(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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). Lebanese army agrees to document Hezbollah disarmament. newarab.com 
The head of Israel and
(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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). Violence erupts in Bangladesh after wounded youth leader dies. geo.tv 
(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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). After Tukey and Lebanon, Pope Leo XIV may visit Algeria next. newarab.com 
(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). 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). '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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). '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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). 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). Myanmar journalist Sut Ring Pan serving 13 years in prison on incitement, terrorism charges. CPJ staff
(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). Bangladesh arrests veteran journalist Anis Alamgir on terrorism charges. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). Palestinian journalist Sami al-Sai alleges torture, sexual violence in Israeli prison. 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). Chinese citizen journalist seeking asylum in US faces deportation. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). Man storms Infomax newsroom during live broadcast in North Macedonia. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). 127 African women journalists write to jailed Burundian Sandra Muhoza as she returns to court. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). New year display unveiled at Times Square. ecns.cn
(2025-12-19). Israeli occupation forces raid Kafar Qaddum east of Qalqiya in West Bank: Palestinian sources. english.almanar.com.lb
(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). CPJ, partners call for the immediate release of Yemeni journalist Naseh Shaker. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). CPJ: Trump's BBC lawsuit is yet another attack on US media freedom. CPJ Staff
(2025-12-19). Egyptian PM visits Beirut, meets top Lebanese officials. english.almanar.com.lb
(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). 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). 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). 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). How the Bondi Beach attack is being weaponized to suppress the Palestine movement in Australia. mondoweiss.net 
The Australian government is using the Bondi Beach attack as a pretext to accelerate its repression of the Palestine movement. This response lays bare the state's true interest: to protect and defend Australia's complicity in the Gaza genocide.
(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). 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). Palestinian prisoners — Israeli lawyer branded traitor for exposing torture. thecanary.co 
Since the beginning of the genocide in Gaza, conditions for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails have deteriorated significantly. Testimonies from human rights organisations, lawyers, and former detainees describe a system where overcrowding, beatings, deprivation, and isolation have intensified to levels previously unseen. Palestinian political prisoners have no visits The United Nations Committee Against Torture claims […] | By
(2025-12-18). UN warns Israel is bringing Gaza to humanitarian collapse. thecanary.co The United Nations, alongside 200 relief organisations, are warning of an imminent collapse in humanitarian operations in Gaza. They cite ongoing obstacles and restrictions imposed by Israel, describing these as 'arbitrary and politicised' and obstructive to lifesaving efforts. Israel declares war on aid groups in Gaza Dozens of international aid organisations are at risk of […] | By
(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). What Gaza and Ukraine reveal about a new era of imposed peace. independentaustralia.net 
(2025-12-18). Imani Barbarin on disability rights, COVID and the war on Gaza. aljazeera.com Why the TikTok star and disability advocate wants the world to rethink what it means to be disabled.
(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). Chris Hedges speaks to IA about Gaza genocide, Bondi and. independentaustralia.net 
(2025-12-18). China Voices Support for Venezuela After U.S. Blockade, No Rescue in Sight. moderndiplomacy.eu China has voiced opposition to what it described as "unilateral bullying" after the United States ordered a blockade of oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela, a move that sharply escalates pressure on the OPEC member and its president, Nicolas Maduro. The blockade comes as Washington has increased its military presence in the region, including troops …
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko: Belarus, USA can work together in Venezuela. eng.belta.by Belarus and the USA can work together to resolve the situation in Venezuela, and such a proposal was voiced to the American side, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said in an interview with the U.S. media company Newsmax.
(2025-12-18). US Racist Immigration Policy Toward Haiti Reinforces Imperialism. popularresistance.org On November 26th 2025, the Trump administration terminated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti using nearly identical language to the TPS cancellations earlier this year for displaced Venezuelans and affecting upward of 353,000 Haitian migrants. In both cases, the Department of Homeland Security claimed that continued protections were "not in the national security or foreign policy interests of the United States," affirming U.S. policy abuses redefine their "interests" at a whim. | While the U.S. has long politicized displacement from leftist states like Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua, casting migrants as…
(2025-12-18). World BEYOND War Demands an End to U.S. Hostitlity Toward Venezuela. worldbeyondwar.org 
World BEYOND War is deeply disappointed by the actions of the Trump administration, by the failed votes in the U.S. Senate in October and November, and by the failed votes in the U.S. House this week. #WorldBEYONDWar…
(2025-12-18). Venezuela Strongly Condemns US Threat of Blockade, Gains International Backing. orinocotribune.com Caracas ( "Venezuela is completely surrounded by the large…
(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). 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). 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). 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). Maduro responds to Trump's threats. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro accused the United States of seeking to overthrow his government and turn Venezuela into a colony, rejecting Washington's recent threats and oil blockade as a "diplomacy of barbarism."
(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 Moves Closer To War With Venezuela, And Other Notes. caitlinjohnstone.com.au ‚ùñ | President Trump
(2025-12-18). U.S. Racist Immigration Policy Toward Haiti Reinforces Imperialism and Weakens Popular Sovereignty. dissidentvoice.org On November 26th, 2025, the Trump administration terminated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti using nearly identical language to the TPS cancellations earlier this year for displaced Venezuelans and affecting upward of 353,000 Haitian migrants. In both cases, the Department of Homeland Security claimed that continued protections were "not in the national security or foreign …
(2025-12-18). Venezuela International Conference; US Delegates Defy 'No-Fly Zone'. popularresistance.org Caracas, Venezuela – A delegation from the U.S. traveled to Venezuela to attend the People's Assembly for Peace and Sovereignty in our Americas held in Caracas from December 9—11. The activists represented organizations opposing U.S. imperialist wars and took part in a coordinated week of action across 100 cities from November 15-23 to demand "No U.S. War on Venezuela!" and "No Troops on Our Streets!" | It was of utmost importance to participate in the assembly hosted by the Venezuelan government and the Simón Bolivar Institute to show unwavering solidarity with the Bolivarian Revolution as it defends itsel…
(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). 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.
(2025-12-18). Leader of 2024 Bangladesh student protests dies in a Singapore hospital. aljazeera.com Sharif Osman Bin Hadi was a leading figure during the uprising toppled former prime minister Sheikh Hasina in 2024.
(2025-12-18). Trump proposes new rules to ban gender-affirming care for transgender youth. aljazeera.com Critics warn that the Trump administration's statements against transgender healthcare contradict decades of research.
(2025-12-18). Palestine Action hunger strikers demand UK government meeting. newarab.com 
Some of the eight
(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). 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). Police forced march for hunger strikers to divert: images. thecanary.co 
Police forced last night's weekly protest march to the BBC's London HQ in solidarity with the hunger strikers to divert to avoid supposed hurt to Jewish groups meeting for Hanukkah. Jewish people have been front and centre of every protest. The march was excluded from a large area around the BBC: To rub salt into […] | By
(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). 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). Julian Assange explains why Nobel prize's latest move must be challenged. thecanary.co Journalist Julian Assange has launched a legal case against the Nobel Peace Prize for its latest move to enable the resource grabs of US war criminals. In it, he sets out why it's so important to challenge the prize's "serious criminality". JULIAN ASSANGE FILES CRIMINAL COMPLAINT AGAINST NOBEL FOUNDATION OVER "INSTRUMENT OF WAR" PEACE PRIZE […] | By
(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). 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). Could Jordan do the impossible and beat football titans Morocco. newarab.com 
(2025-12-18). HHS Cuts Children's Health Grants After Pediatric Association Criticizes RFK Jr. truthout.org The Department of Health and Human Services has cut millions in dollars in grants from a leading children's health association after the group criticized Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr's unscientific policies. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) was informed this week that the Trump administration was terminating seven grants awarded by federal agencies, The Washington Post first… |
(2025-12-18). Abuse and exploitation endemic in Australia's Pacific "guest worker" scheme. wsws.org Despite ongoing complaints, exposures and official inquiries into the exploitative Pacific labour schemes over many years, little has changed.
(2025-12-18). Top FBI agent embarrasses himself trying to talk about antifa. thecanary.co A top FBI agent utterly embarrassed himself in front of the US House Committee during a hearing on homeland security. He tried to claim that the data supports the assertion that Antifa is top domestic terror threat in the US. However, when questioned, he couldn't answer even the most basic questions on the organisation. The […] | By
(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). 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). 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). Honduras On The Edge: Xiomara Castro Calls For Popular Mobilization. popularresistance.org After a five-day hiatus and more than two weeks since the elections, the Honduran National Electoral Council (CNE) has resumed counting votes in an electoral process that has been widely questioned by various political forces on the left and right in Honduras. According to the CNE, several technical problems are hindering the count. | According to official data, the candidate of the National Party of Honduras (PNH), right-wing Nasry Asfura (backed, among others, by US President Donald Trump) maintains a slight but sustained lead (40.53%) over television presenter Salvador Nasralla of the Liberal Party of Honduras…
(2025-12-18). 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?
(2025-12-18). Thai military attacks Poipet city in Cambodia. albawaba.com ALBAWABA – Thailand's military on Thursday launched an attack on Poipet city in Cambodia, which is located near the border between the two nations, Cambodia's defence ministry said.It is worth noting that border fighting resumed between Cambodia and Thailand, with each nation blaming the other for starting the fight, claiming self-defence.Thai forces "dropped 2 bombs in the area of Poipet Municipality, Banteay Meanchey Province" at around 11: 00 a.m. local time, Thursday, the Cambodian defence ministry stated. However, Bangkok has not commented on the bombing.BREAKING: A Thai F-16 fighter jet dropped two bombs in…
(2025-12-18). Iran, Russia closer collaboration to tackle Western sanctions. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — A day after his trip to Russia, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says "Closer collaboration between Moscow and Tehran will enable stronger action against unlawful Western sanctions, and promote regional stability etc.".
(2025-12-18). Trump denounces actor-director Rob Reiner as "very bad for the country" following tragic killings. wsws.org Reiner has been a household name in the US since his days on the immensely popular situation comedy "All in the Family" in the 1970s.
(2025-12-18). Israel publishes updated death penalty bill for Palestinians. newarab.com 
(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). 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). 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). ECC approves Rs200b power subsidy to keep circular debt within IMF-agreed limits. tribune.com.pk 
As the government projects an alarming increase of Rs491 billion in circular debt within six months, a cabinet body on Thursday approved Rs200 billion power subsidies to keep the flow of the debt within limits agreed with the International Monetary Fund. | The Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet that took the decision also approved Rs11.5 billion for discretionary spending on the parliamentarians' schemes in total disregard to the nation's fiscal health. | The ECC approved a "supplementary grant amounting to Rs200 billion under the head of government of Pakistan investment in DISCOs' equity to addre…
(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: Trump should rely more on First Lady's soft power in foreign affairs. eng.belta.by "Last time I spoke to John Coale [U.S. Special Envoy for Belarus] I asked him: Why isn't Mr Trump relying more on the strongest weapon he has? I mean Melania Trump," the president said.
(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). 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). Thousands of EU farmers clash with police in Brussels. albawaba.com ALBAWABA- Thousands of farmers from across the European Union converged on Brussels on Thursday, blocking major roads with hundreds of tractors, clashing with police, and disrupting traffic during an EU leaders' summit. Protesters hurled eggs, potatoes, and smoke bombs, set off fireworks, and ignited fires, prompting authorities to respond with tear gas and water cannons. The demonstrations oppose the proposed EU-Mercosur free trade agreement with South American nations including Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. Farmers warn the deal would flood European markets with cheaper beef, poultry, sugar, and oth…
(2025-12-18). TikTok launches self-service advertising platform for small businesses in Pakistan. tribune.com.pk 
TikTok has rolled out a new self-serve advertising solution in Pakistan to empower small and medium-size businesses to tap into the power of the platform to grow their brand. | TikTok For Business Ads Manager', a self-service advertising platform, gives small and medium-size businesses (SMBs) the tools to tap into the creativity of the TikTok community, reach new audiences and optimise their campaigns with an easy-to-use platform. | The move marks an important step in expanding TikTok in Pakistan, giving local entrepreneurs, homegrown brands and growing businesses simple, flexible and cost-effective…
(2025-12-18). Tragedy Strikes: Deadly Pile-Up on Yamuna Expressway Claims 19 Lives. devdiscourse.com Nineteen people have tragically lost their lives following a catastrophic multi-vehicle accident on the Yamuna Expressway in Mathura, officials confirmed on Thursday.
(2025-12-18). BRICS 'Stuck Rupees' Solved with Russia—India National Currency Pivot. infobrics.org BRICS stuck rupees are no longer creating problems, and Russia India payments now flow smoothly through national currency transactions. The banking transformation has been led by Sberbank India, which resolved rupee conversion challenges that actually dominated headlines back in 2022-2023 through automated processing systems and AI technology…
(2025-12-18). Democracy Now! 2025-12-18 Thursday. democracynow.org Headlines for December 18, 2025; "Divorced from Reality": Economist Dean Baker Fact-Checks Trump's Primetime Speech; Meet Tania Nemer, Fired Immigration Judge Suing Trump Admin Amid Purge of Immigration Court System; "No Military Solution": Is Peace Possible in Sudan as "Proxy War" Expands? | Headlines for December 18, 2025; "Divorced from Reality": Economist Dean Baker Fact-Checks Trump's Primetime Speech; Meet Tania Nemer, Fired Immigration Judge Suing Trump Admin Amid Purge of Immigration Court System; "No Military Solution": Is Peace Possib…
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko comments on situation with sports in Belarus. eng.belta.by Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko commented on the situation | with sports in the country while addressing to the Belarusian people and | Parliament during the second session of the 7th Belarusian People's…
(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). French anaesthetist jailed for life after poisoning and killing patients. aljazeera.com The prosecution accused Frederic Pechier of having 'used medicine to kill' at least 12 people.
(2025-12-18). DWYPD warns of increased financial abuse during festive season. sanews.gov.za DWYPD warns of increased financial abuse during festive season | The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has urged women and people with disabilities to remain vigilant against financial abuse during the festive season. | The department raised concern over the increased risk of financial exploitation targeting women and persons with disabilities during this period. | The department explained that financial abuse can take various forms, including controlling access to money, misusing income or social grants, forcing individuals into debt under their names, and exploiting economic depen…
(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). Gold prices rise continuously, further increases today. tribune.com.pk 
The price of gold climbed again on Thursday, with both global bullion rates and local market values pushing the yellow metal to higher levels amid continued demand and broader trends in international markets. | In the international bullion market, the price of gold per ounce rose by $22 to reach $4,334, prompting gains in local bullion markets as well. As a result, the price of 24‚Äëcarat gold in Pakistan increased by Rs2,200 to settle at Rs455,762 per tola, according to the All‚ÄëPakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association. Likewise, the price of gold per 10 grams rose by Rs…
(2025-12-18). 'A strong figure': Lukashenko on comparing Trump to a bulldozer. eng.belta.by I wanted Donald Trump to win the U.S. presidential election but I am not his blind supporter, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said in an interview with the U.S. media companyNewsmax,…
(2025-12-18). Equity film and TV performers demand AI protections in 99% vote. thecanary.co Performers working in film and TV have voted 'Yes' by a landslide 99% to refuse digital scanning on set in order to secure artificial intelligence protections. Equity, the performing arts and entertainment trade union, held the indicative ballot. General secretary Paul W Fleming announced the result on 18 December, at the union's headquarters in Covent […] | By
(2025-12-18). For the fourth consecutive year, Russia weaponises Christmas. independentaustralia.net 
(2025-12-18). England Ashes dreams on life-support. tribune.com.pk 
(2025-12-18). Australia vows new hate laws as youngest Bondi Beach shooting victim laid to rest. tribune.com.pk 
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday promised new laws targeting hate speech and radicalisation following the deadly attack at a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney's Bondi Beach, as the youngest of 15 victims was laid to rest. | Ten-year-old Matilda, whose middle name was Bee, was remembered as a "ray of sunshine" who loved animals and dancing. Yellow toy bees adorned her coffin, and attendees wore bee-themed stickers, toys, and balloons in her memory. The family has requested that her surname not be published. | Rabbi Yehoram Ulman described the attack as "tragic, so totally cruel, unfathomable,…
(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). Iran's Army Ground Force equipped with AI to confront enemy. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — Iran's Army Ground Force Commander Brigadier General Ali Jahanshahi says the force is equipping with the artificial intelligence (AI), quantum, advanced technologies to defend the country against external threats.
(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). 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). Uproar in India over Bihar chief minister pulling down Muslim woman's hijab. aljazeera.com Nitish Kumar, a BJP ally, removes the veil of a female doctor during a government event, triggering widespread outrage.
(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). 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.
(2025-12-18). 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). 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). CDF Asim Munir meets Libyan military leaders to boost defence ties. tribune.com.pk 
Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, visited Libya on an official trip and met Field Marshal Khalifa Belqasim Haftar, Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan Arab Armed Forces, and Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa Haftar, Deputy Commander-in-Chief. | A contingent of the Libyan Armed Forces presented a guard of honour to the Field Marshal Munir upon his arrival. | During the meeting with Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, both sides discussed matters of mutual interest, regional security, and ways to enhance bilateral defence and military cooperation. They emphasised the importance of collaboration in trainin…
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko says he avoids any moves that can escalate tensions with Lithuania. eng.belta.by The head of state is convinced that it is necessary to sit down at the negotiating table and reach agreements.
(2025-12-18). Constitutional victory for small businesses as LHC protects snooker clubs. tribune.com.pk 
The Lahore High Court (LHC) has ruled that running a snooker club is a "lawful and legitimate" business, cautioning lower courts against using emergency laws to shut down recreational spots over vague complaints. | Justice Jawad Zafar, in a five-page judgment, set aside a trial court's order that had forced a citizen in Sargodha to shut down his club. The ruling clarifies a fine line in Pakistani law: the difference between a genuine public nuisance and the fundamental right to earn a living. | The case landed in the high court after Muhammad Rashid, a local entrepreneur, saw his snooker club shuttered by an a…
(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). The Clock Is Ticking: Invest in the Planet, Not the Pentagon. fpif.org Ten years ago as of December 2025, nearly every country in the world made a promise. By signing the Recognizing their historic responsibility for greenhouse gas emissions, the Paris Agreement called on wealthier countries like the United States to contribute funding to help poorer countries adapt. And it envisioned the economic an…
(2025-12-18). Madison Teachers Union Trivia Night Fundraiser March 14, 2025. wibailoutpeople.org 
(2025-12-18). Israel launches series of strikes on Lebanon. newarab.com 
(2025-12-18). PSG beat Flamengo in Intercontinental Cup. tribune.com.pk 
Back-up goalkeeper Matvei Safonov saved four penalties as Paris Saint-Germain edged out Brazilians Flamengo 2-1 in a shoot-out to win the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final in Qatar on Wednesday. | PSG led through Khvicha Kvaratskhelia before Jorginho's spot-kick levelled for Flamengo as the game finished 1-1 after extra time. | Copa Libertadores winners Flamengo defeated Mexicans Cruz Azul and African champions Pyramids last week to earn the right to face PSG and pushed the European champions all the way with a dogged display. | But Luis Enrique's men, who received a bye to the final, were indebted to Safonov an…
(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). BP taps Woodside's Meg O'Neill as CEO as it pivots back to fossil fuels. aljazeera.com O'Neill is the first woman to lead one of the top five major oil companies.
(2025-12-18). SADC Extraordinary Summit considers Madagascar report. sanews.gov.za SADC Extraordinary Summit considers Madagascar report | President Cyril Ramaphosa says the Southern African Development Community (SADC) will consider a report on the political and security situation in Madagascar. ⚪ Speaking at a virtual Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government convened on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa thanked regional leaders for responding to his invitation, saying the meeting was convened to consider a report from the Chairperson of the Organ on the political and security situation in the island nation of Madagascar. ⚪ He recalled that the region had met recently to address ur…
(2025-12-18). Man City look to extend winning streak against West Ham. tribune.com.pk 
Manchester City have the chance to climb above Arsenal and seize the Premier League lead this Saturday with a home clash against struggling West Ham United, before Mikel Arteta's injury-hit side head to Everton later in the day. | Pep Guardiola's side sit two points behind Arsenal and will move provisionally top with a win over West Ham. | City are in imperious form, with one loss at the Etihad in their last 11 matches and riding a six-game winning streak in all competitions. | Despite injuries to key players like Rodri and John Stones, and missing Omar Marmoush and Rayan Ait-Nouri to international duty, their…
(2025-12-18). 'Core 5' over G7? Lukashenko offers geopolitical forecast. eng.belta.by "I have heard from the media that Trump is ready to create a bloc of five states: Russia, China, Japan, the United States of America, and India. I think if this union is established, the world will be completely different, and this will happen in a short period of time," the head of state said.
(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). 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). EU: New Rules on Asylum and 'Safe Countries' Undermine the Foundation of Refugee Protection. commondreams.org Reacting to the agreements between the European Parliament and Council on new EU asylum rules, which undermine the very foundation of refugee protection, Olivia Sundberg Diez, the EU Advocate on Migration and Asylum at Amnesty International said: "This is an unprecedented attack on asylum in the EU, which must be understood in the context of a vast array of punitive deportation measures, still under negotiation. This shameless attempt to sidestep international legal obligations further shifts EU responsibility for refugee protection to countries outside Europe and is far from a humane migration policy that upho…
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko: Schoolchildren should take part in community work. eng.belta.by The head of state was asked to give his take on the decision of educational institutions to limit mobile phone use and involve children in socially useful activity and work.
(2025-12-18). 'All moving toward a big deal': Lukashenko hails progress in talks with USA. eng.belta.by In the talks with the USA, we are moving towards a big deal and a possible meeting at the level of the countries' leaders, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said as he answered questions following his Address to the Belarusian people and the Parliament on 18 December.
(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). 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). US sanctions 29 ships over Iranian oil shipments. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — The U.S. Treasury Department announced new sanctions targeting 29 vessels and their management companies, accused of transporting hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of Iranian oil products.
(2025-12-18). Pro-Palestinian hacker group breaches phone of ex-Israeli PM. en.mehrnews.com TEHRAN, Dec. 18 (MNA) — The pro-Palestinian hacker group Handala says it has infiltrated the personal cellular device of former Israeli prime minister Naftali Bennett, accessing sensitive documents and personal communications.
(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). 'Karachi World Book Fair' opens at Expo Centre. tribune.com.pk 
Hundreds of students, readers and book gathered at the Expo Centre on Thursday as the Karachi World Book Fair began, signalling renewed interest in reading and literary culture in the city. The five-day fair will continue until December 22. | The opening ceremony was attended by Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah as chief guest, while President of the Arts Council of Pakistan Muhammad Ahmed Shah was the guest of honour. Other prominent attendees included Chairman of the Publishers and Booksellers Association Kamran Noorani, Director National Book Foundation Kamran Jahangir, and Convener of the Karac…
(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). We're all at risk if Trump dismantles this legendary lab. grist.org You may not know it, but you've benefited from the National Center for Atmospheric Research. | For more than half a century, the federally funded lab has been instrumental in the development of weather models that have improved the forecasting of extreme events like hurricanes, thus saving lives. Your go-to weather app can predict the future thanks in large part to the lab, also known as NCAR. Its researchers also study atmospheric pollutants like wildfire smoke
(2025-12-18). Instacart settles Federal Trade Commission's claim it deceived US shoppers. aljazeera.com The FTC had accused the grocery delivery giant of charging fees to consumers after promising 'free delivery'.
(2025-12-18). Pakistan arrests IS-K spokesperson, UN hails move as major setback to group. tribune.com.pk 
Pakistan's intelligence agencies have arrested Khariji Sultan Aziz Azam, spokesperson for the Islamic State Khorasan and founder of the group's official media wing, the Al-Azaim Foundation, according to a United Nations report submitted to the Security Council. | The findings were detailed in the sixteenth report of the UN Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team. The document states that Azaim served as Islamic State Khorasan's (IS-K) central platform for propaganda and recruitment, and that the group's media operations have been suspended following Azam's arrest. | Pakistani authorities have carried…
(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). 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). 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). WHYY Newscast for Thursday 11:00 a.m. whyy.org The latest local headlines from WHYY…
(2025-12-18). Teenage woman bludgeoned to death by ex-fiancé in Karachi. tribune.com.pk 
The body of a 19-year-old woman, Komal, was discovered inside a house in Taiser Town, Surjani Town, on Thursday, in a case that has shocked the local community. Police suspect she was brutally bludgeoned to death by her former fiancé, who is also her cousin. | An FIR has been registered against Rashid Magsi under the murder section, following a complaint lodged by Komal's mother, Rafiya, wife of late Ghulam Hussain. | Rafiya told authorities that Komal had been engaged to Rashid Magsi, her maternal cousin, a year ago, but he had moved to Dubai for work. Three months later, Komal eloped and married anoth…
(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). For a united global movement against layoffs in the auto industry! wsws.org Workers in one country cannot defend their jobs by sacrificing workers in another. Their class interests transcend national rivalries and the chaos of the market. Workers share a common interest in the use of technology to benefit all of humanity, rather than to enrich a privileged few.
(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). 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). '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). Editors' Picks 2025: The Best of NACLA's Online Coverage. nacla.org 
With so many critical events, stories, and voices covered in our 2025 web content it was hard to choose a favorite, but here are our top 10!
(2025-12-18). EU Split Over Ukraine Funding as Belgium Holds Key to 2026—27 Plan. moderndiplomacy.eu European Union leaders are set to decide on Thursday how to finance Ukraine's war effort in 2026 and 2027, with the use of frozen Russian central bank assets emerging as the preferred option. About 210 billion euros of Russian assets are immobilised in the EU, most of them held in Belgium through the clearing house …
(2025-12-18). Breakthrough in BMI tech aids patients. ecns.cn Two Chinese patients with high-level paralysis have successfully used brain-machine interface technology to perform tasks using only their thoughts, including controlling a power wheelchair, directing a robotic dog to retrieve deliveries, and operating a robotic arm to grasp a cup and drink water.
(2025-12-18). Food bank expert perfectly tackles vile question from Sky's Sophy Ridge. thecanary.co 
Sky News presenter Sophy Ridge just asked a food bank expert if she could call increasing demand for help "a good thing". But, Trussell communications director Sumi Rabindrakumar dealt with this vile question calmly and clearly. No Sophy — food banks are NOT a good thing Addressing Ridge's apparent doubt about whether high numbers of […] | By
(2025-12-18). Right wing rags are losing it over a licence fee plan. thecanary.co Another day, another round of benefits hysteria from right wing rags over plans for the licence fee. Labour has announced plans to consider scrapping the licence fee for benefit claimants. That move came after the review of the BBC Royal Charter was published yesterday and contained ways the corporation could save money whilst bringing in […] | By
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko: Belarus' future depends on us. eng.belta.by "What the world will be like tomorrow, we do not know. What Belarus will be like depends on us alone. Everyone must think about how our country develops. Let's do everything so that our children have a place to live," said the head of state.
(2025-12-18). New conference due in February to support Lebanese Armed Forces. newarab.com 
The political parties holding a meeting in Paris on Thursday all agreed to have a conference in February aimed at supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces, said a French foreign ministry spokesperson. | Talks between French, Saudi, and American officials with Lebanese army chief Rodolphe Haykal aimed at finalising a roadmap to enable a mechanism for the Israel and Lebanon agreed to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire in 2024, ending more than a year of fighting between Israel…
(2025-12-18). A gastrointestinal illness outbreak hits a South Jersey elementary school. Public health experts urge caution ahead of the holidays. whyy.org From Philly and the Pa. suburbs to South Jersey and Delaware, what would you like WHYY News to cover? A recent outbreak of gastrointestinal illness at a South Jersey school has public health experts urging people to take precautions this winter and ahead of the holidays to avoid additional infections. | Camden County officials did not confirm the name of the school, but the outbreak is taking place at Central Elementary School in Haddonfield, according to a CBS The exact number of affected students is unknown, b…
(2025-12-18). Does latest US military spending bill place any constraints on Trump? aljazeera.com The US Senate advanced its 2026 National Defense Authorization Act with broad support, but also with caveats.
(2025-12-18). Amid downward trend, Black and Hispanic children account for majority of population in New Jersey's foster care system. 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? The majority of children in New Jersey's foster care system are Black and Hispanic, according to a WHYY News analysis. Camden and Essex counties have the highest number of placements in the state; Black children are the dominant group in those counties. Latino children represent the largest number of placements in Middlesex, Hudson and Passaic counties. | Regions that are mostly rural or along the shore see the largest proportion of white children in fos…
(2025-12-18). The threat we refuse to name. onlineopinion.com.au You can screen luggage, weapons and criminal records. You cannot screen worldviews that rank collective loyalty above individual life – and no amount of security theatre can compensate.
(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). Does Zelensky really want peace? Kremlin gives cryptic response after Berlin talks. hindustantimes.com Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov addressed questions on possible US diplomacy, sanctions, and the Ukraine conflict during a press briefing in Moscow. Peskov said a visit by US special envoy Steve Witkoff is not planned this week, adding that Russia expects updates once Washington completes consultations with Ukraine and Europe. Commenting on peace prospects, Peskov said Moscow will assess official documents before drawing conclusions. He also warned that any new US sanctions, including against Russia's shadow tanker fleet, would harm efforts at normalisation. Russia's stance on foreign troops in Ukraine, he str…
(2025-12-18). Morocco hosting AFCON will help Algeria, Chaibi says. newarab.com 
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko to U.S.: China cannot be stopped, only negotiated with. eng.belta.by The United States will not be able to stop China but can seek an agreement with it, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said in his Address to the Belarusian People and Parliament, BelTA has learned.
(2025-12-18). Chris Hedges: Rebranding Genocide. consortiumnews.com Israel's extensive and blatant flouting of international agreements and law presage a world where the law is whatever the most militarily advanced countries say it is. By Chris Hedges ScheerPost CN at 30 First, it was Israel's right to defend…
(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). 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). Protests in Bangladesh as India cites security concerns. tribune.com.pk 
Bangladesh police on Thursday stopped protesters from marching towards an Indian diplomatic mission, a day after India's foreign ministry conveyed its concerns over the "deteriorating" security environment in the country. | Ties between the two countries have been frosty since former prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India following a student-led uprising last year. | Dhaka has repeatedly asked for her extradition so that she could stand trial for her alleged crimes, with Delhi responding that it was examining the requests. | On Thursday, dozens of demonstrators began marching towards the assistant Indian h…
(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). Conway, Latham opening stand batters hapless West Indies. tribune.com.pk 
Devon Conway and Tom Latham plundered a poor West Indies attack Thursday for a mammoth opening partnership on day one of the third Test in Mount Maunganui as New Zealand piled up 334-1. | Conway ended the day 178 not out and captain Latham was out just before the close for 137. | The pair put together 323, the second highest opening partnership for New Zealand, only bettered by Glenn Turner and Terry Jarvis's 387 stand against the West Indies in Georgetown in 1972. | It was also only the eighth time New Zealand had registered a stand in excess of 300 in Tests. | Conway batted all day facing 279 balls for his s…
(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). 18,000 Delawareans getting early holiday gift — $18.8 million in medical debt relief. whyy.org 
(2025-12-18). US announces $11 billion arms package for Taiwan, largest ever. tribune.com.pk 
The Trump administration announced on Wednesday $11.1 billion in arms sales to Taiwan, the largest-ever US weapons package for the island, which is under increasing military pressure from China. | The announcement marks the second Taiwan arms sale under US President Donald Trump's current administration and comes as Beijing ramps up military and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan, whose government rejects China's sovereignty claims. | The proposed sales cover eight items, including HIMARS rocket systems, howitzers, Javelin anti-tank missiles, Altius loitering munition drones and spare parts for other equipment, Tai…
(2025-12-18). How media misrepresent politicians: Lukashenko explains with example of Kim Jong Un. eng.belta.by Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko shared his impressions of President of the State Affairs Commission of North Korea Kim Jong Un in an interview with the U.S. media company Newsmax.
(2025-12-18). NicaNotes: Trump's Interference Invalidates the Presidential Election in Honduras. afgj.org 
NicaNotes December 18, 2025 Note: NicaNotes will not publish on the next two Thursdays which are Christmas Day or New Year's Day. Happy Holidays! By John Perry (Nicaragua-based journalist John Perry writes for the London Review of Books, FAIR, Antiwar.com and Covert Action. This article was first published in Internationalist 360 ∞.) An extraordinary catalog of US…
(2025-12-18). Operation Condor: Transnational Murder Syndicate. scheerpost.com By Kit Klarenberg for his Substack On November 25th 1975, the 60th birthday of Chile's CIA-installed dictator General Augusto Pinochet, high-ranking representatives of the repressive secret police forces of Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay and Uruguay gathered in Santiago for a covert three-day summit. There, the quintet of US-sponsored Latin American fascist juntas forged an incendiary agreement. Dubbed 'Operation Condor' after …
(2025-12-18). US Prison Horror Show Plays On. popularresistance.org Hopes for a major restructuring of the federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) a year into President Donald Trump's second term in office have come to naught. | Trump in June named former federal prisoner Josh Smith as the BOP's deputy director. It was a bold and, in my view, progressive move. While greeted with hostility from the union representing federal corrections officers, it inspired hope among the tens of thousands of prisoners in federal custody. | Many of us thought that the next step would be something equally bold — perhaps to turn away from private prisons, which have cost the government millions of do…
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko: Trump can go down in history as president of peace. eng.belta.by Current occupant of the White House Donald Trump can go down in history as the president of peace, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said in an interview with the U.S. media company Newsmax.
(2025-12-18). Europe's 'Green' Emperor Is Naked and Cold. wattsupwiththat.com The European Union serves as a warning of what happens when ideology trumps physics. Climate mandates cannot make the wind blow. The "green" emperor has no clothes, and, baby, it's cold outside.
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko: There are hundreds of Belarusian agents among the self-exiled opposition abroad. eng.belta.by There are hundreds of Belarusian agents among the self-exiled opposition | abroad, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said while answering | questions following his Address to the Belarusian people and Parliament…
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko details arrest of man who injured three law enforcers. eng.belta.by The president noted as a positive fact that attitudes towards law enforcement in Belarusian society have improved significantly.
(2025-12-18). Caitlin Johnstone: Spouting the Same Line on Bondi Attack. consortiumnews.com Narrative spin for Israel is in full swing following the Bondi Beach attack, conflating pro-Palestinian activism with anti-Jewish violence. By Caitlin Johnstone Caitlin's Newsletter Listen to Tim Foley reading this article CN at 30 Looks like some kind of memo went…
(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). Bearing witness to Sudan war. aljazeera.com Sudan's war is devastating cities and displacing millions.
(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). First batch of zero-tariff petrochemical materials clears customs as Hainan launches island-wide operations. ecns.cn As China's Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) launched island-wide special customs operations Thursday, the first batch of petrochemical raw and auxiliary materials imported under the zero-tariff policy arrived at Yangpu Economic Development Zone.
(2025-12-18). Billionaires Are Encroaching on the Free Press. Let's Act to Defend It in 2026. scheerpost.com By Maya Schenwar & Negin Owliaei for Truthout It's becoming something of a theme: Two massive companies are fighting to take over another massive company, in a deal that will enrich a variety of shareholders but leave the rest of us worse off. The news that Netflix struck a bid to take over movie powerhouse Warner Bros. …
(2025-12-18). Hainan evolves as gateway to global markets. ecns.cn An e-commerce host guides customers through off-island duty-free online shopping in Haikou, Hainan province, on Wednesday. The Hainan Free Trade Port starts island-wide special customs operations on Thursday.
(2025-12-18). Jonathan Cook: Milking the Bondi Beach Massacre. consortiumnews.com Years of dedicated work by the Israel lobby has ensured the mass murder of Palestinians is viewed by governments, the media and parts of the Jewish community as entirely legitimate. By Jonathan Cook Jonathan-Cook.net CN at 30 I, for one, am…
(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). Is Committee to Protect Journalists scared of its pro-Israel donors? electronicintifada.net Annual awards ceremony brings in big money from Murdoch-owned media.
(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). Turkey seeks to return Russian S-400s to unlock US F-35 deal. newarab.com 
(2025-12-18). Hong Kong cancels 2026 New Year's Eve Fireworks. ecns.cn The 2026 Hong Kong New Year's Eve Fireworks will be replaced with a countdown event in Victoria Harbour, the Hong Kong Tourism Board announced Wednesday.
(2025-12-18). Has the EU Secretly Agreed to Fight Russia in Ukraine? thinktank.pk tensions between Russia and Europe remain high amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Public discourse has raised urgent questions about European involvement: Has the European Union committed to direct military engagement? Are member states ready to counter potential Russian aggression? Have UK military leaders signaled an imminent war? And is a large-scale European war truly …
(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). Israel bombs Lebanon again only to 'liberate it from Iran'. thecanary.co 
Israel has again slaughtered dozens of civilians in mass bombing attacks across southern Lebanon. They bombed eastern Lebanon's border with southern Syria, which is now largely occupied by the coloniser's military. The occupation forces attacked al-Jabour, al-Qatrani and al-Rayhan, as well as Buday and Hermel in the Bekaa Valley. They also targeted Wadi Al-Qusayr in […] | By
(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). US Senate confirms private astronaut, Musk ally Jared Isaacman as NASA chief. tribune.com.pk 
The US Senate on Wednesday confirmed billionaire private astronaut Jared Isaacman to become President Donald Trump's NASA administrator, making an advocate of Mars missions and a former associate of SpaceX CEO Elon Musk the space agency's 15th leader. | The vote on Isaacman, who Trump removed and then renominated as NASA administrator nominee this year, passed 67—30, two weeks after he told senators in his second confirmation hearing that NASA must pick up the pace to beat China back to the moon this decade. | Isaacman will lead an agency of about 14,000 employees as it invests billions of dollars into it…
(2025-12-18). Putin vows victory in Ukraine as US and Russia prepare for Miami talks. scmp.com Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed confidence in victory for his war in Ukraine during a meeting with senior military officials on Wednesday amid a renewed diplomatic push to achieve a peaceful solution to the conflict. | He said that more than 300 localities in the neighbouring country have been conquered this year alone. "Among them are also large cities that have been turned by the enemy into fortress nodes with permanent defensive installations," Putin said.
(2025-12-18). WATCH: CN Live! — Fallout From the Bondi Massacre. consortiumnews.com Examining the Bondi massacre, Michele Berkon, Jewish activist for Palestine, and Stefan Moore, filmmaker and Bondi resident, join CN Live! Watch the replay. CN at 30 The fallout from the Bondi Beach massacre in Sydney has unfortunately been predictable. As in…
(2025-12-18). Environmental Groups Urge Congress to Ban Data Centers. wattsupwiththat.com Environmental and democrat groups are lining up to oppose the artificial intelligence revolution, a technological advancement on the scale of the internet. The end result will be a victory for AI and common sense, and the failure of renewable energy and the ideology of Climatism, the fear of human-caused global warming.
(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). WHYY Newscast for Thursday 6:00 a.m. whyy.org The latest local headlines from WHYY…
(2025-12-18). Lukashenko explains why escalation in Ukraine is against Belarus' interests. eng.belta.by Answering questions after his Address to the Belarusian people and | parliament, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko explained why | continuation and escalation of the conflict in Ukraine is | disadvantageous for Belarus.
(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). Palestine Action hunger strikers are 'dying' in prison, UK doctor warns. aljazeera.com Hundreds of doctors, dozens of MPs and thousands of everyday Britons call on the justice secretary to intervene.
(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). 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). Man booked for assaulting domestic worker in Karachi's Buffer Zone. tribune.com.pk 
(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). Trump Media to merge with nuclear fusion company to power AI. aljazeera.com The all-stock deal comes amid growing energy needs for the tech sector.
(2025-12-18). El cielo nocturno en 2026: 12 acontecimientos. cubadebate.cu Alineaciones planetarias, Superlunas, las tradicionales lluvias de estrellas, dos eclipses totales, uno de Sol y otro de Luna, constituyen algunos de los principales acontecimientos astronómicos del 2026, que resalta la revista National Geografic.El año arranca con una Superluna que se acercará a Júpiter el 3 de enero, y una semana después el ese planeta alcanzará su oposición.
(2025-12-18). Titular de la ONU insta a defender derechos de los migrantes. cubadebate.cu El secretario general de la Organización de las Naciones Unidas, António Guterres, instó este jueves a defender los derechos de los migrantes en todo el mundo y a promover la solidaridad con esas personas.
(2025-12-18). Ballet Nacional de Cuba donará ingresos de dos funciones a damnificados por huracán Melissa. radiohc.cu La directora del Ballet Nacional de Cuba (BNC), Viengsay Valdés, anunció este miércoles que la compañía donará los ingresos de sus funciones de 'Don Quijote', de los días 19 y 20 de diciembre, a los damnificados del huracán Melissa. | El colectivo danzario, Patrimonio Cultural de la Nación, insta a quienes quieran colaborar con este noble fin a asistir a los primeros espectáculos de la temporada del clásico 'Don Quijote', en la sala Avellaneda del Teatro Nacional.Se trata de un ciclo muy especial porque contempla el debut de jóvenes figuras con muchos deseos de destacarse, entre ellos, Laura Kamila, Nadila Estrad…
(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). En Camagàºey aseguran carga para vehículos eléctricos de Etecsa (+ Fotos). cubadebate.cu El primer sistema fotovoltaico de la División Territorial de la Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Cuba (Etecsa) fue inaugurado hoy en el Taller de Transporte de la entidad con el propósito de dar sostenibilidad a la flota de ocho carros eléctricos recibidos en el año 2023.
(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). Un nuevo capítulo absurdo en la "guerra contra las drogas" nacla.org 
Las ejecuciones extrajudiciales de pescadores latinoamericanos y el indulto a un expresidente y narcotraficante hondureño revelan las letales contradicciones de la política estadounidense de la "guerra contra las drogas".
(2025-12-18). Máxima representante de la organización de féminas cubanas encabeza debates sobre Programa de Gobierno. radiohc.cu 
Para mirar profundamente cuánto más puede enriquecerse el Programa de Gobierno para corregir distorsiones y reimpulsar la economía, un grupo de federadas de la ciudad de Santa Clara sostuvieron un encuentro presidido por Teresa Amarelle Boué, miembro del Buró Político y Secretaria General de la Federación de Mujeres Cubanas. | ´Necesitamos que todo el pueblo conozca las interioridades de este programa, para que nuestra gente aporte soluciones, propuestas interesantes, sugerencias de lo que podemos aportar a este documento. En los diez objetivos, la FMC puede hacer mucho, desde la disminución del déficit fis…
(2025-12-18). Mbappe edges closer to Ronaldo record as Real survive Copa del Rey test. tribune.com.pk 
Kylian Mbappe moved tantalisingly close to Cristiano Ronaldo's calendar-year scoring record for Real Madrid with a brace as they earned a 3-2 victory at third-tier Talavera de la Reina on Wednesday to reach the Copa del Rey's last 16 after a pulsating encounter. | The French striker's two goals, combined with an own-goal by defender Manuel Farrando, proved enough despite strikes from Nahuel Arroyo and Gonzalo Di Renzo that threatened to spoil Real's evening in front of a raucous crowd. | Mbappe, who came into the game with 56 goals scored in all competitions in 2025, is now one goal shy of the 59-goal calendar…
(2025-12-18). Real Madrid Advances to the Round of 16 in the Copa del Rey of Spanish Football. radiohc.cu Havana, December 17 (RHC) — Real Madrid defeated Talavera De La Reina three goals to two today and advanced to the round of 16 in the Copa del Rey in Spanish football. | Frenchman Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring in the 41st minute from the penalty spot, an own goal by Manu Farrando (45+1) doubled the lead, and the French striker himself added a third in the 88th minute, while Nahuel Arroyo (80) and Argentine Gonzalo Di Renzo (90+1) sent the home crowd into a frenzy. | Meanwhile, Atlético de Madrid also defeated Atlético Baleares 3-2 with two goals from Frenchman Antoine Griezmann and one from Italian Giacom…
(2025-12-18). La OTAN declara que ´no es para siempre ª: Una lectura critica de la nueva Estrategia de Seguridad Nacional de los Estados Unidos. thealtworld.com Las clases dirigentes europeas se encuentran ahora aisladas, muy impopulares y despojadas de sus privilegios. Puedes leer …
(2025-12-18). Estados Unidos sanciona a dos jueces de la Corte Penal Internacional por investigar a israelíes por posibles crímenes en Palestina. cubadebate.cu Estados Unidos puso sanciones este jueves a dos jueces de la Corte Penal Internacional (CPI) por supuestamente investigar, arrestar o enjuiciar a ciudadanos israelíes sin el consentimiento de Israel y por votar a favor de la decisión de la Corte contra la apelación del Estado judío el 15 de diciembre. Los jueces sancionados son Gocha Lordkipanidze, de Georgia y Erdenebalsuren Damdin, de Mongolia.
(2025-12-18). Parlamento cubano aprueba Ley General de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación. cubadebate.cu La Asamblea Nacional del Poder Popular aprobó este jueves la Ley General de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación, como parte de un esfuerzo por consolidar un sistema que reconozca tanto la ciencia de vanguardia como la innovación basada en la experiencia práctica.
(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). Winter Solstice celebrations, last-minute holiday shopping, a One-Man Nutcracker performance and more in this week's 'Things To Do'. whyy.org 
It's the last weekend before a jampacked holiday week, and Philly is doing it big! Grammy Award winner CeCe Winans is bringing her Christmas tour to The Met Philadelphia, joined by sisters Angie and Debbie. On Friday, Del Arts Nights: 'A Jazz Before Christmas' brings the John Maurice Restrepo Quartet to the Delaware Art Museum. And close out your shopping list Saturday at Underground Arts, where the Pancakes & Booze Christmas Market pairs carbs, cocktails and more than 50 local artists in a laid-back, art-forward take on the holiday market. | On Sunday, Tuba Christmas returns to the Kimmel Center, uniting low-bra…
(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). "No Military Solution" : Is Peace Possible in Sudan as "Proxy War" Expands? democracynow.org 
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in Sudan, backed by the United Arab Emirates, is accused of attempting to cover up its mass killings of civilians by burning and burying bodies, according to a new report by Yale's Humanitarian Research Lab. This comes as drone strikes have plunged several cities into darkness, including Khartoum and the coastal city of Port Sudan. "We have the expansion of the war through Darfur, El Fasher, now Western Kordofan, which is an extremely important region economically. … And now we have this potential of the expansion of this war to South Sudan," says Sudanese…
(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…
(2025-12-18). Il dollaro, i BRICS e il nuovo sistema finanziario da costruire. strategic-culture.su L'avanzata della de-dollarizzazione e l'incertezza dei mercati occidentali hanno creato una situazione favorevole alla sperimentazione di alternative al cosiddetto "vecchio ordine". | Segue nostro Il problema che non è più un problema | Parliamo di BRICS+ e di moneta. L'incedere della de-dollarizzazione, l'incertezza dei mercati occidentali che sono passati ad una "economia di guerra", ha creato una situazione favorevole alla sperimentaz…