(2025-12-19). Gaza Freedom Flotilla Coalition Joins Increase Of 2026 Sailings To Gaza. popularresistance.org The 18 national campaigns of the Gaza Freedom Flotilla coalition (Australia, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, International Campaign to Break the Siege, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, United States) met in Dublin, Ireland December 5-7, 2025 to plan for many more vessels to sail to challenge the illegal Israel naval blockade and the genocide of Gaza. | Israel continues to break the ceasefire in Gaza and has escalated the vicious attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinians and their land in the West Bank.
(2025-12-19). Israel nervous over biggest deal ever? Most advanced Elbit defenses be indirectly leveraged by Iran. hindustantimes.com Israel's defence establishment is on edge after the United Arab Emirates was revealed as the buyer behind a secret $2.3 billion arms deal with Israeli defence giant Elbit Systems — the largest in the company's history. The agreement, involving advanced laser-based J-MUSIC aircraft protection systems, has triggered concerns in Israel over erosion of its military edge, technology leakage, and China's potential access to sensitive Israeli defence technology through the UAE. With most details under publication ban, the deal is fuelling debate amid a post-Gaza surge in Israeli weapons exports.
(2025-12-19). Escalation in Southern Gaza: Airstrikes Target Khan Younis, Rafah Amidst Truce Violations. english.almanar.com.lb Israeli occupation forces intensified military aggression in southern Gaza Strip early Friday, launching a series of airstrikes on the cities of Khan Younis and Rafah. In Khan Younis, Israeli warplanes targeted the Bani Suheila area east of the city, with simultaneous machine-gun fire directed at eastern neighborhoods accompanied by artillery shelling. Additionally, Israeli naval vessels …
(2025-12-19). Israeli Settlers Briefly Enter Gaza and Raise Israeli Flag. news.antiwar.com
(2025-12-19). Trump helps genocide-denying Epstein islander Dershowitz tout book. thecanary.co The White House has told reporters that the US would be "lucky" to have Donald Trump stand for a third term as US president. A clear breach of the US constitution, which limits presidents to two terms. Trump and his chief of staff are both on record recognising that a third term is unconstitutional, though […] | By
(2025-12-19). Las nuevas fotos del caso Epstein que hicieron públicas los demócratas del Congreso de EE.UU. cubadebate.cu Un comité de la Cámara de Representantes del Congreso de EE.UU. publicó este jueves un lote con casi 70 fotografías de los legatarios del fallecido delincuente sexual Jeffrey Epstein. Se trata de la tercera publicación de este tipo de un total de más de 95.000 fotos que el Comité de Supervisión ha obtenido de las propiedades personales de Epstein.
(2025-12-19). Bill To Block Trump From Launching War With Venezuela Fails. popularresistance.org The House on Wednesday voted down a War Powers Resolution meant to block President Trump from launching a war with Venezuela without congressional authorization, as required by the Constitution. | The bill failed in a vote of 211-213, with nine representatives not voting. Just three Republicans joined Democrats in supporting the bill: Reps. Thomas Massie (R-KY), Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA), and Don Bacon (NE). One Democrat, Henry Cuellar (TX), voted against the legislation. | The legislation would have directed the president to remove "United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Venezuela that h…
(2025-12-19). Imperialist Realism, Functional Sovereignty, and the Structural Encirclement of Venezuela. orinocotribune.com 
By Diego Sequera and Ernesto Cazal — Dec 15, 2025 | The United States' National Security Strategy 2025, published last week but dated November, is a text that transcends the imprint of a technical manual or a diplomatic wish list. | It is, rather, a political act at a turning point: the first official US document that starts, albeit in a veiled way, from the somewhat less veiled awareness of US decline as a starting point. | However, the document attempts to manage the fragments of decline, to gather them around a doctrine for hemispheric reaffirmation where its "backyard" is proclaimed as the region of its…
(2025-12-19). President Maduro Says Trump's Actions Reveal True Intentions for Venezuela, Calls for Great Colombia Unity Amid More Killings at Sea (+Petro). orinocotribune.com Caracas ( "The truth has been revealed," Maduro said. These recent US actions and statements serve to demonstr…
(2025-12-19). Protest! Trump's War on Venezuelan NYC 5pm. iacenter.org Protest! Trump's War on Venezuela Venezuela belongs to the Venezuelan People Times Square (43 & Broadway) — Friday, Dec. 19, 5: 00 PM More info: cbalbertolovera@gmail.com…
(2025-12-19). Nobel Laureate María Corina Machado: Murder is an Act of Love. globalresearch.ca The Nobel Peace Prize laureate, María Corina Machado, leader of the opposition Vente Venezuela party, told Face the Nation on December 15 that "
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Venezuela Strongly Condemns US Threat Of Blockade. popularresistance.org In an escalation of the US empire's ongoing illegal sanctions on Venezuela, US President Donald Trump has announced a "full blockade" of the sovereign nation and its oil tanker fleet. He claimed the measure would remain in place until Venezuela "returns all the oil, land, and other assets" he alleged were previously stolen from the US. The announcement ignited an immediate response from the Venezuelan government, followed by all state institutions and international allies. | "Venezuela is completely surrounded by the largest Armada ever assembled in the History of South America," Trump wrote on social media this…
(2025-12-19). US Relied on Illegal Sanctions To Seize Venezuelan Oil Tanker. portside.org US Relied on Illegal Sanctions To Seize Venezuelan Oil Tanker |
(2025-12-19). Venezuela Defense Minister Vows To Defend the 'Homeland at Any Cost' After Trump's Blockade Threat. news.antiwar.com Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez has said Venezuela would defend the "homeland at any cost" in response to President Trump's declaration that he's imposing a blockade on all "sanctioned" tankers entering and leaving Venezuelan ports. "We say to the US government and its president that we are not intimidated by their crude and arrogant …
(2025-12-19). Kremlin eyes Latin American storm: Is Venezuela the next proxy flashpoint in US-Russia tensions. hindustantimes.com The Kremlin has confirmed preparations for fresh contacts with the United States as speculation grows over possible Russia-US talks on Ukraine in Miami. Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Peskov said Moscow is seeking updates on consultations between Washington, Europe and Ukraine. Peskov also dismissed reports that Turkey plans to return Russian S-400 missile systems, calling the claims unfounded. Addressing rising tensions around Venezuela, he warned the situation is "potentially very dangerous," reaffirming Russia's support for its ally Caracas and urging restraint to avoid unpredictable escala…
(2025-12-19). Royal Concerns: Crown Princess Mette-Marit's Health Journey. devdiscourse.com Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway is anticipated to undergo a lung transplant after her health has shown significant decline in recent months, the royal household announced on Friday. The princess, who is 52 years old and the wife of Crown Prince Haakon, has been living with pulmonary fibrosis since 2018, a condition that causes lung tissue scarring and diminishes oxygen intake.
(2025-12-19). EconoScope | Hainan FTP takes major step forward in China's opening-up policy. ecns.cn Hainan Free Trade Port has taken a major step in China's opening-up as islandwide special customs operations come into effect, fully implementing a policy framework featuring zero tariffs, low tax rates, a simplified tax system, and freer trade and investment.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). From rules-based order to rule by fear: America's democratic unravelling. independentaustralia.net 
(2025-12-19). Tata Power Secures Rs 2,000 Crore via Non-Convertible Debentures. devdiscourse.com Tata Power announced the successful raising of Rs 2,000 crore through non-convertible debentures (NCDs) issued on a private placement basis. On Friday, the leading integrated power company noted that the NCDs were allocated using multiple yield allotment method prescribed by BSE and Sebi.
(2025-12-19). Dr Ambedkar's Critique of Islam and Muslims: A Scholarly Analysis. ummid.com This paper undertakes a critical re-evaluation of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's seminal critique of Indian Muslims as articulated in his 1940 treatise, Pakistan or the Partition of India.
(2025-12-19). US sanctions 'flagrant attack' on global justice: ICC. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 19 (MNA) — The International Criminal Court (ICC) has condemned the United States' recent sanctions on two of its judges.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Russian Citizen Charged in Israel-Iran Espionage Saga. devdiscourse.com In a dramatic development, Israel has formally charged a Russian citizen with espionage, accusing the individual of collaborating with Iranian intelligence agencies. According to Israel's police and internal security agency, the accused was involved in photographing Israeli ports and infrastructure, a move aimed at boosting Tehran's strategic knowledge and capabilities.
(2025-12-19). The Housing Crisis Is a Democracy Crisis. portside.org The Housing Crisis Is a Democracy Crisis |
(2025-12-19). Is Iran Joining "Muslim NATO" ? Saudi—Pakistan Pact and Shifting World Order. globalresearch.ca It has been reported that Iran is interested in joining the "Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement" between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Ali Larijani, the Iranian Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, recently
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Two months on, ceasefire feels like siege. electronicintifada.net For most families, "returning home" means pitching tents beside the ruins of their houses.
(2025-12-19). After Tukey and Lebanon, Pope Leo XIV may visit Algeria next. newarab.com 
(2025-12-19). Jeffrey Sachs: European Security Includes Russia. consortiumnews.com In an open letter in Berliner Zeitung, the author tells the German chancellor that peace in Ukraine cannot be achieved by pretending that Russia's security concerns do not exist. By Jeffrey D. Sachs Berliner Zeitung CN at 30 Chancellor Merz, You…
(2025-12-19). Lebanese army agrees to document Hezbollah disarmament. newarab.com 
The head of Israel and
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). The China-Egypt Partnership: A Blueprint for South-South Cooperation. moderndiplomacy.eu We know that Egypt and China belong to the developing countries of the Global South, and this will strengthen the strategic partnership between them. This partnership has achieved unprecedented successes under the leadership of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping. This partnership will witness even greater success over the next …
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Japan's security moves draw sharp criticism. ecns.cn People attend a protest in front of the Japanese prime minister's official residence in Tokyo, Japan, Nov 21, 2025."Japan must learn from its defeat 80 years ago and recognize that challenging the universal pursuit for peace is a blatant act leading only to its self-destruction," it said.
(2025-12-19). Geneva hosts Tehran convention to protect Caspian Sea. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 19 (MNA) — The meeting of Special Working Group on setting up Secretariat of Tehran Convention for Protection of Caspian Sea Environment was held in Geneva on Dec. 18-19 with the participation of envoys of 5 Caspian Sea littoral states.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Number of Indian-Americans in Zohran Mamdani's Transition Team. ummid.com New York City Mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has included a number of Indian Americans in his transition team.
(2025-12-19). Iran in the past week: Key developments at home and abroad. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 19 (MNA) — Here is a concise weekly digest of the most significant political, economic, cultural, and social developments in Iran, published every Friday by Mehr News Agency.
(2025-12-19). Trump's Cuts To Infrastructure Projects Harm Working People. popularresistance.org You're going to have the American dream back," promised then-candidate Donald Trump on the campaign trail in 2024. But nearly a year into the President's second term, his administration is failing to live up to campaign promises. In fact, the Trump administration's actions are pushing the dream of economic security and dignity even farther out of reach for working families across the U.S. | Countless headlines have rightfully covered executive orders stripping a million federal workers of union rights. They've detailed legislation that defunds healthcare and nutrition programs while funneling money to massive cor…
(2025-12-19). 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).
(2025-12-19). England's Fight for Ashes Magic: A Test of Resolve. devdiscourse.com On the brink of a series loss in the Ashes, England's spin bowling coach Jeetan Patel has called for a magical performance on day four of the third Test against Australia to sway the match in their favor.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). China's future network lab shrinks data transfer from 699 days to 1.6 hours. ecns.cn Data that would take 699 days to transmit over the traditional Internet was transferred in just 1.6 hours on a testbed for China's future networks.
(2025-12-19). Pushing Muslim Political Consciousness Back to Pre-Partition Mindset. ummid.com The Indian Muslims are currently not just back to square one — they are, in truth, below zero, because whatever political capital the community had before the Partition has eroded further.
(2025-12-19). CSIR UGC NET December 2025 Admit Card: Link, Steps to Download. ummid.com CSIR UGC NET December 2025: The National Testing Agency (NTA) is releasing on its official website 'csirnet.nta.nic.in' the Admit Card and Hall Tickets of the candidates who have registered for the CSIR UGC NET December 2025.
(2025-12-19). MeitY issues warning over fake DigiLocker app. ummid.com The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued a warning against a fake DigiLocker app found circulating online.
(2025-12-19). Nicholas Mulder: Interludes of Abundance. newleftreview.org Nicholas Mulder on Arnaud Orain, Le monde confisqué. Reading of the current neo-mercantilist lurch as a return to the norm of long-run capitalist history.
(2025-12-19). Famed Kennedy arts center to be renamed 'Trump-Kennedy Center'. geo.tv 
This photo taken on August 16, 2014, shows building of John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC. — AFPThe White House announced on Thursday that Washington's iconic John F Kennedy arts centre is to be renamed the "Trump-Kennedy Center" after President Donald…
(2025-12-19). Make Viral Reaction-Style Clips via Free AI Video Editor. ummid.com Reaction videos have gained massive popularity on social media such as Tik Tok and YouTube because of their ability to capture real-time reactions and feelings that viewers can associate with.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). UN must abandon two-state solution and adopt HKOPS. onlineopinion.com.au Antonio Guterres repeats a peace formula almost everyone admits has failed, while ignoring a Saudi-backed alternative that could break the deadlock.
(2025-12-19). US Navy test-launches Iranian drone clone. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 19 (MNA) — The US Navy has test-launched an Iranian drone clone LUCAS drone from the helideck of USS Santa Barbara over the past few days, CENTCOM has said.
(2025-12-19). A People's Orientation To The Praxis Of People(S)-Centered Human Rights. popularresistance.org Since the launch of the North-South Project for People(s)-Centered Human Rights (North South Project) last year, the framework has been steadily increasing in the global lexicon. The framework itself was produced by Black Alliance for Peace (BAP) founder, Ajamu Baraka, who is also the Director of the North South Project, as a direct result of his observations and practice as a long-time human rights activist. Baraka's observations and practice was systematized into what he refers to as, "the Black radical human rights tradition that is people(s)-centered – hence People(s)-Centered Human Rights (PCHRs).
(2025-12-19). UN elects former Iraqi President Salih as head of refugee agency. newarab.com 
The The 193-member world body elected the 65-year-old Kurdish politician as the
(2025-12-19). Tidbits-Dec. 18- Reader Comments: Trump Declares 'A Chicken in Every Pot'; US Murder Spree in Caribbean; Trump Chief of Staff Tells All; Youth Movement for Digital Justice Is Spreading Across Europe; Verso End of Year Sale; Cartoons; and More… portside.org Tidbits-Dec. 18- Reader Comments: Trump Declares 'A Chicken in Every Pot'; US Murder Spree in Caribbean; Trump Chief of Staff Tells All; Youth Movement for Digital Justice Is Spreading Across Europe; Verso End of Year Sale; Cartoons; and More… |
(2025-12-19). China Unveils Earth System Forecasting Strategy for 2025—2035. ecns.cn CMA Deputy Director Bi Baogui said at a press briefing in Beijing that the initiative addresses both national disaster prevention and climate change adaptation needs.
(2025-12-19). China's year-end box office surpasses 4 billion yuan. ecns.cn As of 10: 45 p.m. on Thursday, China's year-end box office (November 28—December 31) has exceeded 4 billion yuan (about $570 million), according to online platform data.
(2025-12-19). Merz panics as Zelensky doubts, fears Russia will test NATO soon amid Article 5-like shield drama. hindustantimes.com German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has warned of a possible direct NATO—Russia confrontation if Moscow violates a future Ukraine ceasefire. Speaking to German media, Merz said NATO troops could enforce security guarantees and occupy a demilitarised zone, as Ukraine discusses NATO-style protections with the U.S., raising fears of wider war in Europe. Watch the full video to know more.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Tehran-Moscow's regional and global concerns. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 19 (MNA) — Iranian foreign minister's visit to Moscow signals a new push to align Tehran and Russia on key bilateral projects and pressing regional and global crises, from the North-South corridor to international security.
(2025-12-19). Hainan FTP opens fast lane. ecns.cn A foreign vessel carrying 179,000 metric tons of petrochemical raw materials berths at Yangpu Port in Danzhou, Hainan province, on Thursday, following the official launch of the island-wide special customs operations in the Hainan Free Trade Port.
(2025-12-19). Maharashtra: Vacancies in Colleges, Universities to be filled soon. ummid.com The Maharashtra government said the vacant posts, including that of Lecturers and Assistant Professors, will be filled soon.
(2025-12-19). Saudi Arabia, other GCC countries ban Dhurandhar. ummid.com Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries have banned the star studded Bollywood film, Dhurandhar, for its anti-Pakistan narrative.
(2025-12-19). Israel's actions deliberate strategy to occupy Syria. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 19 (MNA) — Iranian ambassador to the United Nations has condemned the Israeli illegal aggression against the town of Beit Jan in Syria, saying the Israeli actions are part of a deliberate strategy to consolidate the occupation of Syria.
(2025-12-19). Bangladesh student leader Sharif Osman Hadi dies in Singapore hospital. geo.tv 
An undated photo of Bangladesh's Inqilab Moncho spokesperson and Dhaka-8 candidate Sharif Osman Hadi. — Facebook/@osmanhadiofficialInterim govt announces mourning, special prayers nationwide.Police launch manhunt, offer reward for suspects' arrest.Muhammad Yunus says attack aims to…
(2025-12-19). 'Gun reforms a good start but…': What Australia should do after Bondi beach attack Maya Gomez. hindustantimes.com Days after the Bondi Beach Massacre, HT's Aayesha Varma and Legal Scholar Maya Gomez analyse matters of the mind. What does a shooter think? What do survivors go through? How can a nation heal itself after a tragedy like this? Tune in to this episode of HT Podcast.
(2025-12-19). Japan reaffirms no-nukes stance after official's remarks spark debate. moderndiplomacy.eu Japan reiterated its long-standing commitment to its three non-nuclear principles after media reports said a senior security official had suggested the country should acquire nuclear weapons to deter potential threats. The remarks, attributed to an unnamed official from Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's office, came amid concerns about a worsening regional security environment. Chief Cabinet Secretary …
(2025-12-19). Taiwan's political deadlock and the prospect of new elections. moderndiplomacy.eu Taiwan's government is locked in a constitutional and political standoff after the opposition-controlled parliament passed amendments to a local government spending law that the administration says are fiscally irresponsible and were drafted without consultation. President Lai Ching-te's government has refused to enact the changes, prompting the opposition to accuse him of ignoring the will of …
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Russia's beast roars: First S-500 regiment deployed – NATO hypersonic, stealth jets & SATs tremble. hindustantimes.com Russia has declared its first regiment equipped with the advanced S-500 Prometheus missile system combat-ready, signaling a major boost to its upper-tier air and missile defense capabilities. Announced by Russian Defence Minister Andrei Leousov on December 7, the deployment strengthens Moscow's strategic defenses and showcases its commitment to modernizing its military amid rising global tensions. The S-500, capable of targeting aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic threats in near space, positions Russia at the forefront of next-generation missile defense technology.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). 5 killed in US strikes on 2 boats in eastern Pacific. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 19 (MNA) — The US military said on Thursday that it had conducted two more strikes against boats it said were smuggling drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing five people.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Syria, Kurdish forces race to salvage integration deal. moderndiplomacy.eu Syrian, Kurdish and U.S. officials are intensifying talks ahead of a year-end deadline to show progress on a stalled agreement to integrate Kurdish-led forces into the Syrian state. The deal, first outlined in a March 10 accord, was meant to see the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) merge into national military and state institutions. Recent …
(2025-12-19). Sudan: CNN and Lighthouse Reports publish evidence of SAF ethnically motivated atrocities. moderndiplomacy.eu CNN has reported that the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and allied militias have carried out a campaign of ethnically targeted killings in Sudan's Gezira (also known as Al Jazirah) state, including dumping bodies into canals and concealing mass graves. CNN, working with Lighthouse Reports, documented a months-long SAF-led campaign against "Kanabi" farming communities (largely non‚ÄëArab …
(2025-12-19). US Citizens Deported By Zionist State After A Week Of Detention. popularresistance.org New York-based Irene Cho and Boston-based Trudi Frost, who were arrested by Israeli forces last Friday, remain in custody at the Givon prison after Israeli courts have summarily denied all their appeals while refusing to examine the evidence proving they have committed no offense. They are expected to be deported later tonight from Ben Gurion airport. | Cho and Frost were arrested on Friday, December 12, in the West Bank village of al-Mughayyer while staying with the Abu Hamam family, which is threatened with forced displacement by military and settler violence.
(2025-12-19). Trump administration reviews Nvidia AI chip sales to China in sharp policy shift. moderndiplomacy.eu The Trump administration has launched an inter-agency review that could clear the first-ever sales to China of Nvidia's H200 artificial intelligence chips, the company's second-most powerful offering. The Commerce Department has sent export license applications to the State, Energy and Defense Departments, triggering a 30-day review process, though the final decision rests with President Donald …
(2025-12-19). Dominican Republic wastes renewable energy while fossil fuel thermoelectric plants operate above legal limits. globalvoices.org 
'Thermal plants operate with comfort margins above international standards, [causing] inefficient dispatch and forcing renewables curtailment'Global Voices Feature photo via Canva Pro. | By Zahiris Priscila Francisco Martínez | The Dominican Republic has experienced accelerated growth in renewable energy production over the past few years. National Energy Commission (CNE) Executive Director Edward Veras confirmed
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Iran's foreign goods transit hits 13.5m tons in 8 mos: IRICA. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 19 (MNA) — The Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration (IRICA) put the value of the country's foreign transit of goods in the first eight months of the current Iranian calendar year (started Mar. 21, 2025) at 13.5 million tons.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Palestine out of 2025 FIFA Arab World Cup, but wins hearts. ummid.com Palestine National Football Team's dream to play Semi Finals of the 2025 FIFA Arab World Cup ended after it got defeated by Saudi Arabia Thursday.
(2025-12-19). Veil Controversy Sparks Political Firestorm in India. devdiscourse.com Iltija Mufti, PDP leader, has filed a police complaint demanding an FIR against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for an incident where he removed a Muslim woman's 'naqab' in public. This act, deemed disrespectful by many, has ignited political tensions and calls for accountability.
(2025-12-19). Lionel Messi's Tour and India's Sporting Ecosystem. ummid.com Lionel Messi's India Tour has exposed glaring gaps in event management, administrative preparedness, priorities in sports development, and even political optics.
(2025-12-19). 'Throwback to McCarthyism': Trump DOJ Moves To Treat Leftist Dissent As Criminal. portside.org 'Throwback to McCarthyism': Trump DOJ Moves To Treat Leftist Dissent As Criminal |
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Morocco bests Jordan to lift 2025 FIFA Arab Cup. ummid.com Atlas Lions, Morocco, Thursday defeated Jordan to lift the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup.
(2025-12-19). 5.7 magnitude quake strikes Afghanistan's Hindu Kush region. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 19 (MNA) — A strong 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan's Hindu Kush region early Friday, according to the German Research Center for Geosciences.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Bondi terrorism delivers dive in journalism standards. independentaustralia.net 
(2025-12-19). This Week's Most Popular Articles. globalresearch.ca 
(2025-12-19). Bidding Drama: Josh Inglis' IPL Availability Sparks Debate. devdiscourse.com In a surprising turn of events, Australian cricketer Josh Inglis might have secured more IPL appearances than anticipated. Initially penciled in for a mere four matches due to his upcoming marriage, Inglis' trajectory shifted after the Lucknow Super Giants won him over with a lucrative bid at the recent players' auction.
(2025-12-19). How to Use Gold Loan Calculator to Plan Repayment Smartly? ummid.com A Gold Loan calculator is an online tool that estimates the loan amount you can obtain against your pledged gold based on its weight, purity, and the prevailing gold rate.
(2025-12-19). British Baker Richard Hart Insults a Nation—And Shows What He Doesn't Get About Mexican Bread. lataco.com There is a clear difference between cultural colonization and cultural appreciation and it's not that hard to get right if you come with an open heart and unbounded humility.
(2025-12-19). Burkina Faso Suspends Participation In Francophone Judicial Body. popularresistance.org In yet another move away from Franàßafrique, Burkina Faso's High Council of the Judiciary (CSM) announced on December 15 its decision to suspend participation in the Francophone Network of Judicial Councils, known by its French acronym, RFCMJ. | Headquartered in Quebec, a French-speaking part of Canada, the organization seeks to "develop common standards" in judiciaries of Francophone countries. Over half of its 23 members are former colonies in Africa. | Burkina Faso's CSM was one of the five judicial councils in RFCMJ's current bureau, alongside Guinea, Lebanon, Quebec, and France, which presides over it.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Explore: Importance of Hira and other Makkah mountains. ummid.com Makkah is home to a group of mountains of deep religious and symbolic significance, most notably Mount Hira, which houses the Cave of Hira (Ghar e Hira), where revelation first descended.
(2025-12-19). IAEA Partners with Princess Máxima Center to Strengthen Childhood Cancer Care. devdiscourse.com The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has officially designated the Princess Máxima Center for Paediatric Oncology in the Netherlands as a new IAEA Collaborating Centre, marking a major step toward improving childhood cancer treatment worldwide. The announcement was made in Utrecht during a ceremony attended by Her Majesty Queen Máxima and IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). EU opts for joint borrowing to bankroll Ukraine, shelves risky Russian asset plan. moderndiplomacy.eu European Union leaders agreed to raise 90 billion euros through joint borrowing backed by the EU budget to support Ukraine's defence over the next two years, setting aside a controversial plan to use frozen Russian sovereign assets. The bloc holds around 210 billion euros in Russian assets, most of them in Belgium, but legal, financial …
(2025-12-19). One word sums up climate politics in 2025: Greenlash. grist.org 
(2025-12-19). Fluoridated faith: How weak science and vested interests sold mass medication. independentaustralia.net 
(2025-12-19). Five Reasons Why the Newly Declared Ethiopia-India Strategic Partnership is So Important. globalresearch.ca Ethiopia and India
(2025-12-19). 'Trump' card played: Did US quietly kill Ukraine's NATO bid? Zelensky publicly calls out Biden. hindustantimes.com Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that former U.S. President Joe Biden told him Ukraine would not be allowed to join NATO, even before the war with Russia began. Zelensky defended Ukraine's constitutional commitment to NATO and said only the Ukrainian people—not Russia or foreign powers—can decide the country's security path. Watch the full video to know more!
(2025-12-19). Home Heroes Head and Carey Dominate in Adelaide's Heat. devdiscourse.com Travis Head and Alex Carey staged a formidable partnership at the Adelaide Oval on Friday, significantly diminishing England's Ashes aspirations. Their collaboration blossomed through the scorching afternoon, culminating in an unbeaten 142 for Head and a steadfast 52 for Carey.
(2025-12-19). When Scripture Enters the Courtroom: Manusmriti, Criminal Justice and India's Constitutional Crisis. ummid.com India's constitutional framework rests on a foundational premise: Criminal Justice must be governed by enacted law and constitutional values, not by religious scripture or moral theology.
(2025-12-19). Shipyard Unionism: A Novel of Triumphs and Defeats — a Review of Goliath at Sunset by Jonathan Bandow. portside.org Shipyard Unionism: A Novel of Triumphs and Defeats — a Review of Goliath at Sunset by Jonathan Bandow |
(2025-12-19). Alaska's $44 billion bet on natural gas. grist.org 
(2025-12-19). US Navy test-launches Iranian drone clone "Lucas" en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 19 (MNA) — The US Navy has test-launched an Iranian drone clone, LUCAS, from the helideck of USS Santa Barbara over the past few days.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). EIB Lends ‚Ǩ20M to Aisti to Scale Bio-Based Acoustic Tile Production in Finland. devdiscourse.com The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a €20 million venture-debt loan with Aisti, a Finnish manufacturer of bio-based suspended ceiling panels, to help the company double its production capacity and accelerate the shift to healthier, recyclable construction materials across Europe. The investment supports EU climate goals, rural development, and the circular economy.
(2025-12-19). EU approves $90bln loan for Ukraine; Russian assets spared. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 19 (MNA) — European Union leaders agreed on Friday to provide a massive interest-free loan to Ukraine to meet its military and economic needs for the next two years…
(2025-12-19). Massacre of the Jewish community by Islamist terrorists on Bondi Beach. onlineopinion.com.au Sixteen Australians are dead. Antisemitism surged for years, warnings were issued, a plan was delivered, and government inaction followed. The massacre did not come without notice.
(2025-12-19). Sweida violence reignites as Druze forces clash with HTS. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 19 (MNA) — Intense fighting has erupted in Syria's southern province of Sweida between Druze forces and armed elements affiliated with Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and its allies, leaving several individuals wounded, report say.
(2025-12-19). CARTOONS: Donald Trump is not in the White House. independentaustralia.net 
(2025-12-19). BBC finally mentions hunger strike — but still ignores reason for it. thecanary.co The BBC News website has finally broken its obstinate silence about the hunger strike by anti-genocide protesters — but only as two of the political prisoners ended their strike and still ignoring almost everything else of relevance. Mentions hunger strike obscurely The BBC's article about the decision of Jon Cink and Umer Khalid to […] | By
(2025-12-19). Greece's Coast Guard Rescues Hundreds Amid Rising Migration Pressures. devdiscourse.com In a dramatic rescue operation, Greece's Coast Guard has successfully saved around 545 migrants from a fishing boat off Gavdos Island, marking one of the largest groups to reach Greece in recent months. The operation took place roughly 16 nautical miles from Gavdos, and the migrants were subsequently brought safely to Agia Galini on Crete.
(2025-12-19). Finnish PM apologizes over posts by lawmakers. ecns.cn Chinese netizens have also begun similar petitions, demanding that the politicians involved publicly acknowledge the gesture as racist and formally apologize to the Asian community.
(2025-12-19). Messi's Kolkata visit ends in chaos; organiser arrested, fans demand refunds. ummid.com Football legend and Argentina National Football Team Captain Lionel Messi's Kolkata visit Saturday ended in chaos forcing the Police to arrest the organiser while disappointed fans are demanding refunds.
(2025-12-19). Selected Articles: The Truth About the COVID Scamdemic is Slowly Going Mainstream. globalresearch.ca 
By On December 10,
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Ex-NASCAR driver Greg Biffle among seven dead in plane crash. geo.tv 
NASCAR driver Greg Biffle is seen during a Daytona 500 media day in February 2022. — Reuters/FileRetired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle was killed in a plane crash along with his wife, two children and three others at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina on Thursday morning,…
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). UAE exposed as secret buyer in huge arms deal with Israel. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 19 (MNA) — The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been identified as the undisclosed buyer behind a $ 2.3 billion contract signed last month by Israeli arms maker Elbit Systems, a report states.
(2025-12-19). The Australian Israel Lobby Is Flat-Out Saying They Want A Ban On Criticism Of Israel. caitlinjohnstone.com.au Australians everywhere should be made acutely aware that the Australian Israel lobby is now explicitly advocating a ban on criticism of the state of Israel. | Not just hate speech against Jews. Criticism of a foreign state. They're coming right out and saying it. | During a
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-19). Why the Thai—Cambodian Dispute is a Strategic Problem. moderndiplomacy.eu The Thai-Cambodian tension is almost uniformly treated as a manageable bilateral issue, serious but contained, sensitive but familiar. This is a mistake. The real implication of the dispute is not the danger it poses of immediate escalation but rather what it indicates of the future security order of Southeast Asia and of ASEAN's decreasing strategic …
(2025-12-19). A Harvard Scholar's Ouster Exposes a Crisis of Institutional Integrity. portside.org A Harvard Scholar's Ouster Exposes a Crisis of Institutional Integrity |
(2025-12-19). 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).
(2025-12-19). 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…
(2025-12-19). Bangladesh on edge after student leader's killing sparks unrest. moderndiplomacy.eu Bangladesh deployed police and paramilitary forces across Dhaka and other cities after violent overnight protests erupted over the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a 32-year-old student leader and election candidate. Hadi, a spokesperson for the Inquilab Mancha platform, was shot by masked assailants in Dhaka last week while launching his campaign and later died in …
(2025-12-19). What India Pays for Empty Parliament and Vanity Nationalism? ummid.com India pours public funds into Parliament and state assemblies as if they are engines of accountability, but what we receive in return is political theatre, ritual nationalism, walkouts, orchestrated chaos, and a government that uses the legislature as a rubber stamp.
(2025-12-19). Owen Hatherley: Architecture of the Future? newleftreview.org The built legacy of the Soviet Bloc is undergoing a dramatic reappraisal, from crumbling concrete brutalism to Instagrammable socmod chic. Hatherley's critical survey of a growing body of work in this area—examining modernist constructions from Vilnius to Tashkent—asks the question the new studies largely avoid: what, if anything, makes this architecture socialist?
(2025-12-19). SPL 2025/26: Al Nassr Top Goal Scorer So Far – Courtesy Felix, Ronaldo. ummid.com Saudi FC Al Nassr is the top goal scorer in the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League (SPL) season so far, courtesy its Skipper Cristiano Ronaldo and attacking Midfielder/Forward Joao Felix.
(2025-12-19). Violence erupts in Bangladesh after wounded youth leader dies. geo.tv 
(2025-12-19). Chinese citizen journalist seeking asylum in US faces deportation. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). Palestinian journalist Sami al-Sai alleges torture, sexual violence in Israeli prison. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). Dang Initiative Can Open Up an Exciting New Path for Progress of Oilseed Farmers in India. asia-pacificresearch.com
(2025-12-19). Man storms Infomax newsroom during live broadcast in North Macedonia. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council Medvedev: Europe has not abandoned its plans to seize Russian assets, but is "temporarily keeping silent" on the issue. english.almanar.com.lb
(2025-12-19). 127 African women journalists write to jailed Burundian Sandra Muhoza as she returns to court. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). Israeli occupation forces raid Kafar Qaddum east of Qalqiya in West Bank: Palestinian sources. english.almanar.com.lb
(2025-12-19). Egyptian PM visits Beirut, meets top Lebanese officials. english.almanar.com.lb
(2025-12-19). Israeli enemy naval gunboats opened fire on fishermen's boats off the coast south of Khan Younis. english.almanar.com.lb
(2025-12-19). Julian Assange Files Criminal Complaint in Sweden Against Nobel Foundation for 'Misappropriation and Facilitation of War Crimes'. orinocotribune.com
(2025-12-19). CPJ joins 32 groups urging UK leader Starmer to secure Jimmy Lai's release during China trade talks. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). New year display unveiled at Times Square. ecns.cn
(2025-12-19). CPJ: Trump's BBC lawsuit is yet another attack on US media freedom. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). CPJ, partners call for the immediate release of Yemeni journalist Naseh Shaker. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). Bangladesh arrests veteran journalist Anis Alamgir on terrorism charges. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). Myanmar journalist Sut Ring Pan serving 13 years in prison on incitement, terrorism charges. CPJ staff
(2025-12-19). Conozca la tasa de cambio oficial del Banco Central para el viernes 19 diciembre de 2025. cubadebate.cu En correspondencia con las transformaciones cambiarias anunciadas por el Banco Central de Cuba, les compartimos la tasa de cambio oficial para el viernes 19 de diciembre.
(2025-12-19). 2026: Año del Centenario del Comandante en Jefe Fidel Castro Ruz. cubadebate.cu A propuesta del Primer Secretario del Partido y Presidente de la República de Cuba, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, se aprobó nombrar al año 2026 como "Año del Centenario del Comandante en Jefe Fidel Castro Ruz", en homenaje al líder histórico de la Revolución cubana y como ratificación de la unidad de sus ideas en la Revolución Cubana.
(2025-12-19). La especial relación entre Fidel Castro y monseñor Cesare Zacchi. cubadebate.cu La relación entre Fidel Castro y monseñor Cesare Zacchi constituyó un singular caso de diálogo y entendimiento entre el Estado cubano, la Santa Sede y la Iglesia católica durante años complejos en sus vínculos. Monseñor Cesare Zacchi fue un prelado de la Iglesia católica que desarrolló una destacada labor diplomática como representante del Vaticano, especialmente en Cuba.
(2025-12-19). Díaz-Canel en la Asamblea Nacional: La Patria no se rinde. cubadebate.cu Reiteró que es mucho lo que nos toca enfrentar y resolver en lo interno, comenzando por la determinante esfera económica. "Para analizar la situación actual del país hemos sido realistas y autocríticos, pero también hemos reafirmado la confianza en la capacidad de resistencia y victoria del pueblo cubano. La Patria no se rinde".
(2025-12-19). New government strategy 'doesn't do enough to protect girls under 16'. thecanary.co Keir Starmer's government has pledged the "largest crackdown" ever on violence against women and girls (VAWG). But its plan currently seems light on details. And as Children's Commissioner Rachel de Souza says, she's still: deeply concerned that too much of this strategy will only protect girls who are 16 or over. More action to combat […] | By
(2025-12-19). Lula anuncia veto a la Ley que rebaja penas de condenados por el golpe de Estado. cubadebate.cu El presidente de Brasil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, confirmó este jueves su intención de vetar el proyecto de Ley de Sentencias, conocido como Ley de Dosimetría, aprobado por el Congreso Nacional, que prevé una reducción de penas para los condenados por el intento golpista del 8 de enero de 2023, cuando fueron atacados los tres poderes del Estado brasileño.
(2025-12-19). 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.
(2025-12-18). Tech for Genocide: Palantir's Role in the Pager Attacks. orinocotribune.com By Al-Akhbar's Lebanon Desk — Dec 15, 2025 | "We've never supplied our products to enemies. We proudly support the US government. I am proud that we are supporting Israel in every way we can." — Palantir co-founder Alex Karp | Palantir Technologies has been involved in the Israeli military's regional operations from Gaza to Lebanon and beyond, according to revelations in a new biography of CEO Alex Karp. In The Philosopher in the Valley: Alex Karp, Palantir, and the Rise of the Surveillance State, New York Times journalist Michael Steinberger details how the US-based company's software played a direct r…
(2025-12-18). Gaza, the United Nations, and the Crisis of Global Conscience. thinktank.pk The United Nations General Assembly's overwhelming passage of a resolution demanding unrestricted humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip, protection of United Nations facilities, and compliance with international law marks a moment of rare moral clarity in an increasingly fractured world. Supported by 139 countries, with only 12 voting against and 19 abstaining, the resolution reflects …
(2025-12-18). Egypt says gas deal with Israel is 'purely commercial'. aljazeera.com Natural gas agreement worth approximately $35bn comes amid frayed relations over Israel's genocidal war in Gaza.
(2025-12-18). Three Palestinians Die in Gaza Due to Israeli Attacks, Unexploded Ordnance, and Harsh Weather. news.antiwar.com At least three Palestinians have died in Gaza due to three different causes, according to reports from the Strip on Thursday, as the civilian population is still facing Israeli attacks while living in rubble and tents amid harsh weather and under continued Israeli aid restrictions. According to Middle East Eye, a one-month-old infant, Saeed Asaeed …
(2025-12-18). Cold weather claims more lives in besieged Gaza. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — Gaza health ministry announced on Thursday that one person was killed and 13 others were wounded in the past 24 hours as Israeli attacks and the worsening humanitarian situation continue to devastate the Strip.
(2025-12-18). Netanyahu is exploiting the Bondi Beach massacre to build support for the Gaza genocide and is fueling antisemitism in the process. mondoweiss.net 
Benjamin Netanyahu is blaming the attack at Bondi Beach on Australia's support for Palestinian statehood. He conflates Jewish safety with Zionism to garner support for Israel, but in doing so, he enlists all Jews as agents of Palestinian oppression.
(2025-12-18). Video: Qatar PM urges Gaza aid surge in talks with US Secretary of State. aljazeera.com Qatar's Prime Minister held talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington.
(2025-12-18). Trump says he brought peace to the Middle East for the first time in 3000 years. albawaba.com ALBAWABA – As he addressed the nation at a White House conference, US President Donald Trump sparked debate after claiming that he brought peace to the Middle East for the first time in 3000 years due to "ending" the two-year war in Gaza. Trump said, "I have ended the war in Gaza, bringing for the first time in 3000 years peace in the Middle East and secured the release of the hostages both living and dead."His statement received mixed reactions among social media users who argued that the US President didn't bring peace to the Middle East as Israel's occupation of Palestine and its aggression on Gaza is still on…
(2025-12-18). US imposes sanctions on two more ICC judges for Israel probe. newarab.com 
The United States on Thursday imposed sanctions on two more judges of the International Criminal Court after they rejected an attempt by Israel to end a war crimes probe in Gaza. | Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who had already ordered sanctions on judges and prosecutors in the case, explicitly linked the new measures to a vote Monday in which the two judges sided with the majority and upheld arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister "We will…
(2025-12-18). Gaza eye care crisis leaves thousands on brink of blindness. newarab.com 
Thousands of Palestinians in Gaza with eye diseases are at risk blindness as hospitals are damaged and vital medicines remain unavailable due to a healthcare crisis triggered by According to a report published on Thursday by The New Arab's Arabic-language sister site al-Araby al-Jadeed, Israeli attacks on Gaza's main eye care facility – the Eye Hospital in
(2025-12-18). UK police arrest four people for pro-Palestine 'Intifada' calls. aljazeera.com Arrests made at protests supporting imprisoned Palestine Action hunger strikers, as Gaza death toll surpasses 70,000.
(2025-12-18). Headlines for December 18, 2025. democracynow.org House Rejects Resolutions Seeking Congressional Approval for Boat Strikes or Attack on Venezuela, Senate Overwhelmingly Approves Record $901 Billion Military Spending Bill, Israeli Army Shells Gaza Residential Area in Latest Violation of U.S.-Brokered Ceasefire, House Passes Healthcare Bill That Does Not Address Skyrocketing Insurance Premiums, House Advances Bill That Would Criminalize Gender-Affirming Care for Minors, Trump Touts Economic Record in Primetime Address as U.S. Unemployment Ticks Higher, Dan Bongino Announces Resignation as FBI's Second-in-Command, Pentagon Opens Formal Inquiry into Sen. Mark…
(2025-12-18). Why is the US claiming it owns Venezuelan oil and land? aljazeera.com US President Donald Trump has said the US owns rights to Venezuelan oil and land.
(2025-12-18). Julian Assange: Sweden Broke Own Laws with Nobel Prize to Venezuela's Machado. dissidentvoice.org By awarding its peace prize to Trump's favorite Venezuelan opposition figure, pro-war coup plotter Maria Corina Machado, the Nobel Committee contravened the principles enshrined in its founding documents, as well as Swedish law, Julian Assange alleged in an explosive brief reviewed by The Grayzone. The Swedish government violated its own laws by awarding the Nobel …
(2025-12-18). Congress Squanders Last Chance to Block Venezuela War Before Going on Vacation. theintercept.com 
The House voted down a pair of measures to halt strikes on alleged drug boats and on Venezuelan land on Wednesday, hours after President Donald Trump announced a blockade on the South American country. | Democrats sponsoring the measures were able to peel off only two Republicans on the first vote and three on the second as the GOP rallied around the White House. | On Tuesday, Trump announced a partial blockade — considered an act of war in international law — against Venezuela after weeks of threatening military action. | "If we intensify hostilities in Venezuela, we have no idea what we're walkin…
(2025-12-18). US plan to turn Venezuela into its colony will never happen. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has said that the US plan to turn his country into its colony 'will simply never happen'.
(2025-12-18). Marines know we don't kill unarmed survivors for a reason. responsiblestatecraft.org As the Trump Administration continues to kill so-called Venezuelan "narco terrorists" through "non-international armed conflict" (whatever that means), it is clear it is doing so without Congressional authorization and in defiance of international law. Perhaps worse, through these actions, the administration is demonstrating wanton disregard for centuries of Western battlefield precedent, customs, and traditions that righteously seek to preserve as many lives during war as possible.Continuing down this path will not only be a stain on our national honor that will spread like spilled ink, but will also ensure…
(2025-12-18). PDF of December 18 print issue. workers.org 
Download the PDF Venezuela int'l conference U.S. delegates defy 'no-fly zone' Young workers reject capitalism Billionaire media barons New book: 'China Changes Everything' Philly hospital defends trans patients Tribute to Miss Major Griffin-Gracy Disability rights and justice Trump's racism and historic stagflation Starbucks workers expand strike Philly solidarity with Venezuela . . . |
(2025-12-18). Trump aide Miller claims Venezuelan oil belongs to US. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — Stephen Miller, a top aide to United States President Donald Trump, has claimed that Venezuela's oil belongs to Washington, describing the nationalization of the South American country's petroleum industry as "theft".
(2025-12-18). Maduro calls global protests, accuses US pf oil piracy in Caribbean sea clash; 'Will defeat…'. hindustantimes.com Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has called for global protests against the United States, accusing Washington of stealing Venezuelan oil in the Caribbean Sea. Speaking at the Constituent Congress of the Working Class in Caracas, Maduro urged port workers, oil and gas workers, and the merchant marine worldwide to mobilise against what he described as US "piracy." He stressed national unity against foreign interference and claimed Venezuela has been resisting a months-long campaign of pressure, including military deployments near its coast. Maduro also criticised Chile's president-elect José Antonio Kast, escal…
(2025-12-18). Nuevo buque solidario del ALBA-TCP llega a Cuba. cubadebate.cu Un nuevo buque con ayuda solidaria enviado por el Gobierno de Venezuela y la Alianza Bolivariana para los Pueblos de Nuestra América (ALBA-TCP) arribó este miércoles 17 de diciembre al puerto Guillermón Moncada, en Santiago de Cuba, para apoyar en la recuperación de la isla tras el impacto del huracán Melissa.
(2025-12-18). Cuba respalda cumplimiento de derechos humanos en Venezuela. radiohc.cu El embajador Rodolfo Benítez Verson, representante permanente de Cuba ante la Oficina de las Naciones Unidas en Ginebra y otras Organizaciones Internacionales en Suiza, respaldó la institucionalidad y soberanía de Venezuela. | El diplomático intervino este martes en el diálogo interactivo sobre la actualización oral del Alto Comisionado respecto a la situación de los derechos humanos en la República Bolivariana de Venezuela. | Benítez Verson afirmó que Cuba rechaza la imposición de mecanismos punitivos, selectivos y parcializados en materia de derechos humanos, que desconocen las instituciones nacionales y se con…
(2025-12-18). Ajay Gupta Seeks Bail in Devastating Goa Nightclub Fire Case. devdiscourse.com Ajay Gupta, a co-owner of the nightclub 'Birch by Romeo Lane' in Goa, has submitted a bail application following his arrest related to a catastrophic fire that killed 25 people earlier this month.
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko presents Coale with 'pragmatic proposals' relevant to U.S. interests. eng.belta.by The United States should engage in a dialogue based on pragmatism, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said an interview with the U.S. media company Newsmax.
(2025-12-18). "Divorced from Reality" : Economist Dean Baker Fact-Checks Trump's Primetime Speech. democracynow.org 
President Trump praised the state of the U.S. economy in a primetime address Wednesday evening, even though new government statistics show the nation's unemployment rate is at a new four-year high of 4.6%. Dean Baker, senior economist at the Center for Economic and Policy Research, says Trump's aides should be "wondering about the man's sanity" after Wednesday's speech. "This is utterly divorced from reality." Though Trump blames former President Biden for the poor economy, Baker notes that Trump had inherited an "incredibly strong economy by almost every meas…
(2025-12-18). EXCLUSIVE: Feinstein tells Starmer, Lammy their 'hero' Mandela would be outraged by them. thecanary.co Former African National Congress (ANC) MP and Mandela government minister turned investigative journalist and UK political campaigner Andrew Feinstein, now based in London, knew Nelson Mandela well. And he has written to Keir Starmer and 'justice' secretary David Lammy to tell them that Mandela, whom they both claim as their hero, would be "shocked and […] | By
(2025-12-18). Beginning December 18th, Cuba will have a new exchange rate. radiohc.cu Radio Havana Cuba / Cubadebate bring you the text of the special appearance of the President of the Central Bank of Cuba, Juana Lilia Delgado Portal. She appeared on CubaVision Wednesday evening following the 8 o'clock prime time newscast. | As the Government of the Republic has been reporting, the Central Bank of Cuba has been working to create the conditions to begin transformations in the foreign exchange market, based on principles of gradualism and timeliness. | Currently, different exchange rates coexist in the Cuban economy, which generates distortions, encourages informality, and hinders the banking and t…
(2025-12-18). Mourners pay tribute to 10-year-old killed in Bondi massacre. aljazeera.com People mourn the attack's youngest victim, a 10-year-old girl named Matilda, whose funeral was held on Thursday.
(2025-12-18). White House says Kennedy Center board has voted to rename after Trump. aljazeera.com Relatives of the late President John F Kennedy have expressed outrage at the proposal to rename the arts centre.
(2025-12-18). ACLU Will Challenge Trump Administration's Unconstitutional Effort to Ban Gender-Affirming Care for Transgender Youth. commondreams.org Today, the American Civil Liberties Union condemned the Trump administration's
(2025-12-18). New Somalia e-visa security flaw puts personal data of thousands at risk. aljazeera.com Al Jazeera finds Somalia's electronic visa website lacks proper security, allowing anyone to download sensitive data.
(2025-12-18). For the fourth consecutive year, Russia weaponises Christmas. independentaustralia.net 
(2025-12-18). Flare and fighting in Albanian parliament dispute. aljazeera.com There were chaotic scenes in Albania's parliament during a vote for the country's next human rights ombudsman.
(2025-12-18). The Poacher's Trail: Part 2. newarab.com 
For 15 months, The New Arab, in cooperation with Bridges Investigations, explored the shadowy world of Maltese bird hunters. | We uncovered how Maltese hunters, frustrated by local laws, were travelling to Egypt to slaughter migratory birds in vast numbers. Their hunting activities have been described as an environmental disaster, and a threat to the thousands of migratory birds who rely on Egyptian wetlands. | We went undercover in Fayoum. Followed the smuggling routes from Egypt's lakes to Maltese homes. And saw how Europe's conservation efforts collapse when its citizens pull the trigger abroad. | This is more…
(2025-12-18). 10 Israeli police officers injured in Haredi riots in Quds. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — Israeli media in occupied Palestinian territories reported on Thursday that 10 Israeli police officers were injured during violent riots involving members of the ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) community in occupied al-Quds.
(2025-12-18). Why Ukraine's Economy Hinges on the EU's Frozen Russian Assets Loan. moderndiplomacy.eu European Union leaders are weighing proposals to use proceeds from immobilised Russian sovereign assets, most of which are held in Belgium, to support Ukraine's financial needs in the coming years through what has become known as the "reparations loan". The plan has run into resistance from Belgium, which wants other EU member states to share …
(2025-12-18). Striking Barista On Starbucks' Endgame. popularresistance.org On November 13, I was one of hundreds of Starbucks baristas who walked out of our stores on an open-ended unfair labor practice strike. Last week, our numbers grew to more than 3,800 workers participating across some 130 cities as we marked a month on strike, the longest national work stoppage in Starbucks' history. | Striking members of our union, Starbucks Workers United, have staged a sit-in outside the Empire State Building; held demonstrations outside of the company's corporate offices in Newport Beach, Calif., and even picketed at a distribution center in York, Pa., —all to demand that Starbucks settl…
(2025-12-18). Saudi Arabia proposes to host WTO meeting in 2028. newarab.com 
The request was on the agenda of a WTO meeting being held in Banglades…
(2025-12-18). The Bondi beach discourse is a weapon of mass distraction. thecanary.co The shooting at Bondi Beach was horrific. Innocent people were killed. Families were shattered. A community was traumatised. None of that is in question. What is in question is what happened next — not in Australia, but in the political and media afterlife of the attack. Because long before the facts were established, the narrative […] | By
(2025-12-18). 1st Edition of Imam Khomeini World Award in Tehran. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — The closing ceremony of the First Edition of Imam Khomeini World Award was held at International Conferences Center on Wednesday night in the presence of President Masoud Pezeshkian.
(2025-12-18). Angry farmers block Brussels roads with tractors over Mercosur trade deal. aljazeera.com Thousands protest as EU leaders clash over pact farmers fear will flood Europe with cheaper South American goods.
(2025-12-18). Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small acquitted of all child abuse charges. whyy.org From Camden and Cherry Hill to Trenton and the Jersey Shore, what about life in New Jersey do you want WHYY News to cover? A jury has acquitted Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr. of all charges in his child abuse trial after more than two days of deliberations. | "There's not one day that I turned around and there wasn't a lot of people here supporting us," the mayor said. "Today, I thank God — who's first in my life [mdash…
(2025-12-18). Texas Democrats Will Run In Every Race During Midterms. newsone.com 
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko explains Belarus' approach to migrant workers. eng.belta.by "This is why I am reluctant to invite anyone to come here," the president said. On the other hand, the country needs workforce. But how can the state control these processes?
(2025-12-18). EU deadlocked on plan to turn Russian assets into Ukraine aid. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — EU leaders are locked in a dispute over whether to use Russia's frozen assets to finance Ukraine's defense, with Belgium and Italy warning of legal risks.
(2025-12-18). US Southern Command Blows Up Another Boat in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. news.antiwar.com US Southern Command announced on Wednesday night that it bombed another boat in the Eastern Pacific Ocean as the Trump administration continues conducting extra-judicial executions at sea in the waters of Latin America. As usual, SOUTHCOM claimed without providing any evidence that the vessel was "engaged in narco-trafficking operations." The command said that the strike …
(2025-12-18). Pakistan U19 Squad for Zimbabwe Tour — Tri-Series World Cup 2026. thinktank.pk Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially unveiled the 15-member Pakistan U19 squad for the upcoming tri-nation ODI series in Zimbabwe and the highly anticipated ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026. Talented all-rounder Farhan Yousaf will continue to lead the side, with Usman Khan retaining his role as vice-captain. The announcement comes as Pakistan U19 gear up …
(2025-12-18). Warm-to-cool conditions for Christmas, New Year period. sanews.gov.za Warm-to-cool conditions for Christmas, New Year period | The South African Weather Service (SAWS) expects partly cloudy and warm-to-cool conditions across much of the country during the Christmas and the New Year period. | Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are anticipated mainly over the central and eastern parts of South Africa. | "Thunderstorm activity is expected to occur primarily in the afternoons, although periods of increased moisture may result in morning showers in some areas. | "Much of the rainfall during this period will be associated with afternoon and evening thundershowers, which ma…
(2025-12-18). GOP Centrists Rock the House, Force ACA Subsidy Showdown. scheerpost.com By Joshua Scheer Four centrist Republican members of the U.S. House broke with Speaker Mike Johnson and joined Democrats in signing a discharge petition that will compel a floor vote on extending pandemic‚Äëera Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits for three more years. The enhanced subsidies, which help reduce monthly insurance costs for millions …
(2025-12-18). 18,000 Delawareans getting early holiday gift — $18.8 million in medical debt relief. whyy.org 
(2025-12-18). U.S. Inflation Likely Hit 18-Month High in November as Tariffs Bite. moderndiplomacy.eu U.S. consumer prices likely rose at their fastest annual pace in about a year and a half in November, underscoring mounting affordability pressures for American households that economists partly attribute to higher import tariffs. A Reuters survey of economists predicts the Consumer Price Index increased 3.1% year-on-year in November, which would mark the largest rise …
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko: The Belarusian People's Congress stabilizes our society. eng.belta.by "I will not live forever. I am an outgoing president. I cannot stay the president forever. And I don't have to," the head of state said.
(2025-12-18). PSG: Intercontinental Cup Football Champion. radiohc.cu Havana, December 17 (RHC) — Paris Saint-Germain of France defeated Flamengo of Brazil on penalties today in the final of the Intercontinental Cup. | The 90 minutes of regulation time ended in a 1-1 draw, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of Georgia scoring for the European champions in the 38th minute, and Jorginho of Italy and Brazil equalizing for the Copa Libertadores winners in the 62nd minute from the penalty spot. | With nothing significant happening in extra time, the match went to penalties, where Flamengo's performance was disastrous, converting only one of their five attempts. | PSG thus secured their fir…
(2025-12-18). What is the bond market and how does it work? thecanary.co We're told that any government trying to do something as unhinged as, oh I don't know, ending homelessness or preventing juvenile crime will offend the mighty bond markets who shall rain down fire and brimstone reminiscent of a scene from Genesis. If we want to avoid the wrath of god, we have therefore to live […] | By
(2025-12-18). Pezeshkian's visit to South Khorasan Province. en.mehrnews.com BIRJAND, Dec. 18 (MNA) — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian traveled to South Khorasan Province on Thursday morning in continuation of his trips to the provinces across Iran.
(2025-12-18). India's Mohun Bagan banned by AFC for refusal to play football game in Iran. aljazeera.com AFC have sanctioned India's Mohun Bagan for refusing to visit Iran for their Asian Champions League match in September.
(2025-12-18). Smokescreen in Ukraine? Moscow hosts Iran as nuclear clock ticks, Araghchi drops bombshell for Trump. hindustantimes.com Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and MGIMO University Rector Anatoli Torkunov discussed expanding academic and strategic cooperation between Russia and Iran, including joint master's programmes, research initiatives and student exchanges. Araghchi highlighted shared positions on global issues, opposition to US hegemony, and appreciation for Russia's support during the recent conflict with Israel. Talks also covered energy cooperation, gas swaps, countering US sanctions, and regional security in the South Caucasus through the proposed 3+3 mechanism. Araghchi reiterated Iran's stance against nuclear weapons,…
(2025-12-18). Australian government pledges to keep slashing spending. wsws.org Treasurer Jim Chalmers outlined billions of dollars in cuts to government programs and declared that there would be more "difficult" decisions to come.
(2025-12-18). Beijing condemns $11.1 billion US arms deal with Taiwan. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — China has condemned the US arms deal with Taiwan, which includes HIMARS launchers, howitzers, drones, anti-tank missiles, and advanced defense systems, calling it a violation of the "one China" principle.
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko: Demilitarized zone might be a stumbling block in Ukraine talks. eng.belta.by The establishment of a demilitarized zone in Ukraine can become a stumbling block in Ukraine peace talks, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said during a Q&A session following his Address to the Belarusian People and Parliament…
(2025-12-18). Beautiful sceneries of late autumn in Alandareh Forest Park. en.mehrnews.com GORGAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — Alangdare Forest Park is one of the most beautiful forests in northern Iran, located in Golestan Province, 5 km southwest of Gorgan city. The autumn in the Forest Park appeared later than normal this year.
(2025-12-18). Kunshan setting up world-class industrial hubs. ecns.cn On the production floor of Visionox, one of the world's leading suppliers of advanced displays based in Kunshan, Jiangsu province, a line of technicians in cleanroom suits closely monitor a sheet of deep-purple glass the size of a door.
(2025-12-18). SADC Summit approves deployment of Panel of Elders. sanews.gov.za SADC Summit approves deployment of Panel of Elders | The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has approved the deployment of a Panel of Elders and a Mediation Reference Group to Madagascar to support efforts aimed at restoring political stability, constitutional order and democratic governance. ⚪ This was announced in a communiqué issued following the virtual Extraordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government held on Wednesday. ⚪ The summit received a report from the Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, Malawian President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika,…
(2025-12-18). China accelerates push for autonomous driving. ecns.cn China's autonomous driving industry has entered a new phase of accelerated development, as the country approved two cars with level-3 autonomous driving capabilities, marking the first time that such vehicles have been cleared by the national regulator as authorized products nearly ready for mass adoption.
(2025-12-18). Meet Tania Nemer, Fired Immigration Judge Suing Trump Admin Amid Purge of Immigration Court System. democracynow.org 
Former immigration judge Tania Nemer, who was fired in February, is now suing the Trump administration, alleging that she was discriminated against despite strong performance reviews. Nemer is one of about 100 immigration judges who have been fired or reassigned since Trump took office. The system is notoriously backlogged, with more than 3 million cases pending. "I was pulled away in the middle of the hearing," she says. | Nemer filed a discrimination complaint with the Department of Justice, which officials dismissed, citing Article II of the Constitution on presidential powers. "I've be…
(2025-12-18). Germany to take in more than 500 stranded Afghans from Pakistan. newarab.com 
The Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt told the RND media network
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko: Reopening of U.S. embassy in Belarus was discussed during bilateral talks. eng.belta.by The Belarus-U.S. negotiations discussed the resumption of the U.S. | Embassy work in Minsk, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said | while answering questions following his Address to the Belarusian people…
(2025-12-18). New White House plaques attack Biden, Obama and Bush. aljazeera.com Plaques installed in US President Donald Trump's 'Presidential Walk of Fame' at the White House attack his predecessors.
(2025-12-18). Trump, Immigration, Trans Rights: The Stories That Shaped 2025. aclu.org 
This year, the ACLU's most-read stories reflected the pressing issues shaping life in America: challenges to civil liberties, attacks on marginalized communities, and the ongoing struggle to hold those in power accountable. | From Trump's unprecedented moves to expand domestic military operations and cut funding to public media, to the targeting of immigrant families and activists like Mahmoud Khalil, these stories reveal a society grappling with the consequences of abuse of power, political retaliation, and discrimination. Our work explaining Trump's executive orders undermining protections for transgender pe…
(2025-12-18). As Zohran Mamdani prepares to enter City Hall he faces pressure from an unlikely source — Palestine activists. scheerpost.com By Michael Arria for Mondoweiss Last month, activists gathered outside New York City's Park East Synagogue to protest an event hosted by Nefesh B'Nefesh, an organization that assists Jewish individuals in relocating to Israel. The protest, which was organized by the Palestinian Assembly for Liberation (PAL Awda), was condemned as antisemitic by pro-Israel groups and leaders over chants of …
(2025-12-18). Dubai RTA's groundbreaking drone initiative transforms traffic signal maintenance. geo.tv 
Drones clean traffic signals during a pilot operation launched by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority as part of efforts to ensure the effective use of drone technology in maintenance work. —X/rta_dubaiThe Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai has rolled out a pilot…
(2025-12-18). Jimmy Lai told eight lies in court: local media in HKSAR. ecns.cn On December 15, a panel of three judges delivered a verdict in the conspiracy case involving Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, founder of Next Digital, and three companies formerly affiliated with the now-defunct Apple Daily.
(2025-12-18). N.J., Del. and Pa. join lawsuit seeking Trump administration release funds for EV chargers. whyy.org This story is part of the From the Poconos to the Jersey Shore to the mouth of the Delaware Bay, what do you want to know about climate change? What would you like us to cover? | New Jersey, Delaware and Pennsylvania are
(2025-12-18). Trump's Response to Reiner's Death Shows the Cruelty at the Core of His Politics. truthout.org There are moments when death demands humility, compassion, and moral restraint. Donald Trump, more often than not, answers such moments with cruelty. His reaction to the deaths of actor and filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, is not merely a morally repugnant expression of indecency; it is emblematic of an age in which ruthless brutality has become a political style and… |
(2025-12-18). WHYY Newscast for Thursday 2:00 p.m. whyy.org The latest local headlines from WHYY…
(2025-12-18). Hainan starts special customs operations across entire island. ecns.cn China's Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) launched island-wide special customs operations Thursday.
(2025-12-18). Turkey seeks to return Russian S-400s to unlock US F-35 deal. newarab.com 
(2025-12-18). Lebanese judge to question Beirut port blast suspect in Bulgaria. newarab.com 
The head of Lebanon's probe into the 2020 Beirut port blast is set to question on Thursday the owner of the ship that carried the ammonium nitrate that ignited the explosion, a Lebanese judicial official has told AFP. | Judge Tarek Bitar is due to arrive in Bulgaria to do this, after the eastern European country denied Beirut's latest request for the extradition of G…
(2025-12-18). Telegraph coughs up "grossly misleading" coverage of Islamophobia conference. thecanary.co Scotland Against Criminalising Communities (SACC) has issued a statement condemning coverage by the Telegraph of an Islamophobia conference in Glasgow as "grossly misleading." SACC, Decolonial International Network and Islamic Human Rights Network co-organised the conference. It took place at the Ark in Glasgow's Southside on Sunday 14 December. Speakers included lawyer Aamer Anwar, MEND CEO […] | By
(2025-12-18). Zelensky suggests American security guarantees instead of NATO membership. infobrics.org Kiev also seeks security guarantees from European partners, Canada, and Japan.
(2025-12-18). Palestinians collect belongings before West Bank homes demolition. tribune.com.pk 
Dozens of residents from the West Bank's emptied Nur Shams refugee camp returned on Wednesday to retrieve belongings ahead of the Israeli military's demolition of 25 residential buildings there. | Early this year, the military launched an ongoing operation it said was aimed at rooting out Palestinian armed groups from camps in the northern occupied West Bank — including Nur Shams, Tulkarem and Jenin. | Loading furniture, children's toys and even a window frame onto small trucks, Palestinian residents hurried Wednesday to gather as much as they could under the watchful eye of Israeli soldiers, according t…
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko: There will be no electricity price spikes in Belarus. eng.belta.by "There will be no spikes here. And I want to warn the government. Don't even open the door to those energy specialists who come to you and say: 'We can't make ends meet, the cost is higher than the price.' Well, then work to make the cost lower," he assured.
(2025-12-18). Justin Yifu Lin: Stronger policy measures likely next year to address bottlenecks in building China's unified national market. ecns.cn Justin Yifu Lin, dean of the Institute of New Structural Economics at Peking University, told China Perspective in a recent exclusive interview that China is expected to step up policy efforts next year to address key bottlenecks in building a unified national market.
(2025-12-18). Hydrogen plays part in global warming: study. tribune.com.pk 
Hydrogen has long been touted as a possible solution to the climate crisis, but it could also be a small part of the problem, a study warned on Wednesday. | Advocates of hydrogen hope it can be produced and used on a large scale in transport and heavy industries in the future, providing a clean alternative to fossil fuels as it only emits water vapours. | But the research published in the journal Nature found that hydrogen has played a part in rising temperatures by helping methane, a potent greenhouse gas, stay longer in the atmosphere. | Emissions of hydrogen rose between 1990 and 2020, contributing a fracti…
(2025-12-18). Israel-Lebanon talks: Everything you need to know. aljazeera.com Representatives from Israel and Lebanon, as well as US, French, UN officials to meet for second meeting on ceasefire.
(2025-12-18). UEFA sanctions Maccabi Tel Aviv over racist, anti-Arab chants. newarab.com 
Israeli football club UEFA's control, ethics, and disciplinary body (CEDB) also fined the club ‚Ǩ20,000 ($23,456) over the fans' behaviour. | The one-game ban on the club selling away tickets for their next UEFA competition is suspended for a probationary period of two years. | Video posted to…
(2025-12-18). Experts: Lai not freedom fighter, but a pawn of the West. ecns.cn Jimmy Lai Chee-ying is not a fighter for democracy or press freedom, but a pawn of Western countries, experts and political heavyweights in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region said on Wednesday, emphasizing that freedom of speech remains intact and vibrant in the city.
(2025-12-18). West Virginia Judge Says Charter Schools Violate State Constitution. dissidentvoice.org In December 2025, Judge Jennifer Bailey of the 8th Judicial Circuit Court in West Virginia ruled that the creation of the state's charter schools are unconstitutional because they were authorized by the West Virginia Professional Charter School Board (PCSB) instead of being authorized by "the constitutionally mandated consent of a majority of affected county voters." …
(2025-12-18). Letter Carriers Union in Madison January 17, 2026: Shut Down Hunger Fundraiser. wibailoutpeople.org 
(2025-12-18). Managers' responsibilities in the thoughts of Imam Ali (AS). en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — The crisis of public trust in management and governance institutions has become one of the main challenges of the contemporary world.
(2025-12-18). "It is common for awards to be bought," says Zhalay Sarhadi. tribune.com.pk 
Amid the glitter of Pakistan's award season, actor Zhalay Sarhadi has sparked fresh debate with her candid remarks about the credibility of awards shows in the country. | Appearing on the popular talk show Gup Shap with Vasay Chaudhary, Zhalay — known for her roles in Uraan, Digest Writer, and the more recently Shirin Farhad — voiced her skepticism about how awards are won and distributed in the industry. | "I've learned one thing: if you want something — praise, recognition, awards — you have to ask for it," she said. "People even beg for awards, and some actors pay for them. I don't h…
(2025-12-18). Hezbollah Condemns Desecration of the Holy Quran by US Citizen. english.almanar.com.lb Hezbollah's Islamic Resistance in Lebanon issued a statement on Thursday strongly condemning the shocking act committed by a US individual who desecrated the Holy Quran in a provocative scene rife with hatred and incitement. The group described the act as a blatant assault on the holiest symbols of Islam and on the religious and humanitarian …
(2025-12-18). Front pages of Iran's English dailies on December 18. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — Here are the front pages of Iran's English language dailies on Thursday, December 18.
(2025-12-18). From beachfronts to breakthroughs. ecns.cn For many Chinese people, Sanya in South China's Hainan province is the ideal destination for coastal tourism. However, for many business startups, the city is emerging as a prime choice for entrepreneurial success.
(2025-12-18). An industrial disaster wrecked my home. Now I'm living out of a hotel. therealnews.com 
"We still don't have any help. We know that people are still sick. We've known people are sick. There's still people in town wanting to get out." | "We still don't have any help. We know that people are still sick. We've known people are sick. There's still people in town wanting to get out." east palestine,Economy,video,East Palestine
(2025-12-18). Immigrants Are Skipping Vital Health Care Appointments Amid Federal Raids. truthout.org As immigrants in southeastern Louisiana and Mississippi braced for this month's U.S. Homeland Security operation, Cristiane Rosales-Fajardo received a panicked phone call from a friend. The friend's Guatemalan tenant, who didn't know she was pregnant, had just delivered a premature baby in the New Orleans house. The parents lacked legal residency, and the mother refused to go to a hospital… |
(2025-12-18). Privatize USPS? Mail Carriers Have A Better Idea. popularresistance.org This week, we're taking a more national focus, and checking in with the National Association of Letter Carriers, who have been embroiled in a years-long contract negotiation with the U.S. Postal Service. | In our episode today, I'm sitting down with Melissa Rakestraw, member of the National Association of Letter Carriers, Branch 825 in Chicago, IL, to discuss the state of negotiations with our nation's letter carriers, the unprecedented rejection of the recent tentative agreement and what happens next, and what would happen if the U.S. Postal Service was privatized.
(2025-12-18). PSX nears 172,000 points milestone. tribune.com.pk 
The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) extended its record-breaking rally on Thursday, nearing the 172,000 points mark. | PSX posted a strong bullish session as the KSE-100 Index closed at a fresh all-time high of 171,961 points, gaining 1,646 points (+0.97%). | "Buying momentum remained firm throughout the day, driven by better-than-expected current account figures for November, which improved investor confidence and encouraged fresh positioning across key sectors," said Ali Najib, Deputy Head of Trading at Arif Habib Ltd. | On the corporate side, MLCF announced a public offer to acquire 11.72% of Pioneer Cement a…
(2025-12-18). An Open Letter to Chancellor Friedrich Merz: Security Is Indivisible — and History Matters. worldbeyondwar.org 
You have spoken repeatedly of Germany's responsibility for European security. That responsibility cannot be discharged through slogans, selective memory, or the steady normalization of war talk. #WorldBEYONDWar…
(2025-12-18). Pres. Pezeshkian rejects US conditions for talks. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said the US is presenting "humiliating conditions" for continuing negotiations, which Iran will not accept, noting that Iran will neither submit to humiliation, nor accept a weak Iran.
(2025-12-18). 'I Come From the Shop Floor': Rob Ashton Wants To Rebuild the NDP From the Working Class Up. portside.org 'I Come From the Shop Floor': Rob Ashton Wants To Rebuild the NDP From the Working Class Up |
(2025-12-18). Learning from Myles Horton's Legendary Career in Social Movements. dissidentvoice.org Left: Myles Horton (Wikipedia/Wisconsin Historical Society). Right: The Highlander Folk School welcome sign on the original Tennessee location. (Wikimedia Commons/Bryan MacKinnon)(This article was first published in Waging Nonviolence) Over a career that spanned more than 50 years and touched on some of the major American social movements of the 20th century, Myles Horton established himself …
(2025-12-18). Beijing's reaction to US-Taiwan arms deal is "information warfare" aljazeera.com "All the [US] weapon systems [sold to Taiwan] … are defensive in nature."
(2025-12-18). Trump Administration Sets Goal to Denaturalize Thousands of US Citizens in 2026. truthout.org The Trump administration has reportedly set a goal of yanking citizenship away from over a thousand naturalized Americans in fiscal year 2026, in yet another escalation in the administration's sweeping immigration crackdown. New guidance issued on Tuesday directs the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) field offices to "supply Office of Immigration Litigation with 100-200… |
(2025-12-18). White House accuses South Africa of harassing US gov't staff in latest row. aljazeera.com Trump has repeatedly targeted South Africa, including baselessly claiming systemic persecution of white Afrikaners.
(2025-12-18). Turkey warns Russia and Ukraine after shooting down drone. newarab.com 
Turkey has warned Russia and Ukraine to exercise greater caution regarding Black Sea security after its air force shot down a drone that entered Turkish airspace, the defence ministry said Thursday. | F‚Äë16 fighter jets were dispatched on Monday after an "out of control" drone approached Turkish airspace from the Black Sea. The drone was shot down in a safe area to protect civilians and air traffic, officials said. | The incident followed recent Ukrainian strikes on Russian "shadow fleet" tankers off the Turkish coast, as well as warnings from Turkish officials about the risk of the war in Ukr…
(2025-12-18). Non-bailable arrest warrants issued for CM Afridi over misleading remarks against state institutions. tribune.com.pk 
The Islamabad district court has issued non-bailable arrest warrants for Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi after his repeated failure to appear in court regarding a case involving misleading allegations against state institutions and damaging their reputation. | Senior Civil Judge Abbas Shah conducted the hearing on Thursday on a case filed under the PECA Act, where the National Cyber Crime Agency (NCCIA) had accused Sohail Afridi of making false statements. Despite the seriousness of the charges, Afridi and his lawyer failed to appear before the court on the scheduled date. | The court had previ…
(2025-12-18). 'They've Ruined Christmas': Nigerian Student Blocked By Home Office From Visiting UK Family for Holidays. bylinetimes.com 
A British academic and his Nigerian wife say the Home Office has "ruined Christmas" after refusing a visa for their cousin, a student of prosthetics and orthotics at a top-ranking university. | Dr James Pickering and his wife Chioma had booked a return flight for their eighteen-year-old cousin and had stated that they could financially sponsor her visit. | However, the Home Office denied the visa, saying that their cousin Chizaram had not provided evidence of an "ongoing and genuine relationship" with Pickering and his wife, which "damages the credibility of [your] application". | They added: "I am not satisfi…
(2025-12-18). Nissan Accelerates Expansion in India with New Models. devdiscourse.com Nissan, the Japanese automotive giant, has announced a strategic expansion in the Indian market with plans to launch three new models within the next 14-16 months. The new lineup features the seven-seater Gravite, set to debut in early 2026. The company's strategy aims to bolster its market presence.
(2025-12-18). China test network transmits 699 days of data in just 1.6 hours. tribune.com.pk 
Data that would take 699 days to transmit over the traditional Internet was transferred in just 1.6 hours on a testbed for China's future networks. | China's first national science and technology infrastructure in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector ⚪ China Environment for Network Innovation (CENI) ⚪ recently passed national acceptance in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, and has been officially commissioned. | CENI is an open, user-friendly, and sustainable large-scale universal test infrastructure that provides a simple, efficient, and low-cost test and verification environment…
(2025-12-18). Mutually Exclusive Contracts: American Aircraft and Russian Air Defense? uwidata.com By Ceren Ceviz Türkiye's negotiations with the United States over the F-35 program remain complicated due to Ankara's possession of the Russian S-400 Triumph air defense system. This article examines why Türkiye considers the S-400 essential and why it is unwilling to forgo it in exchange for the F-35 Lightning II. The Republic of Türkiye …
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko describes Putin as a political. eng.belta.by Russian President Vladimir Putin is a strong politician and a good person, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said in an interview with the U.S. media company Newsmax, BelTA has learned.
(2025-12-18). Secretive Georgia Clemency Board Suspends Execution After Its Conflicts of Interest Are Exposed. theintercept.com 
On the same day the state of Georgia issued a death warrant for Stacey Ian Humphreys, setting his execution for December 17, Gov. Brian Kemp The new member was Kim McCoy, previously a victims' advocate at the Cobb County District Attorney's Office. As the head of the Victim Witness Unit for 25 years, she offered dedicated support to victims' family members "in capital c…
(2025-12-18). Bondi Beach and the Deadly Reach of Radicalisation. moderndiplomacy.eu Bondi Beach is known the world over as a happy place, a place that is full of sunshine, families, visitors, and partying. The image was shattered not long ago when a brutal assault on a mass gathering transformed a peaceful crowd into a terror and tragedy crowd. Human beings were killed and wounded just by …
(2025-12-18). How Globalized Fraud Made Its Way into Silicon Valley. moderndiplomacy.eu The Scene Everyone Pretends Not to See Somewhere in Shenzhen, China, a small advertising firm spins up a Facebook account using a fake name, a borrowed birthday, and a crypto-funded wallet. Within hours, an ad promising miracle supplements or guaranteed investment returns is running in English, aimed at retirees in Ohio or small business owners …
(2025-12-18). 64 sculptors build 19-meter-tall snowman in Harbin. ecns.cn China has once again urged certain individuals in Japan to stop peddling false narratives, retract erroneous remarks on the Taiwan question, and provide a responsible explanation to China and the international community.
(2025-12-18). 'Everything is worse since Drax came here' activists occupy Drax's head office unfurling 'Drax Kills' banner. thecanary.co Activists have crashed Drax's head office in London demanding justice for communities suffering severe health consequences from the company's pellet producing operations abroad. Activists unfurled a banner reading 'Drax Kills' and occupied the office lobby until security removed them. Drax in Mississippi The occupation follows a damning report published yesterday in the Guardian, detailing the […] | By
(2025-12-18). Ukraine's big admission: Putin's army swells to 710,000 as Zelensky scrambles for whooping $60 Billion. hindustantimes.com Russia has launched a massive war-ending offensive on Ukraine, deploying 710,000 troops while Kyiv faces catastrophic losses. Ukrainian Commander Oleksandr Syrskyi confirmed heavy casualties, with nearly half a million troops lost, as Russia continues its strategic push across Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. The Institute for the Study of War reports Russia has occupied 4,669 sq. km in 2025, a 22% increase over last year. Amid the conflict, Ukraine requests $60 billion from the U.S. and Europe for 2026 defense costs. Tensions escalate as Moscow pursues its objectives, ignoring NATO warnings and conti…
(2025-12-18). 'Silencing dissent, enabling genocide' justice group accuses the UK government. thecanary.co The International Centre of Justice for Palestinians has said the UK government's disregard for Palestine Action hunger strikers is inexcusable. It accuses the government of "Silencing dissent, enabling genocide": Lammy refuses meetings As Palestine Action prisoners enter a life-threatening phase of their hunger strike, the International Centre of Justice for Palestinians calls for the immediate […] | By
(2025-12-18). Tannane goal from own half sets Morocco on way to FIFA Arab Cup 2025 title. aljazeera.com Morocco beat Jordan 3-2 as a strike from inside his own half by Oussama Tannane set the tone for a spectacular final.
(2025-12-18). Polysilicon: An Opportunity to Demonstrate 'America First'. wattsupwiththat.com The United States does not need half-measures. It needs clear, uncompromising enforcement that restores domestic market confidence. A full prohibition on imports of Chinese-origin and -linked polysilicon and derivatives ensures a competitive, transparent, and reliable supply chain for the material, unlocking a new era of advanced technologies. Anything less will leave American manufacturing expertise vulnerable, American jobs on the line, and America's national security at risk.
(2025-12-18). President Ramaphosa receives interim report of Madlanga Commission. sanews.gov.za President Ramaphosa receives interim report of Madlanga Commission | President Cyril Ramaphosa has received the interim report of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System. | The interim report was presented to the President on Wednesday, 17 December 2025. | The Madlanga Commission was established by President Ramaphosa in July 2025 and is chaired by retired Constitutional Court Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga. The Commission was appointed to investigate allegations of criminal conduct, political interference and corruption within South A…
(2025-12-18). 'Liquid gold', health drinks heating up cold weather. ecns.cn A sharp hit of ginger, a squeeze of lemon and a lingering warmth that runs from mouth to belly, turmeric drinks, dubbed "liquid gold" by young consumers, are emerging as hot winter hits in the country, a signal of the rise of health-focused beverages.
(2025-12-18). Macro policy support to see 2026 boost. ecns.cn China will step up macroeconomic policy support next year, intensifying efforts to expand domestic demand, deepen market reforms and stabilize the property sector, officials and experts said.
(2025-12-18). Morocco players and fans celebrate winning Arab Cup. aljazeera.com Morocco fans and players celebrated the team's victory in the Arab Cup final, beating Jordan 3-2 in a thrilling final.
(2025-12-18). An Activist Guide To Trump's National Security Strategy 2025. popularresistance.org "We're not just waiting around to see what happens," said Mich González of the Southeast Dignity Not Detention coalition in New Orleans as they prepare to challenge ICE deportation raids in their communities. | "We're talking to our brothers and sisters that organized in Los Angeles, that organized in Chicago, that are organizing and continuing to protect each other in North Carolina, and we're taking all their lessons," said González | Thousands of miles away, Chief Marilyn Slett of the Haí…´zaqv Nation and secretary-treasurer of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs declares: "We will not stand by while the C…
(2025-12-18). Israel launches several air strikes on southern and eastern Lebanon. aljazeera.com The Israeli army has launched a series of strikes on southern and eastern Lebanon, saying it targeted Hezbollah sites.
(2025-12-18). 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.
(2025-12-18). Bondi attack resurrects spectre of Abu Sayyaf Group. tribune.com.pk 
The father-and-son duo suspected of unleashing the deadly attack on Jewish people attending a religious festival at one of Australia's most iconic beaches had received "military-style training" in the Philippines, where they spent most of November, Australia's public broadcaster ABC has reported, citing security sources. | At least 15 people were killed and dozens more injured when Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram, went on a rampage during Hanukkah celebrations at Bondi Beach in Sydney. Sajid was later killed in a police operation. | According to the Philippines Bureau of Immigration, the…
(2025-12-18). Bearing witness to Sudan war. aljazeera.com Sudan's war is devastating cities and displacing millions.
(2025-12-18). Palestine Action hunger strikers demand UK government meeting. newarab.com 
Some of the eight
(2025-12-18). Kruger National Park implements gate quotas to avoid overcrowding. sanews.gov.za Kruger National Park implements gate quotas to avoid overcrowding | The South African National Parks (SANParks) has advised day visitors planning to visit the Kruger National Park (KNP) during the festive season that gate quotas will be in place to prevent overcrowding on the roads and facilities. | "Once daily quotas are reached, only pre-booked visitors will be allowed entry. Queueing will then apply, and access will be dependent on the number of visitors exiting the park. Wild Card members are reminded that they are not exempt from the pre-booking administration fee," SANParks said on Wednesday. | To safeguar…
(2025-12-18). Fired Federal Workers In D.C. Sue Trump Administration. popularresistance.org Washington, DC — Former federal workers in D.C. have come together to file a lawsuit against the Trump administration over the unlawful firing of multiple employees over accusations of their work being a part of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This comes as Trump has cut the jobs of almost 12% of the 2.3 million-strong federal workforce since the start of his second term. | The lawsuit highlights that the firings of these federal workers are based on Trump's internal war against his perceived political enemies, which include people of color, women, trans people, and others.
(2025-12-18). Friend of Israel Reed's review of 'foreign interference' doesn't mention Israel. thecanary.co The government's Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has announced what it calls an "Urgent review into foreign financial interference in UK politics". Un-but-ought-to-be-remarkably, the announcement does not contain a single mention of the biggest 'foreign financial interferer' in UK politics — Israel — even once. Instead, it refers only to the "shocking […] | By
(2025-12-18). Tour gives China-Arab strategic trust a boost. ecns.cn Foreign Minister Wang Yi's five-day tour of the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Jordan has reinforced strategic trust between China and Arab countries and advanced cooperation across multiple fields, as China steps up preparations for hosting the second China-Arab States Summit next year.
(2025-12-18). US: Masked Federal Agents Undermine Rule of Law. commondreams.org United States federal immigration enforcement agents now commonly operate masked and without visible identification, compounding the abusive and unaccountable nature of the Trump administration's mass deportation campaign, Human Rights Watch said today. The indefinite and widespread nature of these practices is fundamentally inconsistent with the United States' obligations to ensure that law enforcement abuses are investigated and met with accountability."Law enforcement officers must be identifiable to be accountable," said
(2025-12-18). Police in Sydney detain men over possible 'violent act'. aljazeera.com Australian police say they intercepted two cars in Liverpool, southwest Sydney over a possible "violent act".
(2025-12-18). Extending the Table Recipe: Spiced Lentil Soup. anabaptistworld.org "Do you think Jesus ate this soup?" This thoughtful question was asked by a Sunday school kid as our one-room schoolhouse- style class reviewed an Egyptian Spicy Lentil Pot recipe from Extending the Table. After a contemplative pause, I responded, "Yes. I think it is most possible and even probable as lentils were an affordable …
(2025-12-18). The Ummah's Alarming Retreat Away from Political Islam and into Nationalism. muslimskeptic.com During the past two decades of the War on Terror, the US and Israel have targeted Islamic social and political institutions throughout the Middle East with destabilization and repression, treating them not merely as security challenges but as civilizational threats. In the past twenty years, we have seen religious institutions, mosques, educational networks, and Islamist …
(2025-12-18). Cuba contará con una nueva tasa de cambio desde este 18 de diciembre. radiohc.cu Comparecencia especial de la ministra presidenta del Banco Central de Cuba, Juana Lilia Delgado Portal. La Habana 17 de diciembre de 2025. | Como se ha venido informando por el Gobierno de la República, el Banco Central de Cuba ha trabajado en la creación de condiciones para iniciar transformaciones en el mercado cambiario de divisas, bajo principios de gradualidad y temporalidad. | En la economía cubana coexisten actualmente distintas tasas de cambio de las divisas, lo que genera distorsiones, incentiva la informalidad y dificulta la trazabilidad bancaria y fiscal de los hechos económicos. | Esta transformación…
(2025-12-18). Nueva tasa de cambio en Cuba: Ocho preguntas para comprender cómo funcionará. cubadebate.cu Como informó recientemente la ministra presidenta del Banco Central de Cuba, el país contará con una nueva tasa de cambio oficial. Para conocer el alcance real de la medida, cómo impactará en los diversos actores de la economía y en la población, conversamos con Ian Pedro Carbonell, director de Políticas Macroeconómicas del Banco Central de Cuba.
(2025-12-18). Japón colabora con UNICEF en beneficio del pueblo cubano. radiohc.cu El embajador de Japón en Cuba, Nakamura Kazuhito y la Representante Adjunta de la Oficina del Fondo de Naciones Unidas para la Infancia, UNICEF, en la isla, Sunny Guidotti intercambiaron notas que oficializan un nuevo proyecto de cooperación valorado en un millón de dólares. | La inversion se realizará para mejorar la infraestructura y los servicios de agua, saneamiento, higiene y salud materno-infantil en comunidades vulnerables de Guantánamo, Granma y Santiago de Cuba. | Con una duración de 24 meses, la iniciativa, que de firma especial, beneficiará a niñas, niños, adolescentes y mujeres embarazadas, prioriza e…
(2025-12-18). Díaz-Canel interviene desde el Capitolio Nacional en el acto por el lanzamiento del Proyecto "25 para el 25" cubadebate.cu El Proyecto "25 para el 25", iniciativa de la presidenta mexicana Claudia Sheinbaum, distribuirá gratuitamente 2.5 millones de libros a jóvenes de 15 a 30 años en 14 países de América Latina. Por tan inspiradora razón, en la tarde de este miércoles, desde el Capitolio Nacional, el presidente Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, simultáneamente a la presentación inaugural de su homóloga desde el Zócalo en la Ciudad de México, dio luz verde al inicio de este proyecto educativo y cultural que también incluye a Cuba.
(2025-12-18). Aguas de La Habana desmiente rumores sobre supuesta contaminación de fuente El Gato. cubadebate.cu La Empresa Aguas de La Habana informó que la fuente de abasto El Gato mantiene condiciones óptimas de operación, y descartó versiones difundidas en redes sociales sobre una supuesta contaminación. La entidad aseguró que funciona de manera óptima el punto de cloración de la fuente subterránea, reconocida por su excelente calidad del agua.
(2025-12-18). DAILY MEMO: ICE And Border Patrol Spotted In 18 Cities Taking Street Vendors, Construction Workers, and Crashing Into Vehicles While Chasing People. lataco.com ICE and Border Patrol took, that we know of, somewhere around 19 to 25 people today from at least 18 neighborhoods and cities they were present in, including San Bernardino, Riverside, Highland, Palm Springs, Rialto, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, San Diego, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Lancaster, Palmdale, Antelope Valley, and Victor Ville which was all ICE today. While Border Patrol raided through Arcadia, El Monte, Temple City, and Rosemead.
(2025-12-18). risks, no moral La Trobe and the Bendigo Writers Festival. independentaustralia.net 
(2025-12-18). US Expands Military Encirclement Of China Across The Pacific. popularresistance.org At a Pentagon meeting on Dec. 10, U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and his counterparts from Australia and Britain pledged to move "full steam ahead" with AUKUS, a trilateral military pact through which the United States is turning Australia into a forward operating base and nuclear-submarine hub for a potential war on China. | In a joint statement, the three governments made clear the pact is about accelerating war preparations — building bases faster, expanding military staffing and pushing weapons development at full speed. | The announcement came as the United States deployed a pair of nuclear-capable…