its 22 municipal districts through Sunday, Dec. 21, the head of the Tehran Municipality Tourism Headquarters said.
(2025-12-20). Putin's Russia: Testing the limits of state-directed mobilization. links.org.au 
Ilya Matveev — The Russian economy appears resilient for now, but long-term stagnation is nearly unavoidable.
(2025-12-20). Cà¥te d'Ivoire Tightens Borders As Refugees Flow In From Mali. eurasiareview.com In the wake of a surge of refugees from neighboring Mali, Cà¥te d'Ivoire is adding security forces along its northern border. The refugees are fleeing terrorist attacks and economic blockades in their home country. | Cà¥te d'Ivoire's National Security Council said it was beefing up border security, including taking steps to register all Malians seeking asylum. GhanaWeb described the situation as "several unusual flows of refugees." | The latest refugee swell stems from renewed aggression by the terrorist group Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaida affiliate that has imposed a fuel bl…
(2025-12-20). Cuba highlights the value of human solidarity and global cooperation. plenglish.com Havana, Dec. 20 (Prensa Latina) The Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the value of global cooperation in overcoming common challenges, on the occasion of International Human Solidarity Day.
(2025-12-20). PM calls for tighter immigration controls, protection for legal travellers. tribune.com.pk 
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a meeting on Saturday at the Prime Minister's House in Islamabad to review measures against human trafficking, undocumented foreign travel, and weaknesses in the country's immigration processes. | The prime minister was briefed on recent enforcement actions by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), including the arrest of 451 individuals involved in human trafficking and illegal migration. | He also noted the airport inspections carried out by Mohsin Naqvi following complaints about passenger offloading, describing the intervention as timely and necessary. | The prime min…
(2025-12-20). Political Tensions Rise Amid Power Struggle in Karnataka. devdiscourse.com Amid escalating tensions within Karnataka's political sphere, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar addressed issues regarding leadership disputes involving himself and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The Congress high command has arranged for the leaders to visit Delhi to deliberate on the matter, with Shivakumar affirming his commitment to transparency.
(2025-12-20). In The Pay Of Foundations Revisited: How US Power Elite Funds "Parallel Left" Media (1). indybay.org Some U.S. "parallel left" alternative media groups have funded their news operations by accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars in "charitable" grants from tax-exempt foundations of same U.S. power elite whose undemocratic abuses of power, crimes and immoral policies they claim to be exposing and holding accountable in their "independent journalism" work and reporting.
(2025-12-20). Delhi Fog: 13 dead as 7 buses, 3 cars collide on Yamuna Expressway. ummid.com In a tragic incident Tuesday Dec 16, as many as 13 people have been killed in multiple collisions – involving 7 buses and 3 cars, on Yamuna Expressway (Delhi-Agra Highway).
(2025-12-20). Holiday Shoppers Are Flexing Political Power Through Boycotts. popularresistance.org For 38 weeks straight, racial justice protesters have been gathering outside a Target in Washington, D.C. to call out the company for suspending its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts, aligning itself with the Trump administration's attacks on DEI. | To put additional pressure on the company, those advocates have been calling for "Target fasts," in which people completely abstain from purchasing anything from Target. | The boycott began in February, following Target's suspension of DEI efforts, and was initiated by Until Freedom, a nonprofit organization dedicated to community activism and rapid response.
(2025-12-20). Discovered: Exoplanet with two tails. ummid.com In a first, a team of researchers in Canada and Switzerland has discovered an exoplanet, which has not one, but two tails.
(2025-12-20). Commodities worth $244m exported from Mazandaran province in 8 months. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN- Non-oil commodities valued at $244.382 million were exported from Mazandaran province, in the north of Iran, during the first eight months of the current Iranian calendar year (March 21-Novemebr 21), according to a provincial official.
(2025-12-20). Jordanian arrest of journalist Mohamed Faraj is a blatant attack on free Arab media. samidoun.net 
Samidoun Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity Network denounces in the strongest terms the Jordanian authorities' arrest of Al-Mayadeen TV journalist Mohammed Faraj and his arbitrary detention for more than a week without any declared legal justification, and without revealing his place of detention or the charges against him. This is a dangerous step that affects the most …
(2025-12-20). Marine reptile fossils found in Colombia. plenglish.com Bogota, Dec. 20 (Prensa Latina) Researchers from the Colombian Geological Survey (SGC) reported the discovery of three marine reptile fossils that lived during the Cretaceous period, never before recorded in South America.
(2025-12-20). Brandt, Beier send Dortmund second in Bundesliga. tribune.com.pk 
Goals from Julian Brandt and Maximilian Beier lifted Borussia Dortmund to a nervy 2-0 home win over Borussia Moenchengladbach on Friday and up to second in the Bundesliga table. | Brandt's early strike put Dortmund ahead but the hosts, who have dropped a number of points from winning positions this season, once again struggled with the lead. | Gladbach's teenage midfielder Wael Mohya forced a reflex save from Dortmund 'keeper Gregor Kobel with 10 minutes remaining, before Beier sealed the victory deep into stoppage time. | "It felt good to score a late goal of our own this time and not concede an equaliser," B…
(2025-12-20). VIDEO: Snow blankets Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — Heavy snowfall on Friday night covered the holy shrine of Imam Reza in Mashhad, transforming its courtyards and golden dome into a serene winter landscape.
(2025-12-20). Netanyahu plans to brief Trump on possible new Iran strikes, NBC News reports. tribune.com.pk 
US President Donald Trump is set to be briefed by Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that any expansion of Iran's ballistic missile program poses a threat that could necessitate swift action, NBC News reported on Saturday. | Israeli officials are concerned that Iran is reconstituting nuclear enrichment sites the U.S. bombed in June, and are preparing to brief Trump for options on attacking the missile program again, the NBC report added. | According to NBC, Israeli officials are increasingly concerned that Iran is working to reconstitute nuclear enrichment sites struck by US forces in June, sources sai…
(2025-12-20). Kazakhstan: Physical attacks and judicial harassment of LGBTQIA+ defenders Temirlan Baimash, Ardzh Tursynkhan, and Zhanar Sekerbayeva. fidh.org At the end of November 2025, unidentified individuals and state authorities physically attacked Kazakhstani LGBTQIA+ defenders Temirlan Baimash, Ardzh Tursynkhan, and Zhanar Sekerbayeva. The three defenders were subsequently arbitrarily arrested and subjected to judicial harassment. The Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders (OMCT-FIDH) condemns the repeated acts of physical and verbal violence, intimidation, and arbitrary detention targeting LGBTQIA+ human rights defenders (…) | – |
(2025-12-20). Ilam scholar mentions ancient cities, monuments eligible for UNESCO registration. tehrantimes.com Habibollah Mahmoudian, PhD, is a specialist in prehistoric archaeology and a faculty member of the Islamic Azad University, Ilam Province. He has also published over 100 books as well as 200 articles in domestic and international publications. In an interview with the Tehran Times, Mahmoudian elaborated on his achievements, the western province's history, tourism, ancient cities, and monuments that are eligible for registration on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
(2025-12-20). Bangladesh tightens security after youth leader's killing amid rising unrest. tribune.com.pk 
Bangladesh deployed police and paramilitary forces in the capital on Saturday ahead of funeral prayers for slain youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, whose killing has triggered widespread violence and unrest across the country. | Hadi, 32, a key figure in last year's student-led uprising that toppled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, was shot in the head by masked assailants while launching his election campaign in Dhaka last week. He died on Thursday night in Singapore after six days on life support. | The unrest erupted amid rising political tensions following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina…
(2025-12-20). Pakistan: End Judicial Harassment of Human Rights Lawyers Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha. fidh.org The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) and the undersigned organizations express deep concern over the ongoing judicial harassment of human rights lawyers Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha in Pakistan.
The prosecution, widely known publicly as the "tweets case," targets social media commentary critical of state conduct, including allegations of enforced disappearances and other human rights violations in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. (…) | – |
(2025-12-20). California 175 – Kwanzaa – Freedom's Eve Historic Old Sacramento Waterfront. indybay.org Since before the California Gold Rush people of Pan African Ancestry, both free and enslaved, have made a profound contribution along today's American River Parkway. Our California Underground Railroad Network to Freedom remains a major milestone worthy of restoration.
(2025-12-20). It's Time for an All-Out Food Fight With Trump. portside.org It's Time for an All-Out Food Fight With Trump |
(2025-12-20). US Should Seek To Elevate Ties With Turkic Bloc Analysis. eurasiareview.com By Luke Coffey | Washington on Monday played host to an unusually quiet but geopolitically significant visit. Kubanychbek Omuraliev, the secretary-general of the Organization of Turkic States, arrived in the US capital for meetings with State Department officials, members of Congress and policy leaders. This was an important visit that could lead to closer relations between the Turkic world and the US. | It came on the heels of last month's historic meeting between President Donald Trump and his Central Asian counterparts at the White House to mark the 10th anniversary of the C5+1 format, as well as the US-bro…
(2025-12-20). DAILY MEMO: The Escalation Continues Before Christmas as ICE, HSI, and Border Patrol Set Record Raids Again. lataco.com In another record setting week, not only have the raids and kidnappings escalated, but so has the recklessness. The week saw more car chases, accidents, children placed in danger and separated from parents, more people detained and released, and new areas of Southern California targeted heavier than before like Antelope and Coachella Valleys.
(2025-12-20). 'Working to solve ranking points issue'. tribune.com.pk 
A decision on whether LIV Golf events can earn world ranking points could come in time for the Saudi-backed circuit's season opener in February, Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) governing board chairman Trevor Immelman said on Friday. | The breakaway tour's initial bid was unanimously rejected by the OWGR in 2023, with a key concern said to be limited access for players to join the competition. | The issue has led to LIV players plummeting down the world rankings, with former world number one Dustin Johnson now ranked 637th and Englishman Tyrrell Hatton LIV's highest-ranked representative at 20th. | In June,…
(2025-12-20). Friday Nite Videos | December 19, 2025. portside.org Friday Nite Videos | December 19, 2025 |
(2025-12-20). As Trump Touts 9 New Prescription Drug Deals, Many Call for Systemic Reform. truthout.org "Starting next year, American drug prices will come down fast and furious and will soon be the lowest in the developed world," President Donald Trump claimed Friday as the White House announced agreements with nine pharmaceutical manufacturers. The administration struck most favored nation (MFN) pricing deals with Amgen, Bristol Myers Squibb, Boehringer Ingelheim, Genentech, Gilead Sciences… |
(2025-12-20). Google warns US visa staff against international travel. tribune.com.pk Alphabet Inc's Google has advised some employees on US visas to avoid international travel due to prolonged visa processing delays at US embassies, Business Insider reported, citing an internal email. | According to the report, the email, sent on Thursday by the company's external counsel, BAL Immigration Law, warned employees who require a visa stamp to re-enter the United States not to travel abroad, as processing times at embassies have lengthened significantly. | Read: Google announces shutdown of Dark Web monitoring tool | Google did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. | The memo sai…
(2025-12-20). Iraq destroys two ISIL hideouts in Anbar province. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — Iraq's Joint Operations Command announced that the country's F-16 fighter jets destroyed two ISIL hideouts north of Rawah in Anbar province during a successful security operation.
(2025-12-20). Angolan president expresses sorrow over the death of a nationalist. plenglish.com Luanda, Dec. 20 (Prensa Latina) Angolan President Joao Lourenco expressed his condolences to the family of nationalist Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos, who passed away in Luanda.
(2025-12-20). Morocco vs. Jordan 2025 FIFA Arab Cup Final Tonight. ummid.com The high stake 2025 FIFA Arab Cup Final Match between Morocco and Jordan is scheduled for today i.e. Thursday December 18, 2025 in Qatar.
(2025-12-20). Project Khushi: Because behind every Khaki is a Human who deserves care. ummid.com Built around simple, healthy lifestyle changes, Project Khushi is a three-month structured evidence-based health and wellness initiative designed especially for Bengaluru City Police Personnel.
(2025-12-20). Academic meeting examines role of narrative in museums. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN — An academic meeting titled "Narrative in the Museum: From Representation to Education" was held on Saturday at the Faculty of Art and Architecture of Tarbiat Modares University, organizers said.
(2025-12-20). Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Poll Dates in Mumbai, Other Cities Out. ummid.com The Maharashtra State Election Commission Monday December 15, 2025 released the long awaited election schedule of the 29 Municipal Corporations or Maha Nagar Palika, of Maharashtra.
(2025-12-20). Tehran in the final days of autumn. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — As autumn draws to a close, Tehran takes on a distinct atmosphere, with yellow and orange leaves lining the streets and cool air signaling the approach of winter.
(2025-12-20). NASA explorer solves Black Hole jets mystery. ummid.com A team of NASA astronomers using its IXPE (Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer) has identified the origin of X-rays in a supermassive black hole's jet, answering a question that has been unresolved since the earliest days of X-ray astronomy.
(2025-12-20). 'You Have a Double Standard About Which Populations Are Considered Roulette Chips'CounterSpin interview with Judd Legum and Adam Johnson on gambling on the news. fair.org 
(2025-12-20). ATC hands 10-year jail terms to Yasmin Rashid, Omar Cheema, and other PTI leaders in May 9 cases. tribune.com.pk 
(2025-12-20). Hong Kong flu has pandemic potential: Virologist. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — The next pandemic may be caused by the A(H3N2) (also known as Hong Kong flu) or A(H5N1) (avian flu) subtypes of the influenza virus, a Russian infectious diseases specialist told media.
(2025-12-20). Wealth Tax: A Simplistic Answer To Complex Problems OpEd. eurasiareview.com By Kristian Guise | Recently, great interest has been paid to ideas of a British wealth tax. Britain's struggling finances have caused eyewatering tax rises and seen the rise of the Green Party whose policy is to tax wealth. | A wealth tax is a direct tax on the value of an individual's total net assets at a certain point in time. These assets include vehicles, jewelry, artwork/antiques, savings/investments, cash, property, intellectual property, and businesses. Such a tax would be catastrophic, as I will show. | Less Revenue Generated Than Predicted: | Proponents argue that a wealth tax would deliver…
(2025-12-20). CLAT 2026 Result Out: Link, Steps to Check. ummid.com The Consortium of National Law Universities has declared the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2026 UG and PG results on its official website consortiumofnlus.ac.in (clat.ac.in).
(2025-12-20). Yalda Night exhibition brings festive spirit to Kermanshah. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — On the eve of Yalda Night, a seasonal exhibition in Kermanshah has added a festive atmosphere to the city, showcasing a variety of products associated with the ancient Iranian celebration.
(2025-12-20). Trump EPA Plan Would Restrict Public's Right to Know About Climate Pollution. truthout.org Since 2010, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has required large industrial facilities to report their greenhouse gas emissions. The data, which the EPA's Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program has been collecting since 2011, is essential in efforts to reduce emissions and provides vital information to the public about climate pollution from the largest U.S. polluters. However, the Trump EPA has… |
(2025-12-20). Without Pennies, Should Retailers Round Up Or Down? States Offer Their 2 Cents. eurasiareview.com By Kevin Hardy | As pennies vanish from the American landscape, many businesses are clamoring for federal guidance on how to handle cash transactions in a penniless world. | Should retailers round up or down? Should they round in favor of the customer? Or in favor of the business? | So far, calls for federal direction have gone unanswered. Some businesses are setting their own policies, but states are now beginning to act amid growing uncertainty. | While the question revolves around only a few cents per transaction, it does raise important consumer protection and legal questions for states to consider. Retail…
(2025-12-20). Why Tucker Carlson's Racist Narrative About Somali Americans Does Not Hold Up. indybay.org Somali Americans are not outsiders waiting to prove their worth. They are already doing so — quietly, persistently, and across every sector of society. The failure, if there is one, lies not with them, but with those who refuse to see what is directly in front of them.
(2025-12-20). Honduras: Magistrate refuses to validate election results. plenglish.com Tegucigalpa, Dec. 20 (Prensa Latina) Marlon Ochoa, one of the three magistrates of Honduras' National Electoral Council (CNE), stated that he will challenge the results of the general elections held on November 30, deeming them fraudulent.
(2025-12-20). Cuba decries historical US aggression and slams Marco Rubio. plenglish.com Havana, Dec. 20 (Prensa Latina) Cuba described the performance of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as "disastrous" and pointed to his inability to explain Washington's hostile policy toward the island, according to press reports.
(2025-12-20). "Black Rabbit, White Rabbit" honored at Kerala film festival. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN- Iranian director Shahram Mokri's latest film "Black Rabbit, White Rabbit" was honored at the closing ceremony of the 30th edition of the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, India on Friday.
(2025-12-20). Scientific Report or Legal Brief? The Hunga Tonga Assessment and the Anatomy of Narrative Closure. wattsupwiththat.com In that sense, the document reads less like an open scientific inquiry and more like a legal brief. Evidence is marshaled, counterarguments anticipated, uncertainties catalogued, and a verdict delivered early, then defended at length. The goal is not discovery, but closure.
(2025-12-20). "America First" Means Re-Engaging with Afghanistan. fairobserver.com As Washington looks away from Kabul, Moscow and Beijing are leaning in. Beijing has maintained dialogue — without formal recognition — with the new Afghan government to sustain its investments and border security. Russia, on the other hand, was the first nation to formally recognize the Taliban's government, promising incoming investment and additional avenues for…
(2025-12-20). Karnataka Congress Protests VB-G RAM G Bill and 'Hate Politics'. devdiscourse.com The Karnataka Congress on Saturday organized a protest at Freedom Park against the central government's decision to replace MGNREGA with the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Bill, 2025. State Congress president and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar led the demonstration, alongside various party leaders and legislators.
(2025-12-20). Columbia Carnegie Corp. of NY Connection Revisited. indybay.org At its September 2025 meeting, the Carnegie Corp. of NY's board of trustees authorized a "charitable" grant of $1 million to TAU-affiliated Columbia University "for core support of the Institute of Global Politics" that Columbia SIPA Professor Hillary Clinton co-directs.
(2025-12-20). FIA arrests 451 involved in human trafficking, reducing illegal migration by 47%. tribune.com.pk 
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) reported at a review meeting held on Saturday that this year, 451 individuals involved in human trafficking and illegal travel networks had been arrested. As a result, the number of Pakistanis illegally travelling to Europe had dropped by 47%, with similar reductions seen in illegal travel to the UK and Gulf countries. | According to Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif, the relevant authorities are taking steps to address human trafficking, like the Federal Minister for Interior personally visiting airports to review recent offloading cases. "The Minister's proactive appro…
(2025-12-20). Saturday 1/10: Trump Regime Takedown (every Saturday). indybay.org corner of Van Ness and O'Farrell St, San Francisco…
(2025-12-20). Vande Mataram: BJP, Muslim League on Same Page. ummid.com When Jinnah had raised the issue in the 1930s, Nehru had stated in a forthright manner that the issue is being raised by communal elements. Same thing is happening now.
(2025-12-20). Putin imposes an "Impossible" condition for halting the war in Ukraine. albawaba.com ALBAWABA – Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday that Moscow could consider suspending long-range attacks inside Ukraine, but only if Kyiv proceeds with national elections — a condition that immediately reignited political debate around Ukraine's wartime governance.Speaking during his annual press conference in Moscow, Putin said Russia is willing to "examine security guarantees" and refrain from targeting deep into Ukrainian territory if Ukraine holds elections in which Ukrainian citizens residing in Russia are also allowed to vote.His remarks come shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump accuse…
(2025-12-20). Houthi Ambitions and the Southern State: A Regional Flashpoint. fairobserver.com Yemen's protracted civil war — now more than a decade old — continues to reshape the political fabric of the Arabian Peninsula. Since the Iran-aligned Houthi movement seized Sanaa in 2014, the conflict has fractured the country into rival centers of power and competing visions of statehood, creating a landscape that analysts at the Council…
(2025-12-20). Moscow intent on pressing on in Ukraine: Putin. tribune.com.pk 
Russia's Vladimir Putin on Friday said the ball was in the court of the West and Kyiv in talks to end the war in Ukraine, while hailing Moscow's recent battlefield gains and threatening more. | Speaking during his annual end-of-year news conference — a staple of his 25-year rule — Putin told Russians that Moscow was intent on pressing on in Ukraine, striking a confident tone. | The 73-year-old repeatedly says that Moscow will seize the rest of Ukrainian land he has proclaimed as Russian by force if talks fail. | Putin said Friday he did not feel personally responsible for the tens of thousands of p…
(2025-12-20). 1/4 of Syrian Expat Refugees Have Returned, but many to Destroyed Homes, Land Disputes. juancole.com By (The Conversation) — Close to That extraordinary figure represents
(2025-12-20). Drinking Water for Millions Is Threatened as Trump Targets National Monuments. truthout.org This article originally appeared on Inside Climate News, a nonprofit, non-partisan news organization that covers climate, energy and the environment. Sign up for their newsletter here. The 31 national monuments designated since the Clinton administration, which could be downsized as the Trump administration pushes to open more public lands to extractive industries, safeguard clean water for… |
(2025-12-20). Court restores Musk's $56B Payday, overturning blocked compensation deal. albawaba.com ALBAWABA – The Delaware Supreme Court's decision on Friday dramatically altered the course of the legal dispute surrounding Elon Musk's unprecedented compensation. The court reinstated a $56 billion pay award for the Tesla CEO, overturning previous rulings that had deemed it invalid. | The ruling reverses two 2024 decisions made by Chancellor Kathaleen McCormick of the Delaware Court of Chancery. Those earlier judgments had deemed Musk's 2018 compensation plan excessive and approved via a flawed procedure. McCormick contended back then that Tesla's board was unduly swayed by Musk, describing him as a "superstar…
(2025-12-20). US carries out large-scale retaliatory strikes against Daesh in Syria, say officials. geo.tv 
Smoke and flames rise over a hill near the Syrian town of Kobani after an airstrike, as seen from the Mursitpinar crossing on the Turkish-Syrian border in the southeastern town of Suruc in Sanliurfa province, October 23, 2014.— ReutersUS has 1,000 troops in Syria.Retaliatory…
(2025-12-20). Port of Oakland Commission Hears Increasing Demand to Stop Arming Israel. indybay.org Largest Protest yet in rally and "Pack the Port" action as outrage continues over Oakland's airport complicity in shipping arms to Israel.
(2025-12-20). The Record Hot UK Summer of 2025: Validation of the UKMO Methodology, but the Record Was Only in Tmin. wattsupwiththat.com The record hot summer of 2025 in the UK was in the nightly minimum temperatures, not in the daytime maximum temperatures. This is true in both my analysis and that of the UKMO.
(2025-12-20). Federal govt rejects KP claims of stalled NFC funds. tribune.com.pk 
The federal government on Saturday rejected claims that it had withheld funds from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, saying the province has been receiving its full share under the National Finance Commission Award through regular fortnightly transfers and that no outstanding liabilities exist. | The clarification followed accusations by Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi that federal funds, particularly for the merged tribal districts, had been stalled, with alleged arrears running into Rs 2,200 billion. | Speaking while chairing the 43rd provincial cabinet meeting in Peshawar, Afridi accused the federal gover…
(2025-12-20). Punjab advances e-taxi initiative as selection phase begins. tribune.com.pk 
The Punjab government is moving into the decisive phase of its inaugural electric taxi scheme, with officials confirming that electronic balloting will soon determine the first recipients of the province's highly anticipated green transport fleet. | During a high-level steering committee meeting chaired by Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan on Saturday, authorities revealed that the programme has triggered an overwhelming public response. To date, the government has recorded more than 66,000 initial registrations, resulting in over 28,000 finalised applications currently undergoing rigorous data verification.
(2025-12-20). YOU LOVE TO SEE IT: Bottled Water Gets Squeezed. levernews.com 
(2025-12-20). Israel spy Aghil Keshavarz executed in Iran. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — Iran has carried out the execution of Aghil Keshavarz after the country's Supreme Court upheld his death sentence on charges of espionage and intelligence cooperation with Israel.
(2025-12-20). After the first 70,669 deaths. strategic-culture.su By Patrick LAWRENCE | Join us on , , and . | Contact us: | I take the 15 victims at Bondi Beach and divide them by the 71,000 deaths in…
(2025-12-20). Trump's Plan to Reshape The World. ummid.com C5 (Core Five) and Pax Silica – US President Donald Trump is looking to present a new global alliance.
(2025-12-20). Persepolis to host Yalda Night ceremony. tehrantimes.com TEHRAN – The UNESCO-registered Persepolis will host a ceremony of Yalda Night on Sunday to mark the winter solstice and celebrate one of the country's oldest cultural traditions, site officials said.
(2025-12-20). First autumn snowfall blankets Isfahan. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 20 (MNA) — The first autumn snowfall began in Iran's Isfahan, delighting residents after a prolonged period of cold weather and severe air pollution.
(2025-12-20). Climate Change Weekly 566— Big Banks No Longer Bound by Federal Climate Accounting Rules. wattsupwiththat.com Whether Kennedy [lead author of the study] is right (or Lindzen and Happer or Clauser) is by the way. Alternative hypotheses are in the skeptical scientific tradition of searching for theories which better explain the facts than does the received theory. That is particularly important in this case. The received theory is upending life as we know it, while being shielded from rival theories by money, politics and pseudo-religiosity.
(2025-12-20). Ministerio Público investiga posibles delitos electorales en Honduras. cubadebate.cu El Ministerio Público (MP) anunció este viernes la apertura de diligencias investigativas por presuntos delitos electorales relacionados con las elecciones generales del 30 de noviembre de 2025. Las pesquisas, a cargo de la Unidad Contra Delitos Electorales, abarcan múltiples irregularidades denunciadas públicamente antes, durante y después de los comicios.
(2025-12-20). Conozca la tasa de cambio oficial para el sábado 20 diciembre de 2025. cubadebate.cu Cubadebate comparte con sus lectores la tasa de cambio oficial del Banco Central, correspondiente al segmento III, para el sábado 20 de diciembre.
(2025-12-20). Respuesta "Acertijo telenovelero, con la matemática, el conocimiento y la creatividad" cubadebate.cu De nuevo aplazamos la respuesta para el viernes esperando la llegada de nuevos comentarios. Además, desde hace tres días tengo interrumpido mi teléfono fijo, lo que complica la edición de mi respuesta. Vamos por partes.
(2025-12-20). Comercializan kits solares a sectores subsidiados en Holguín. cubadebate.cu La Corporación Productora y Exportadora de Tecnología Electrónica (Copextel) en Holguín comercializa kits de energía solar a trabajadores de sectores presupuestados, con el propósito de contribuir al ahorro eléctrico y avanzar de manera paulatina en el cambio de la matriz energética del territorio.
(2025-12-20). Obispo, la calle de las calles. cubadebate.cu Recuerda Federico Villoch en una de sus Viejas postales descoloridas que entonces Obispo era una calle típica de los trópicos, alegre y exaltada, con algunos tenderetes casi sobre las aceras, bulliciosa y caldeada por una atmósfera ambarina de oro en polvo que tamizaba el sol a través de los toldos de lona que cubrían la vía en toda su trayectoria.
(2025-12-20). Este domingo en Cuadrando la Caja: Producción de alimentos en Cuba. cubadebate.cu Este domingo en Cuadrando la caja: øCuál es la situación actual de nuestro país con respecto a la producción de alimentos? øQué factores afectan cumplir a cabalidad con los planes y las campañas de producción de alimentos? øQué nos falta por hacer? øCómo multiplicar lo que se está haciendo bien?.
(2025-12-20). Ministerio Público investiga posibles delitos electorales en Honduras. cubadebate.cu El Ministerio Público (MP) anunció este viernes la apertura de diligencias investigativas por presuntos delitos electorales relacionados con las elecciones generales del 30 de noviembre de 2025. Las pesquisas, a cargo de la Unidad Contra Delitos Electorales, abarcan múltiples irregularidades denunciadas públicamente antes, durante y después de los comicios.
(2025-12-20). Conozca la tasa de cambio oficial para el sábado 20 diciembre de 2025. cubadebate.cu Cubadebate comparte con sus lectores la tasa de cambio oficial del Banco Central, correspondiente al segmento III, para el sábado 20 de diciembre.
(2025-12-20). Respuesta "Acertijo telenovelero, con la matemática, el conocimiento y la creatividad" cubadebate.cu De nuevo aplazamos la respuesta para el viernes esperando la llegada de nuevos comentarios. Además, desde hace tres días tengo interrumpido mi teléfono fijo, lo que complica la edición de mi respuesta. Vamos por partes.
(2025-12-20). Este domingo en Cuadrando la Caja: Producción de alimentos en Cuba. cubadebate.cu Este domingo en Cuadrando la caja: øCuál es la situación actual de nuestro país con respecto a la producción de alimentos? øQué factores afectan cumplir a cabalidad con los planes y las campañas de producción de alimentos? øQué nos falta por hacer? øCómo multiplicar lo que se está haciendo bien?.
(2025-12-20). Cuba y China firman nuevo convenio de cooperación cultural. cubadebate.cu El Ministerio de Cultura de Cuba (Mincult) y la Feria Internacional de Industrias Culturales de China (ICIF) firmaron hoy un convenio marco en aras de fortalecer la amistad y cooperación en este sector entre ambas naciones. Vemos un gran potencial cultural mutuamente ventajoso en las relaciones de nuestros dos países, expresó el ministro de cultura cubano, Alpidio Alonso.
(2025-12-20). Premios Nikon de la vida silvestre: BBC publica las imágenes más divertidas de 2025. cubadebate.cu Este año, los organizadores recibieron la cifra récord de 10.000 candidaturas de 109 países, el número más alto en los 10 años de historia del concurso. El premio fue creado en 2015 por el fotógrafo británico de vida silvestre Paul Joynson-Hicks, quien tuvo la idea de crear el concurso tras reírse a carcajadas al ver una colección de fotos de animales.
(2025-12-20). Cuba will pay tribute to iconic singer-songwriter. plenglish.com Matanzas, Cuba, Dec. 20 (Prensa Latina) The Teatro de las Estaciones company, from the Cuban province of Matanzas, will present an artistic performance in homage to the 95th anniversary of the birth of Cuban singer-songwriter Teresita Fernandez.
(2025-12-20). Serie Nacional: Cienfuegos mantiene su lugar en zona de clasificación. cubadebate.cu Los Elefantes de Cienfuegos se defendieron hoy ante el embate de los Vegueros de Pinar del Río y se mantuvieron aferrados a la zona clasificatoria de la 64. ™ Serie Nacional de Béisbol. Mañana sábado, según informó la Comisión Nacional, todos los duelos de esta jornada volverán a disputarse en los mismos estadios.
(2025-12-20). Honduras: Inicio del escrutinio especial, tensiones electorales y cambio en la cúpula militar. cubadebate.cu Luego de dieciocho días marcados por irregularidades y denuncias de fraude, el Consejo Nacional Electoral (CNE) en Honduras inició este jueves el recuento del denominado "escrutinio especial", un proceso que podría resultar determinante para el desenlace del actual proceso electoral en ese país.
(2025-12-20). Tribunal Supremo de Brasil rechaza último intento de defensa de Jair Bolsonaro. cubadebate.cu El camino judicial del expresidente brasileño Jair Bolsonaro quedó prácticamente sellado hoy, tras el Supremo Tribunal Federal (STF) rechazar el último intento de su defensa por revertir la extensa condena por tentativa golpista. La decisión fue adoptada por el juez Alexandre de Moraes, instructor del proceso, quien desestimó el recurso presentado.
(2025-12-20). Tribunal Supremo de Brasil rechaza último intento de defensa de Jair Bolsonaro. cubadebate.cu El camino judicial del expresidente brasileño Jair Bolsonaro quedó prácticamente sellado hoy, tras el Supremo Tribunal Federal (STF) rechazar el último intento de su defensa por revertir la extensa condena por tentativa golpista. La decisión fue adoptada por el juez Alexandre de Moraes, instructor del proceso, quien desestimó el recurso presentado.
(2025-12-20). Murió Peter Arnett, el periodista ganador del premio Pulitzer despedido por NBC en Irak. cubadebate.cu Durante su carrera profesional, no solo tuvo situaciones de éxito y reconocimiento, sino que también fue criticado por algunas de sus decisiones, como en 2003, cuando fue despedido de NBC y National Geographic tras conceder una entrevista a la TV estatal iraquí, cuando cubría la segunda Guerra del Golfo.
(2025-12-20). El enemigo principal está en casa. cubadebate.cu Mientras tanto, ante cada nueva sanción, ante cada amenaza, ante cada maniobra de desestabilización, la consigna luxemburguiana mantiene toda su vigencia: ni un hombre, ni una mujer, ni un centavo para la guerra imperial contra los pueblos; todo para la lucha por la paz, la soberanía y la fraternidad internacional de la clase trabajadora.
(2025-12-20). El enemigo principal está en casa. cubadebate.cu Mientras tanto, ante cada nueva sanción, ante cada amenaza, ante cada maniobra de desestabilización, la consigna luxemburguiana mantiene toda su vigencia: ni un hombre, ni una mujer, ni un centavo para la guerra imperial contra los pueblos; todo para la lucha por la paz, la soberanía y la fraternidad internacional de la clase trabajadora.
(2025-12-20). La revisione Aukus del Pentagono nasconde qualcosa? strategic-culture.su Nella nuova Strategia di Sicurezza Nazionale USA, l'area dell'Indo-Pacifico viene definita come un insieme di mercati da conquistare e rotte commerciali da difendere | Segue nostro Aukus, acronimo inglese delle tre nazioni firmatarie, è un patto di sicurezza trilaterale tra Australia, Regno Unito e Stati Uniti, annunciato il 15 settembre 2021, che si compone di due pilastri essenziali: il Pilastro I, riguarda l'impegno di fornire all'Aus…
(2025-12-20). Watch: Ahmed al Ahmed tackles, disarms Bondi Beach gunman. ummid.com In a rare display of bravery, a Muslim fruit seller, later identified as Ahmed el Ahmad, tackled and disarmed the Bondi Beach gunman who targeted the Jewish festival Sunday.
(2025-12-20). UN's top court to hold Myanmar genocide hearings in January. aljazeera.com Witnesses from Myanmar's Rohingya community will also address closed-door ICJ hearing.
(2025-12-20). MSF urges Israel to let critical aid into Gaza as children freeze to death. aljazeera.com At least 13 people in Gaza, including two-week-old and one-month-old babies, have died from winter weather.
(2025-12-20). Islamic University of Gaza resumes classes on site amid Israeli destruction. aljazeera.com Students return for in-person classes amid ruins as Palestinians fight to salvage education from systematic decimation.
(2025-12-20). US seizes second oil vessel off Venezuela coast, officials say. aljazeera.com The incident marks the second time in recent weeks that the US has seized an oil tanker near Venezuela.
(2025-12-20). 4 dead, 11 injured in Taiwan knife attack. aljazeera.com Taiwan ordered sweeping security reforms after a knife attack killed three people and injured 11 in Taipei.
aljazeera.com (2025-12-18). Faced with Trump's deportation push, US teachers fear leaving the classroom Estimates vary as to how many foreign-born teachers currently work in the US. But one 2019 report from George Mason University found that there were 857,200 immigrants among the country's 8.1 million teachers, in roles ranging from pre-school to university.
(2025-12-20). Ekitike and Isak help Liverpool squeeze past nine-man Tottenham. aljazeera.com Defending champions Liverpool win 2-1 at Tottenham to climb to fifth in the Premier League table.
(2025-12-20). Lebanon claims first phase of Hezbollah's disarmament close to complete. aljazeera.com The PM says the part of the plan on south of the Litani River is 'only days away from completion'.
(2025-12-20). Netanyahu finally announces October 7 inquiry: Why are Israelis furious? aljazeera.com The Israeli prime minister will be heading the inquiry into his own government's failings ahead of the Hamas-led attack.
(2025-12-20). Bangladesh holds state mourning, funeral for slain uprising activist. aljazeera.com The interim government said it had arrested seven people allegedly involved in the death of a Hindu man on Thursday.
(2025-12-20). UNSC condemns Rwanda, M23 rebels for offensive in eastern DR Congo. aljazeera.com Resolution urges Rwandan troops to withdraw from area of conflict that has killed hundreds, displaced tens of thousands.
(2025-12-20). "Moral courage" needed after Bondi shooting. aljazeera.com How do we talk about antisemitism after the Bondi shooting?
(2025-12-20). US pushes for ceasefire in Sudan's civil war as Kordofan violence escalates. aljazeera.com Top US diplomat warns all involved will face lasting condemnation as fighting escalates in strategic central region.
(2025-12-20). Tens of thousands flood streets for Bangladeshi activist's funeral. aljazeera.com Footage shows a massive crowd filling streets to mourn Sharif Osman Hadi, a leader of the 2024 student-led uprising.
(2025-12-20). AFCON moves to 4-year cycle as new Africa Nations League created. aljazeera.com On the eve of the 2025 AFCON, football's governing body in Africa create new four-year cycle and form a Nations League.
(2025-12-20). Tottenham vs Liverpool 1-2: Premier League — as it happened. aljazeera.com All our updates, with post-match reaction and interviews, following our text commentary stream of the EPL game.
(2025-12-20). 'Red Ribbon' vigil for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. aljazeera.com Red ribbons and Palestinian flags were seen at aLondon vigil calling for the Israeli release of imprisoned Palestinians.
(2025-12-20). AUDIO: Kathy Kelly on Gaza. worldbeyondwar.org We implore all international human rights, human aid organizations and all labor unions around the world that handle shipments of weapons and weapons parts to Israel to join us in demanding that the following actions be taken. #WorldBEYONDWar…
(2025-12-20). China strongly condemns U.S. plan to sell massive advanced weapons TaiwanÔºöFM. ecns.cn China firmly opposes and strongly condemns the U.S. plan to sell massive advanced weapons to China's Taiwan region, said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun at a press conference on Thursday.
(2025-12-20). China offers to resolve Thailand-Cambodia rift. ecns.cn Relatives grieve on Wednesday over the death of a Cambodian man killed in artillery shelling in Siem Reap Province near the border with Thailand.During Thursday's phone talks, both the Cambodian and Thai foreign ministers briefed Wang on the latest developments regarding their border conflict and expressed their willingness to de-escalate the situation and cease fire.
(2025-12-20). World's longest expressway tunnel to open to traffic in Xinjiang by year-end. ecns.cn The Tianshan Shengli Tunnel, the world's longest expressway tunnel, will be open to traffic by the end of this year, enabling a new shortcut linking southern and northern parts of Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region.
(2025-12-20). Nation to hit oil demand peak by 2030. ecns.cn Wu Mouyuan, vice-president of the institute, attributed the global resilience to sustained growth in oil consumption in emerging economies and steady demand for chemical feedstocks and aviation fuels.
(2025-12-20). More intl maritime cases land in China. ecns.cn China is strengthening its maritime legal framework, actively participating in the formulation of international rules and using multiple measures to position itself as a preferred venue for international maritime dispute resolution, the country's top court said.
(2025-12-20). Study reveals how viruses hijack host cells using hidden RNA messages. ecns.cn It acts like a molecular Trojan horse, produced by the virus during its active replication cycle.The virus then co-opts that machinery to churn out its own genetic material, accelerating the production of viral offspring.
(2025-12-20). Hainan FTP Customs acts to spur investment. ecns.cn An aerial drone photo taken on Nov 21 shows Yangpu International Container Port in Yangpu Economic Development Zone, Hainan province."With China's strong consumption fundamentals and policy support, we are fully committed to long-term investment in Hainan FTP," said Seth.
(2025-12-20). Taiwan opposition lawmakers announce plan to impeach Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te. ecns.cn Legislators from the Chinese Kuomintang party and Taiwan People's Party announced that they would propose the impeachment of Lai Ching-te, leader of China's Taiwan region, when holding a press conference in regional capital Taipei City on Friday.
(2025-12-20). TikTok signs joint venture deal to end U.S. ban threat. ecns.cn TikTok said Thursday it has signed a joint venture deal with investors that would allow the company to maintain operations in the United States and avoid a ban threat over its Chinese ownership.
(2025-12-20). TikTok signs deal to form new U.S. joint venture, investors include Oracle, Silver Lake. ecns.cn The logo of TikTok.Affiliates of certain existing ByteDance investors will hold 30.1 percent, while ByteDance will retain 19.9 percent, according to the memo."ÄÄ"ÄÄThe joint venture will be "majority owned by American investors, governed by a new seven-member majority-American board of directors, and subject to terms that protect Americans' data and U.S.
(2025-12-20). Drone delivery trial cuts Qiongzhou Strait logistics time to 20 minutes. ecns.cn A low-altitude drone logistics trial has been launched at Xuwen Port in south China's Guangdong Province, significantly shortening cross-strait delivery time between the povince and Hainan Island to about 20 minutes, CCTV News reported.
(2025-12-20). China's UN envoy calls on Japan to 'retract erroneous remarks'. ecns.cn "The International Day Against Colonialism in All Its Forms and Manifestations aims to urge the international community to remember the harm of colonialism, accelerate the ongoing decolonization process, and end colonialism in all its forms and manifestations," Fu said.
(2025-12-20). Asteroid named after Chinese space-tech expert Qi Faren. ecns.cn Qi Faren, a renowned Chinese space technology expert, speaking at an academic seminar held at Beijing Institute of Technology, December 6, 2025.An asteroid has been named after Qi Faren, a renowned Chinese space technology expert, according to the China Academy of Space Technology under the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.
(2025-12-20). Age limit for blood donors may be raised. ecns.cn Modern medical research shows that blood regenerates continuously, and a donation of 400 milliliters accounts for less than 10 percent of total blood volume, posing no harm to the body.
(2025-12-20). Visa-free measures spur surge in visitors. ecns.cn China saw some 40.6 million foreign nationals enter through its ports over the past year, a 27.2 percent year-on-year increase, according to the latest statistics released by the National Immigration Administration on Thursday.
(2025-12-20). China reports easing of flu transmission. ecns.cn Confirmed cases of flu in China have begun to decline but figures remain at a high level overall, according to data released by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention on Thursday.
(2025-12-20). Japan's central bank hikes interest rates to 30-year-high. ecns.cn The Bank of Japan on Friday hiked interest rates from 0.5% to 0.75%, marking the first increase since January and its highest level since 1995, according to Japan's public broadcaster NHK…
(2025-12-20). China, Ukraine hold political consultations between foreign ministries. ecns.cn China's Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Liu Bin (R) meets Serhiy Kyslytsya, first deputy minister of foreign affairs of Ukraine, in Beijing, December 18, 2025.China's Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Liu Bin held political consultations between the foreign ministries of China and Ukraine with Serhiy Kyslytsya, first deputy minister of foreign affairs of Ukraine, in Beijing on Thursday.
(2025-12-20). 'Avatar 3' makes grand debut in China, fueling box office boom. ecns.cn On the other hand, some critics noted the plot and scenes bear striking similarities to the previous installment. The 198-minute runtime also poses a challenge for moviegoers' patience and theater scheduling.
(2025-12-20). Thousands protest government across Israel over several flashpoints. haaretz.com Speakers denounced recent violence against Arabs and called for a state commission of inquiry into the failures of October 7, as well as for the return of the body of the last deceased hostage, Ran Gvili, which remains in Gaza…
(2025-12-20). Israeli brain drain worsens as about a quarter of math Ph.D.s live abroad. haaretz.com The stats bureau says 55,000 recipients of Israeli academic degrees were living overseas in 2024, with many young researchers spooked by the Gaza war and the government's judicial coup and budget cuts…
(2025-12-20). Report: U.S. will pay 20 percent of Gaza reconstruction, officials say. haaretz.com In a pitch to Arab countries, U.S. officials have proposed 'Project Sunrise,' a 20-year, $112.1 billion plan for Gaza's postwar reconstruction, with a commitment to fund 20 percent of the cost, the Wall Street Journal reported…
(2025-12-20). WSJ: U.S. will pay 20 percent of Gaza reconstruction, officials tell Qatar, UAE. haaretz.com In a pitch to Arab countries, U.S. officials have proposed 'Project Sunrise,' a 20-year, $112.1 billion plan for Gaza's postwar reconstruction, with a commitment to fund 20 percent of the cost, the Wall Street Journal reported…
(2025-12-20). Lebanon close to completing disarmament of Hezbollah south of Litani River, PM says. haaretz.com According to Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, Lebanon is ready to move to the second of five phases in a U.S.-backed roadmap to disarm the group. A report said the second phase would extend north to the Awali River, followed by Beirut and its suburbs, the Bekaa Valley, and finally the rest of the country, including northern Lebanon…
(2025-12-20). Israel police investigating after woman blows out Hannukkah candles in Tel Aviv mall. haaretz.com The police have not determined under which law such an act is illegal, but are considering pressing the charge of damage or desecration of a place of worship, which carries a maximum penalty of three years in jail…
(2025-12-20). Annual homicide rate hits all-time high of 302 as two are shot dead in northern Israel. haaretz.com Haaretz data shows that of the 244 homicides in the Arab community, only 15 percent of investigations have led to trials. Over the past year, police lacked a senior official overseeing crime-fighting efforts in the community, with an appointment made only last month…
(2025-12-20). live in a luxury favela run by a gang. tyranny, but I prefer it to so-called. haaretz.com Yishai Raz lives in a Rio favela under the dictatorial rule of a gang, but to him it's paradise. 'It's safe here, because anyone who misbehaves could find themselves locked in a water tank for a night'…
(2025-12-20). know how long be gone, but the last time. I feel like. haaretz.com This week at Ben-Gurion Airport: A digital nomad from a religious family defies society's expectations, and a family with four young daughters takes its first trip abroad together — and chaos ensues…
(2025-12-20). Report: Netanyahu to ask Trump to attack ballistic missile program in upcoming meeting. haaretz.com Iran's ballistic missiles and the number of missiles it can use in each attack reportedly remain Israel's key concern. In June, Israel and the United States used around 200 missile interceptors, which came at an estimated cost of nearly $1.5 billion…
(2025-12-20). Thousands of Israeli soccer fans wear anti-police shirts at Tel Aviv match after High Court ruling. haaretz.com The fans entered Bloomfield Stadium wearing protest shirts referring to the police and the Kahanist far-right movement as 'scum,' after a panel of three High Court justices ruled on Thursday that 'freedom of expression holds an elevated status, even at sporting events'…
(2025-12-20). Palestinian shot dead at close range by IDF in West Bank; IDF says he threw a brick. haaretz.com Footage shows 16-year-old Rayyan Mohammad Abu Mualla being shot at very close range after approaching IDF troops. In a separate incident, a 22-year-old was shot dead after allegedly throwing an explosive device…
(2025-12-20). Report: Man who helped fight Bondi terrorists identified as Israeli expat now in a coma. haaretz.com Israeli national Gefen Bitton reportedly helped Syrian-Australian Ahmed al Ahmed fight one of the shooters. Bitton's sister in Israel then called one of his friends, saying he had called her, 'said he's been shot twice, and then he hung up'…
(2025-12-20). UN General Assembly: Principled humanitarian action is under increasing pressure. icrc.org Delivered by Elyse Mosquini, Permanent Observer to the United Nations, at the 60th plenary meeting on strengthening of the coordination of humanitarian and disaster relief assistance of the United Nations, including special economic assistance.
(2025-12-20). IFRC—ICRC Joint Statement: Upholding and universalizing the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention. icrc.org Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention 22nd Meeting of States Parties, 1-5th December 2025 – Agenda Item 9.f.: Universalizing the Convention…
(2025-12-20). UN General Assembly: States must ensure that the protections afforded under IHL remain effective against the risks of ICT activities during armed conflict. icrc.org Statement delivered by Elyse Mosquini, Permanent Observer to the United Nations, at the High-level Meeting of the UN General Assembly on the overall review of the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS+20)…
(2025-12-20). ICRC-IFRC Joint Statement on National Implementation of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention. icrc.org Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention 22nd Meeting of States Parties, 1-5th December 2025…
(2025-12-20). Operation Hawkeye Strike: A U.S. Response to ISIS Attack. moderndiplomacy.eu NEWS BRIEF The United States launched large-scale retaliatory airstrikes against more than 70 Islamic State targets across central Syria on Friday, responding to a deadly attack on American personnel earlier in the week. The operation, supported by Jordanian fighter jets and involving U.S. F-15s, A-10s, Apache helicopters, and HIMARS rockets, was described by Defense Secretary …
(2025-12-20). Trump Bets on the Economy in Pivotal Midterm Campaign Push. moderndiplomacy.eu NEWS BRIEF President Donald Trump launched his midterm election campaign push in North Carolina on Friday, seeking to reframe the economy as a winning issue despite sagging consumer confidence and low approval ratings. In a sprawling speech, he touted stock market gains, cooling inflation, and a recent pharmaceutical pricing deal while deflecting blame for persistent …
(2025-12-20). A Giant That Doesn't Know How to Use Its Power. moderndiplomacy.eu This year, in the US-China trade war and the grand military parade, China demonstrated economic and military strength that forced the United States to back down. However, Beijing merely displayed its power; various parties discovered that this giant does not know how to wield it. The US paused its economic attacks on China, but the …
(2025-12-20). Magnet Diplomacy: China's Rare-Earth Exports Soar After Xi Deal. moderndiplomacy.eu NEWS BRIEF China's rare-earth magnet exports surged to 6,150 metric tons in November, the second-highest level on record and a 12% increase from October, following the U.S.-China agreement to streamline exports of the critical elements. The recovery comes after China restricted magnet exports in April during the trade war, bringing parts of the global supply …
(2025-12-20). How Washington is Meddling in Honduras's Chaotic Election. moderndiplomacy.eu NEWS BRIEF The United States has denied a visa to one senior Honduran electoral official and revoked the visa of another, accusing them of undermining democracy amid prolonged post-election chaos. The move adds direct diplomatic pressure as Honduras conducts a manual recount that could overturn a razor-thin preliminary result in a vote already clouded by …
(2025-12-20). Understanding Honduras' Post-Election Crisis. moderndiplomacy.eu Honduras' presidential election occurred on November 30, but nearly three weeks later, there is still no clear winner. The elections have faced issues with the vote counting process, allegations of fraud, and U. S. involvement. Conservative candidate Nasry Asfura of the National Party leads center-right candidate Salvador Nasralla of the Liberal Party by about 43,000 …
(2025-12-20). The eight key tasks of China's economic work in 2026. moderndiplomacy.eu The Central Economic Conference in Beijing in December 2025 identified eight key tasks for China's economic work in 2026. Several of these areas particularly interest me as a China expert. Among the most important tasks for China's economic work in 2026 is promoting a policy of supporting service exports through various measures to boost household …
(2025-12-20). Funding Pakistan's Stability: The World Bank's $700 Million Commitment. moderndiplomacy.eu NEWS BRIEF The World Bank has approved $700 million in financing for Pakistan's economic stability, advancing a controversial multi-year program that could total $1.35 billion. The funding arrives as Pakistan grapples with deep structural issues, from fragmented regulation to political capture of resources, and faces growing regional opposition, with India reportedly poised to challenge further …
(2025-12-20). Israeli attack on Gaza school kills five, most of them children. newarab.com 
Five Palestinians were killed in an Israeli attack on a school sheltering displaced people in The Palestinian civil emergency service said in a statement that most of the killed were A hospit…
(2025-12-20). Gaza Civil Defence recovers bodies of 94 in makeshift grave. newarab.com 
Gaza's Civil Defence announced on Saturday that it had recovered the bodies of 94 Palestinians who were buried in an improvised manner in Gaza City during Israel's war on the territory.
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| It said it transferred the bodies to proper cemeteries for official burial.
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| While Gaza's health ministry says close to 71,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israel's relentless, two-year offensive, thousands more bodies are believed to be buried beneath the rubble.
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| Many people were forced to bury their loved ones in temporary and mass graves, as well as in school and hospital co…
(2025-12-20). Trump aides push Gaza megacity plan as Israel bombs, razes homes. newarab.com 
A team led by US President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff have drafted a plan to turn Gaza into a futuristic, high-tech megacity, as Israel continues to bomb displaced Palestinians.
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| Dubbed "Project Sunrise", the 32-page proposal seen by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) includes images, charts, and cost tables outlining steps needed to be taken to rebuild the destroyed Palestinian territory, where a fragile ceasefire has held since early October in spite of ongoing, deadly Israeli violations.
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| The proposal was drafted in 45 days with input…
(2025-12-20). Trump doesn't rule out war with Venezuela. newarab.com 
(2025-12-20). Egypt lifts travel ban on activist Alaa Abdel Fattah. newarab.com 
Egypt's attorney general lifted a travel ban on prominent Egyptian-British activist A key figure in Egypt's 2011 uprising, the 44-year-old was His release followed years of advocacy efforts by his family, rights groups and the British government, with his…
(2025-12-20). Thousands attend funeral of killed Bangladesh student leader. newarab.com 
Tens of thousands of mourners gathered in the Huge crowds accompanied the funeral procession of
(2025-12-20). Achraf Hakimi is back for Morocco's AFCON 2025 campaign. newarab.com 
The current African Footballer of the Year is unlikely to start Sunday's tournament-opener against tiny Comoros, but Regragui said Hakimi could play if needed. | "He sacrificed himself for the past four or five weeks like no one else could have for his countr…
(2025-12-20). Iran, UK foreign ministers in rare direct contact amid tensions. newarab.com 
The ministry said that in Friday's call the ministers "stressed the need to continue consultations at various levels to strengthen mutual understanding and pursue issues of mutual interest". | A
(2025-12-20). Three Afghan migrants die of cold while trying to enter Iran. newarab.com 
Three "Three people who wanted to illegally cross the Iran-Afghanistan border have died because of the cold weather," the Afghan army official told AFP on condition of anonymity. | He added that a shepherd was also found dead in the mountainous area of Koh…
(2025-12-20). US, Russian officials to meet in Florida for more Ukraine talks. newarab.com 
US negotiators are set to meet Russian officials in Florida on Saturday for the The meeting follows US talks on Friday with Ukrainian and
(2025-12-20). Sudan PM to meet UN chief to discuss ceasefire, aid delivery. newarab.com 
(2025-12-20). Iraq top judge says armed factions to cooperate on weapons. newarab.com 
The head of However, the powerful "The resistance is a right, and its weapons will remain in the hands of its fighters," the group said in a statement. | The leaders of three other pro-Iran factions designated by Washington as terroris…
(2025-12-20). Israeli army block Jericho entrances, settlers attack villages. newarab.com 
The Israeli army blocked entrances to a city in the West Bank on Saturday, as multiple raids were reported across the occupied territory overnight.
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| Soldiers closed the iron gates installed at the entrances to Jericho, shutting all four access points leading into the town and causing hundreds of vehicles to get caught in traffic.
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| It wasn't immediately clear why the army blocked Jericho's entrances, but a total of 916 permanent and temporary Israeli checkpoints are currently set up across fragmented Palestinian communities in the West Bank, including more than 243 iron gates instal…
(2025-12-20). Sudan marks December revolution anniversary amid conflict. newarab.com 
Scores of Sudanese took to some of the country's main cities to mark the seventh anniversary of In scattered demonstrations in Khartoum and Port Sudan, Sudanese youth held signs which read: "Revolution, its fire is still alive", "Long live the resistance", and "The lion will stay proud in the streets of my country until its li…
(2025-12-20). Egypt calls for stronger Africa role on UN Security Council. newarab.com 
Egypt's President El-Sisi made the plea for a "more pluralistic" world order at a conference of the Russia-Africa partnership held in Cairo, which was attended by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and ministers from more than 50 African countries along with representatives from several African an…
(2025-12-20). Netanyahu to present 'Iran attack' plan to Trump during US visit. newarab.com 
Israeli officials will brief US President Donald Trump on "concerns" they have over a potentially renewed The Israeli officials are seeking to prepare attacks on Tehran should this be the case, US officials and a person familiar with the matter tol…
(2025-12-20). Turkey says crashed drone believed to be Russian-made. newarab.com 
Turkey said a drone that crashed on Friday in a rural area of northwestern Turkey following The unmanned aerial vehicle was discovered near the city of Izmit – around 30 kilometres (18 miles) south of the Black Sea, the private DHA news agency reported. | The drone "is believed to be of Russian-made Orlan-10 type used for reconnaissance and surveillance purposes according to initial findings," said an interior ministry statement…
(2025-12-20). UN demands Rwanda leave Congo, extends peacekeeping mission. newarab.com 
The UN Security Council has urged The UN's most powerful body on Friday condemned an offensive by the Rwanda-backed M23, demanded Rwanda stop supporting the rebels and withdraw its troops. The Security Council also renewed the peacekeepers' mandate,…
(2025-12-20). Lebanon 'days away' from fully disarming south of Litani: Salam. newarab.com 
The first phase of a government-backed, army plan to disarm south Lebanon is days away from completion before moving onto phase two, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said Saturday.
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| Lebanon remains under great US and Israeli pressure to speed up the disarmament process of Iran-backed Hezbollah, amid fears of another Israeli war.
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| "Prime Minister Salam affirmed that the first phase of the weapons consolidation plan related to the area south of the Litani River is only days away from completion," a statement from Salam's office said.
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| "The state is ready to move on to the s…
(2025-12-20). Dylan Riley & Robert Brenner: The Long Downturn and Its Political Results. newleftreview.org Responding to the wide-ranging debate sparked by their 'Seven Theses on American Politics' (NLR 138), Riley and Brenner expand the temporal frame of their analysis of capitalist stagnation as an endogenous feature, incurable by bubbles and bailouts—and rethink the nature of the 'political capitalism' that results.
(2025-12-20). Nan Z. Da: Literary Criticism in the Age of AI. newleftreview.org Critical analyses of AI usually adopt a stance of defensive humanism. Instead, Nan Da interrogates its mode of reasoning. How do LLMs make the step from data to inference—and what does it mean when they can no longer differentiate the two? Lessons from Emily Dickinson on linguistic interpretation's necessary freedoms—and responsibilities.
(2025-12-20). Gabriele Pedullà : Timpanaro's Materials. newleftreview.org Gabriele Pedullà on Tom Geue, Major Corrections. Intellectual biography of Sebastiano Timpanaro, who brought the tools of philology to bear in a keen-sighted historical materialism.
(2025-12-20). Martín Mosquera: The Meaning of Milei. newleftreview.org With Latin America in Trump's cross-hairs, a report from Buenos Aires on the social stalemate that allowed far-right firebrand Javier Milei to impose the harshest shock therapy in Argentina's history. Mosquera mobilizes the conceptual legacies of Gramsci, Trotsky, Otto Bauer and Angelo Tasca to identify the function of the region's highly successful new rights.
(2025-12-20). US Strikes Syria — Why Moscow's Strategic Bases and Interests Are Now at Risk. thinktank.pk In the evolving landscape of Syrian geopolitics, recent US military actions have reshaped alliances and power dynamics. The United States conducted extensive airstrikes targeting over 70 Islamic State positions in central Syria. These operations, involving advanced aircraft like F-15s, A-10s, and F-16s, along with precision munitions, were a direct response to a deadly ambush on …
(2025-12-20). Think Tank ISSI Marks Kenya's Independence: Spotlight on 'Engage Africa' Policy. thinktank.pk In a heartwarming display of bilateral friendship, Islamabad recently hosted a special event to celebrate Kenya's 62nd Jamhuri Day. Organized by the Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Pakistan Africa Institute for Development and Research …
(2025-12-20). Twice-weekly trash collection comes to North Philly in January. Here's what to know. whyy.org Have a question about Philly's neighborhoods or the systems that shape them? PlanPhilly reporters want to hear from you! Residents of North Philadelphia who find their household trash piling up throughout the week are in luck. | The trash truck will come more often in some areas starting Jan. 5, as Mayor Cherelle Parker's Carlton Williams, director of Philadelphia's Offi…
(2025-12-20). WHYY Newscast for Saturday 8:00 a.m. whyy.org The latest local headlines from WHYY…
(2025-12-20). Parent shares antisemitic voicemail allegedly left by Lower Gwynedd Elementary School principal. whyy.org This story originally appeared on A Montgomery County principal is on administrative leave and faces termination after allegedly making antisemitic remarks, Wissahickon School District officials said Friday. | Philip Leddy, principal of Lower Gwynedd Elementary School, reportedly made the comments after a phone call with a parent about a student issue. | District leaders say Leddy believed the call had ended when he made the remarks to another employee in the roo…
(2025-12-20). Trump's 'A+++++' economy collides with reality in a Pennsylvania city critical to the midterms. whyy.org When Idalia Bisbal moved to this Pennsylvania city synonymous with America's working class, she hoped for a cheaper, easier life than the one she was leaving behind in her hometown of New York City. | About three years later, she is deeply disappointed. | "It's worse than ever," the 67-year-old retiree, who relies on Social Security, said when asked about the economy. "The prices are high. Everything is going up. You can't afford food because you can't afford rent. Utilities are too high. Gas is too expensive. Everything is too expensive." | Bisbal was sipping an afternoon coffee at the Hamilton Family Restaurant…
(2025-12-20). 2025 in photos: A year of change, celebration and resolve in the Philadelphia region. whyy.org In 2025, WHYY News photographers chronicled a year of comings and goings. | Philadelphia welcomed the Vince Lombardi trophy for a second time after the Voters installed a new president in Washington and a new governor in Delaware. | Onlookers waved The U.S. Navy and Marine Corps celebrated their 250th an…
(2025-12-20). The tush push lives on: The past, present and uncertain future of the NFL's most controversial play. whyy.org From Philly and the Pa. suburbs to South Jersey and Delaware, what would you like WHYY News to cover? As its dominance fades and scrutiny grows, the future of the Eagles' most polarizing play is suddenly less certain. | The tush push, a play beloved by Philadelphia Eagles fans and hated by most everyone else, has been more than 90% successful in fourth-and-1 scenarios, according to That's one reason why NFL team owners tried to ban it after last season.
(2025-12-20). WHYY Newscast for Friday 7:00 p.m. whyy.org The latest local headlines from WHYY…
(2025-12-20). WHYY Newscast for Saturday 10:00 a.m. whyy.org The latest local headlines from WHYY…