Christians worldwide celebrate Christmas with enthusiasm
Millions of Christians worldwide commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ
Wall Street hovers near record levels and will close early
The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits fell last week and remain at historically healthy levels despite some signs that the labor market is weakening.
Thousands flock to Bethlehem to revive Christmas spirit after 2 years of war in Gaza
The city where Christians believe Jesus was born had cancelled Christmas celebrations for the past two years. Manger Square instead had featured a nativity scene of baby Jesus surrounded by rubble and
Russia plans a nuclear power plant on the moon within a decade
The moon is 384,400 km (238,855 miles) from our planet
Russian attacks on Ukrainian ports cause drop in food exports
Russian attacks on Ukrainian ports cause drop in food exports
Turkiye, Hamas discuss Gaza ceasefire deal's second phase, Turkish source says
Hamas says that humanitarian aid entering Gaza is not sufficient
South Korean lawmakers pass bill targeting false information despite warnings on censorship
The Democrats, who have failed to pass similar legislation under past governments, say the law is needed to counter a growing threat of fake news
US and Ukraine reach consensus on key issues aimed at ending the war but territorial disputes remain
How the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, the largest plant in Europe which is under Russian occupation, will be managed is another contentious issue.
Ex-aide says Netanyahu tasked him with making a plan to evade responsibility for Oct. 7 attack
Ex-aide says Netanyahu tasked him with making a plan to evade responsibility for Oct. 7 attack
Thai and Cambodia militaries hold talks on resuming ceasefire
At least 21 civilians have been in killed in Cambodia since the fighting
Putin has been briefed on US proposals for Ukraine peace plan, the Kremlin says
US President Trump wants to be remembered as a peacemaker
Chinese capital Beijing further eases home buying curbs
Families with more than one child will also be allowed to buy an additional home in downtown Beijing
Black box recovered from Libyan general's crashed plane
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya told reporters at the crash site that the plane's voice recorder and the flight data recorder (black box) had been recovered
How Israel's hilltop settlers coordinate attacks to expel Palestinians
Over time, similar modest dwellings have turned into sprawling Israeli housing developments, part of a plan to prevent the birth of a Palestinian state
Two police officers killed by bomb in Moscow near site of Russian general's killing
Russia's State Investigative Committee said that when two police officers approached a man who was acting strangely, they were killed by an explosive device, adding that a third person was also killed
Bangladesh's Tarique Rahman, seen as likely next PM set to return from exile ahead of polls
Rahman, 60, is the son of ailing former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and acting chairman of the party that is widely expected to come out on top in the parliamentary vote set for February 12
Syrian church marks Christmas and reaffirms faith months after deadly attack
“There’s no holiday, neither this year nor next year nor the one after it,” she said.
US judge tosses Trump challenge to New York immigration-related law
The judge rejected Justice Department's arguments that a New York law that restricts ability of Democratic-led state's Department of Motor Vehicles to share information with immigration authorities
US eyes additional Coast Guard assets to seize fleeing tanker, sources say
The days-long pursuit highlights mismatch between the administration's desire to seize sanctioned oil tankers near Venezuela and limited resources of the agency that is mainly carrying out operations
Trump's recall of ambassadors compounds staffing problems at posts in Africa
US embassies across Africa and the State Department's Africa Bureau in Washington have chronically been understaffed across several administrations
World is 'ready' for a woman at helm of UN: Chile's Bachelet tells AFP
Michelle Bachelet,74, who served two terms as Chile's president, was nominated for the UN's top job in September by her country's outgoing leftist leader Gabriel Boric
US Supreme Court rejects Trump's military deployment in Chicago area, for now
The order said the president's authority to take federal control of National Guard troops likely only applies in "exceptional" circumstances
Suspect and state trooper killed in Delaware shooting
Delaware State Police reported an active shooter at the Department of Motor Vehicles building in Wilmington just after 2 pm EST. Shortly after, police said there was no longer an active shooter
Blasts and fire shatter Pennsylvania nursing home, killing at least two
Five people were believed to be missing hours after the blasts and flames ravaged the Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol Township, about 33 km northeast of Philadelphia, Fire Marshal Dippolito said
U.S. eyes additional Coast Guard assets to seize fleeing tanker, sources say
The ship, which maritime groups have identified as the Bella 1, has refused to be boarded by the Coast Guard.
Lebanon denies any army link to Hezbollah after Israeli strike
Israel’s military said the men were involved in planning attacks against its forces and that two were members of Hezbollah’s air defence unit. It also alleged that one of them was serving in army
Israeli defence minister says no plan to resettle Gaza after hinting at one
Defence Minister Katz said the military would never leave all of Gaza and planned to station a type of unit – Nahal – that has historically played a role in establishing Israeli communities
Sean 'Diddy' Combs seeks immediate release from prison in appeals argument
They noted that Combs was convicted of two lesser counts, prostitution offenses that didn’t require force, fraud, or coercion.
Libya's military chief killed in plane crash in Turkiye
The head of Libya's armed forces and four other high ranking military officials died late Tuesday when their business jet crashed shortly after taking off from Ankara.
Bangladesh summons Indian envoy as protest erupts in New Delhi
Bangladesh on Tuesday summoned the top Indian envoy as fresh protests erupted outside its high commission in New Delhi over the mob lynching of a Hindu worker in Dhaka.
Greta Thunberg arrested at pro-Palestinian protest in London
London police on Tuesday arrested Swedish activist Greta Thunberg at a demonstration in support of pro-Palestinian hunger strikers.
Ukraine retreats in east as Russian strikes kill three, hit energy
Kyiv had to withdraw forces from Siversk, a town in heavily embattled Donetsk region on the way to two last strongholds held by Ukraine. Russia announced the capture of Siversk almost two weeks ago.
Venezuela passes law to jail backers of US oil blockade
Venezuela's parliament passed a law Tuesday that carries lengthy prison terms for any national supporting a United States' oil tanker blockade Caracas has termed piracy.
Glue strong enough to tow a car made from used cooking oil
Oil consists of long chains of fatty acids bound to molecules of glycerol (also known as glycerin).
Major Russian drone and missile attack on Ukraine kills at least 3 people and cuts power
In the southern Odesa region, Russia struck energy, port, transport, industrial and residential infrastructure, according to regional head Oleh Kiper.
Trump flew on Epstein jet eight times in the '90s, according to prosecutor email
US government releases nearly 30,000 pages of Epstein-related records, including an email alleging Trump flew on a private jet in the 1990s, while the Justice Department says some claims are unfounded
Six Pakistanis arrested in Saudi Arabia with 71kg drugs
Saudi authorities arrested six Pakistani nationals with 71kg methamphetamine in Riyadh, while foiling two other smuggling attempts and seizing over 200kg drugs.
Ukrainian troops withdraw from eastern town of Siversk
Sloviansk is a northern anchor of the so-called "fortress belt" of cities in Ukraine's heavily industrialised Donbas region, which Russia has demanded Kyiv cede before it ends its war.
Trump unveils plan for 'Trump-class' battleships to boost US sea power
In addition to the new battleship class, the Golden Fleet envisions an increase in the number of other types of war vessels.
Car bomb kills Russian general in Moscow
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that President Vladimir Putin had been immediately informed about the killing of Sarvarov, who fought in Chechnya and had taken part in Moscow’s military campaign
Hundreds protest in New Delhi over killing of Hindu man in Bangladesh
Factory worker Dipu Chandra Das, 27, was beaten and set on fire in Bangladesh's Mymensingh district last week by a crowd.
'He's going to pay': Israelis protest against Premier Netanyahu outside court
One protester said Netanyahu would pay for his "serious crimes," adding the protest would continue in order to ensure that the trial "goes as planned, that he does not receive a pardon"
Russian air attack on Ukraine kills three and knocks out power in most regions
Moscow's latest combined strike hit energy facilities in western regions the hardest
Russia and US discussed 'irritants' in relationship, key issues unresolved, Interfax reports
The two countries have been discussing ways to resolve a series of disputes that have affected the working of their embassies. The talks are separate from Russia-US negotiations over Ukraine war
Vietnam's next leadership taking shape as January congress nears
Lam is viewed as the leading contender to keep the country's most powerful post, but the announcements are expected only at the five-yearly party congress scheduled for January 19-25
Disputed Myanmar election wins China's vote of confidence
International monitors have dismissed the vote starting on Sunday as a charade to rebrand Myanmar's military rule since a 2021 coup, which triggered a civil war
Trapped under Israeli bombardment, Gazans fear the 'new border'
Residents say the attacks have targeted neighbourhoods east of the so-called Israeli-controlled Yellow Line – a demarcation established under the truce between Israel and Hamas
Trump says US needs Greenland for security, taps envoy to 'lead the charge'
Trump named Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry on Sunday as his special envoy to Greenland, drawing renewed criticism from Denmark and Greenland over Washington's interest in mineral-rich Arctic island
Syrian government and SDF agree to de-escalate after Aleppo violence
Syria's state news agency SANA, citing the defense ministry, said the army's general command issued an order to stop targeting the SDF's fire sources
Trump pulls 30 envoys in 'America First' push, critics say it weakens US abroad
The State Department declined to provide a list of the diplomats being recalled. A senior department official said it was "a standard process in any administration" but critics said that was not so
US Justice Department handling of Epstein file release sparks backlash
The Justice Department released thousands of documents on Friday related to Epstein, a convicted sex offender who committed suicide in 2019.
China likely loaded more than 100 ICBMs in silo fields, Pentagon report says
China is expanding and modernizing its weapons stockpile faster than any other nuclear-armed power, according to the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, a Chicago-based non-profit
NGOs fear 'catastrophic impact' of new Israel registration rules
New rules in Israel for registering non-governmental organisations, under which more than a dozen groups have already been rejected, could have a catastrophic impact on aid work in Gaza and West Bank
Deadly clashes in Aleppo as Turkey urges Kurds not to be obstacle to Syria's stability
At least three people were killed in the clashes, which came ahead of a deadline for implementing a March 10 agreement between Damascus and the Kurds to integrate the SDF.
Trump says would be 'smart' for Venezuela's Maduro to step down
Trump said Monday it would be "smart" for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to step down, as US naval forces pressed a blockade on the South American country's oil wealth.
Cambodia says Thailand launches air strikes after ASEAN meet on border clashes
Renewed fighting this month shattered a previous truce and has killed at least 23 people in Thailand and 20 in Cambodia, while more than 900,000 have been displaced on both sides.
Last of kidnapped Nigerian pupils handed over, government says
Authorities said the children, along with seven teachers and support staff, were the last batch of those taken by gunmen in the late November mass abduction in north-central Nigeria.
Bangladesh suspends visa services in Delhi and Siliguri after security incidents
Bangladesh has temporarily suspended visa and consular services in Delhi and Siliguri after protests and security incidents, while India rejected claims of threats to diplomatic safety.
US triples stipend offer to migrants who 'self-deport' to $3,000
US triples stipend offer to migrants who 'self-deport' to $3,000
Second student leader shot in Bangladesh days after Sharif Osman Hadi killing
Another student leader has been shot in Bangladesh days after Sharif Osman Hadi’s killing, with doctors confirming the injured NCP leader is now out of danger.
India's Parliament approves bill to open civil nuclear power sector to private firms
India is one of the world’s biggest emitters of planet-heating gases and over 75% of its power is still generated by burning fossil fuels, mostly coal.
China says US seizure of ships 'serious violation' of international law
Venezuela has the right to develop relations with other countries, China's foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a daily press briefing, adding that China opposes "unilateral and illegal" act
Kremlin frowns on latest Europe, Ukraine changes to peace proposal
The US-drafted proposals for an end to the nearly four-year-old war, leaked to the media last month, raised European and Ukrainian concerns that they were tilted too far in Russia's favour
Russian general killed in Moscow car bomb attack
Lt. Gen. Fanil Sarvarov, head of the Operational Training Directorate of the Russian Armed Forces General Staff, died from his injuries, official spokesperson for Russia’s Investigative Committee said
Kosovo heads to polls as political deadlock threatens vital funds
Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s Vetevendosje party won the last election in February, but failed to secure a majority or find a willing coalition party after an acrimonious campaign
South Korea parliament passes bill to launch probe into 2024 Jeju Air crash
An 18 MPs' panel will probe possible causes of the crash, including whether enough was done against the risk of a bird strike, any engine or mechanical failures and an embankment that the plane struck
Malaysia's jailed ex-PM Najib appears in court, house arrest bid dismissed
Najib, imprisoned since August 2022 for his role in the multi-billion dollar 1MDB scandal, was bidding to compel authorities to confirm the existence of and execute a royal order issued last year
Indonesian women cook 2.5 tonnes of rendang beef for Sumatra floods victims
Head of the West Sumatra Family Welfare Movement Harneli Bahar said the kitchen has managed to cook 2.5 tonnes of beef to make the dish, donated by locals. They have been cooking non-stop for six days
Ukrainian drone attack damages two vessels in Russia's Krasnodar, officials say
All crew on the ships at the Volna terminal on the Black Sea have been safely evacuated, the Krasnodar region’s operational headquarters said on the Telegram messaging app
Japan prepares to restart world's biggest nuclear plant, 15 years after Fukushima
Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, located about 220 km northwest of Tokyo, was among 54 reactors shut after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami crippled the Fukushima Daiichi plant
Global nuclear arms control under pressure in 2026
The first half of the year will see two key events: the US-Russia bilateral treaty, New START, expires on February 5, and in April, New York hosts the Review Conference (RevCon) of the Treaty on NPT
Israel accelerates outposts, roads construction for permanent presence in Gaza: Reports
Israel is laying the groundwork for a permanent military presence across large parts of the Gaza Strip, despite official denials of permanent occupation, according reports and analysis.
Israeli foreign minister urges Jews abroad to move to Israel after Sydney attack
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on Sunday called on Jews living in Western countries to move to Israel, citing what he described as a sharp rise in antisemitism.
Macron, on UAE visit, announces new French aircraft carrier
French President Emmanuel Macron said on Sunday he had given the official go-ahead to replace his country's flagship, the nuclear-powered Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier.
US, Ukraine hail 'productive' Miami talks but no breakthrough
US and Ukrainian envoys issued a joint statement on Sunday that hailed "productive and constructive" talks in Miami but did not announce any apparent breakthrough in efforts to end war with Russia.
US pursues third oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela
US coastguard ‘remains in active pursuit’ of a sanctioned dark fleet vessel trying to evade sanctions on Venezuela, an official says.
Nigeria says 130 kidnapped Catholic schoolchildren freed
Nigerian authorities have secured the release of 130 kidnapped schoolchildren taken by gunmen from a Catholic school in November.
UK's Starmer discusses Ukraine peace efforts in call with Trump
US negotiators met Russian officials in Florida on Saturday for the latest talks aimed at ending the conflict
Russian strike on Odesa kills 8 as US hosts a Kremlin envoy for talks on peace plan
Some of those wounded in Odesa were on a bus at the center of the strike late Friday, the emergency service said in a Telegram post. Trucks caught fire in the parking lot and cars were also damaged.
Trump's return brought stiff headwinds for clean energy. So why are advocates optimistic in 2026?
Much of clean energy’s fate in 2025 was driven by booster Joe Biden’s exit from the White House.
Iraq's political future in limbo as factions vie for power
The November election didn’t produce a bloc with a decisive majority, opening the door to a prolonged period of negotiations.
Serbia's students protest against university pressure after railway station tragedy
The demonstration is part of a wider movement confronting political interference in higher education
France to build new aircraft carrier, Macron tells troops based in Gulf
France remains one of Europe's leading military powers and is one of only five official nuclear-armed countries
Trump set to expand immigration crackdown in 2026 despite brewing backlash
So far, some 622,000 immigrants have been deported since Trump took office in January
Israeli Cabinet approves 19 new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank
Israeli Cabinet approves 19 new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank
Multiple gunmen open fire at a South African pub, killing 9 and wounding 10
Police did not release information about the victims, but police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili confirmed that an e-hailing driver was among those who were caught in the crossfire.
London court honors Pakistani teen hero for saving girl from knife attack
Abdullah Tanoli, Pakistani hero, knife attack, Leicester Square, UK news, bravery award, teen hero, security guard, hero saves girl, court recognition
Power restored for about 95,000 customers after major outage hits San Francisco
The outage caused traffic jams and forced some businesses to close temporarily
Trump's unshakeable hold on Republicans may be slipping
Like all US presidents who cannot seek another term, Trump faces the inevitable waning of power in his second year. But he also begins the New Year with an erosion in political support
US intelligence indicates Putin's war aims in Ukraine are unchanged
The reports present a starkly different picture from that painted by US President Donald Trump and his Ukraine peace negotiators, who have said Putin wants to end the conflict
Australia honours Bondi Beach attack victims; PM Albanese booed
The nation marked a day of reflection to honour the 15 people killed and the dozens wounded in the attack by two gunmen at Sydney's Bondi Beach.
Nine killed, 10 injured in South Africa shooting, police hunt for suspects
The incident occurred just before 1 am local time (2300 GMT) at a licensed tavern in Johannesburg's Bekkersdal township, the police said in a statement.
At least 16 Epstein files have disappeared from the DOJ webpage
The Justice Department didn’t answer questions on Saturday about why the files disappeared
Republican critics fear incomplete disclosure of Epstein files will loom over midterms
a handful of Republican lawmakers and right-wing media figures joined Democrats in blasting Friday's disclosures as inadequate and possibly in violation of a law that prompted their release
US, Russian officials meet in Florida for more Ukraine talks
The Miami meeting followed US talks on Friday that has sparked some hope of a resolution to the conflict that began when Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022
Lebanon close to completing disarmament of Hezbollah south of Litani River, says PM
The US-backed ceasefire, agreed in November 2024, ended more than a year of fighting between Israel and Hezbollah and required the disarmament of the Iran-aligned group in areas adjacent to Israel
US intercepts oil tanker off Venezuelan coast, officials say
It’s the second time in recent weeks that the United States has gone after a tanker near Venezuela amid a large US military build-up in the region
Children among five killed in Israeli attack on school shelter in Gaza City, hospital chief says
The Palestinian civil emergency service said in a statement that most of the killed were children, and added that a number of wounded had been transferred to hospitals for treatment
EU, Pakistan discuss broader cooperation at Brussels talks
The security situation in Afghanistan, threats emanating from its territory, and the need for sustained humanitarian assistance were also discussed.
Friendship with Pakistan will continue to strengthen: Erdogan
The Turkish President said that his country is providing PNS Khyber to the Pakistan Navy, and that PNS Khyber has successfully completed all the testing stages.
UK's Prince William and son George volunteer at homelessness charity
UK's Prince William and son George volunteer at homelessness charity
Netanyahu plans to brief Trump on possible new Iran strikes, NBC News reports
Israeli officials are concerned that Iran is reconstituting nuclear enrichment sites the US bombed in June
Brazil's Lula warns US intervention in Venezuela could be catastrophic
President Trump has ordered a blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela
Iran executes man accused of spying for Israel, judiciary's news outlet says
The Iran-Israel conflict escalated into a war in June
US offers new talks format including Russia and Ukraine, Zelenskiy says
US negotiators were set to meet Russian officials in Florida on Saturday
China envoy visits Cambodia seeking to de-escalate fighting with Thailand
Around 60 people have died and more than half a million have been displaced since the two nations resumed hostilities
Tens of thousands attend state funeral of Bangladesh student leader
Police wearing body cameras deployed in front of parliament building where funeral prayers held
China discovers Asia's largest offshore gold reserve
China has discovered Asia’s largest offshore gold reserve near Yantai, boosting Laizhou’s proven reserves to 3,900 tonnes and strengthening the country’s mining potential.
7 elephants killed in India train accident
According to parliamentary figures, 629 people were killed by elephants across India in 2023-2024
Pete Davidson and Elsie Hewitt welcome their 'perfect angel girl'
The two went Instagram official with their relationship in March.
Is an 'Arab NATO' possible in today's Middle East?
Arab and Muslim countries are once again debating the creation of a NATO-style military alliance, as Israeli strikes on Doha and wider regional tensions sharpen concerns about collective security.
NGOs fear 'catastrophic impact' of new Israel registration rules
New rules in Israel for registering non-governmental organisations could have a catastrophic impact on aid work in Gaza and the West Bank, relief workers warn.
Iraq negotiates new coalition under US pressure
More than a month after Iraq's parliamentary elections, the country's top leaders remain locked in talks to form a government.
Trump doesn't rule out war with Venezuela
US President Donald Trump left open the possibility of war with Venezuela, as his top diplomat Marco Rubio vowed Friday.
Presses fall silent after mobs torch offices of Bangladesh's top newspapers
The country of 175 million people has been on edge since a student-led uprising toppled Sheikh Hasina's government
Flights cancelled, roads flooded as rare storm soaks UAE
Other Gulf states also experienced heavy rain, including Qatar
Three killed in Taipei metro attacks, suspect dead
The suspect wore a mask and threw "five or six gasoline bombs or smoke grenades" at Taipei Main Station.
India's Adani seeks to operate more airports as part of $11 billion expansion
Adani Airports manages seven airports across India
China, US seek Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire ahead of ASEAN meeting
Around 60 people died and more than half a million have been displaced since hostilities resumed last week
French government calls for Christmas truce in farmer protests
Farmers gathered with tractors in front of President Emmanuel Macron's residence
Bangladesh government urges calm in wake of youth leader's killing, as election looms
The unrest follows fresh anti-India protests this week
What to know about the EU's new $106 billion loan to Ukraine
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had brought to Thursday’s summit two proposals to keep Ukraine afloat.
Spread of Gaza famine has been averted yet strip still faces starvation, experts say
The agency adheres to the ceasefire and allows the agreed amount of aid to reach the strip, COGAT said, noting the aid quantities “significantly exceed the nutritional requirements of the population”
Sri Lanka farmers face daunting task of replanting after cyclone
Replanting is a daunting task after Ditwah flooded crops across 535,000 hectares
Israel charges Russian with allegedly spying for Iran
Iran has executed many individuals it accuses of having links with Israel's Mossad intelligence service
Pope Leo names new leader of the Catholic Church in London
Moth will replace Cardinal Vincent Nichols who held the post for 16 years and who turned 80
US suspends green card lottery after campus shooting
The decision follows shooting incidents at Brown University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Seven dead in fatal plane crash including former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle
The North Carolina Highway Patrol said it is believed that Biffle and members of his immediate family were among those killed but because of a severe fire a formal confirmation has not been completed
Judge found guilty of obstructing arrest in Trump immigration crackdown
Media reports said the federal jury delivered a mixed verdict on Hannah Dugan, 66, an elected judge on the Milwaukee County Circuit Court, acquitting her of one of the two charges she faced
Norway's crown princess needs lung transplant, palace says
The 52-year-old wife of Crown Prince Haakon, the heir to throne, was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2018, a chronic disease that causes scarring in the lungs and leads to a reduced oxygen uptake
Australia's 'Bondi Hero' handed $1.65 mln collected from fundraising
Ahmed al Ahmed hid behind parked cars before charging at one of the gunmen from behind, seizing his weapon and knocking him down. He suffered gunshot wounds after being fired on by the other attacker
EU leaders agree to provide 90 billion euros to fund Ukraine, setting aside plan to use Russian frozen assets
The idea of EU borrowing initially seemed unworkable as it requires unanimity and Hungary's Russia-friendly Prime Minister Viktor Orban had opposed it
Notable deaths of 2025
Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff shunned much of the papacy’s pomp, softened Catholic attitudes towards homosexuality, and put more women in senior roles than any predecessor
Violence erupts in Bangladesh after wounded youth leader dies
Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Dhaka after the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, 32, was announced, to demand that his killers be arrested
US hosting new Gaza talks to push next phase of deal
Trump's roving special envoy Steve Witkoff is to meet senior officials from Qatar, Egypt and Turkey in Florida, a White House official said.
Have Iran's authorities given up on the mandatory hijab?
Strict dress code for women has required they wear the hijab in public since shortly after the 1979 revolution that ousted the pro-Western shah.
Dubai warns residents to stay indoors because of rain
Dubai police on Thursday urged residents to stay indoors unless it was "absolutely necessary" as heavy rainfall was expected in the desert country.
Famed Kennedy arts center to be renamed 'Trump-Kennedy Center'
White House announced Thursday that Washington's iconic John F. Kennedy arts center is to be renamed the "Trump-Kennedy Center" after President Donald Trump
India's rising defence spending fuels regional security concerns
India plans major defence budget hike, widening gap with Pakistan and raising concerns over regional stability as New Delhi accelerates weapons purchases under its Atmanirbhar policy.
Israel launches intense airstrikes in Lebanon as deadline looms to disarm Hezbollah
Gen. Fabien Mandon, the French armed forces’ chief of staff, posted on X Thursday that he discussed with Haikal the strategic environment and security challenges in Lebanon and the region.
Belgian farmers in anti-trade protest clash with police
Police intervened when the violence escalated and sought to arrest some of the protesters
China voices support for Venezuela amid US blockade, but makes no aid pledges
Trump ordered a complete blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers attempting to leave Venezuelan waters
Germany to take in more than 500 stranded Afghans from Pakistan
Pakistan had set a deadline for the end of the year for the Afghans’ cases to be settled
Turkey warns Russia and Ukraine over Black Sea security after shooting down drone
Turkish authorities have not disclosed the drone’s origin.
Israel fires mortar into Gaza residential area, wounding at least 10
It was not the first time since the ceasefire took effect on Oct. 10 that Israeli fire has caused Palestinian casualties outside the Yellow Line.
India signs trade pact with Oman as it expands Middle East ties
India and Oman have annual trade of more than $10 billion
Pope Leo replaces New York's Cardinal Dolan in shake-up of US Church
Leo, the first US pope, appointed a relatively unknown cleric from Illinois
Unreliable data mask just how bad the air quality crisis is in India
The program has seen relative success, providing millions of dollars for monitors and water-spraying machines to reduce dust generated from vehicles plying the roads
US approves $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan, largest ever
The Taiwan arms sale announcement is the second under President Trump's current administration
India streamlines visa rules in boost for Chinese professionals
New Delhi blocked virtually all Chinese visits after nuclear-armed neighbours clashed on Himalayan frontier in 2020.
Dolphins are benching Tua Tagovailoa for rookie Quinn Ewers against the Bengals
McDaniel said the decision came down to who he felt gave the Dolphins the best chance to win.
Saudi, French and US officials push Hezbollah disarmament plan
Israel and Lebanon agreed to a US-brokered ceasefire in 2024, ending more than a year of fighting between Israel and Hezbollah that severely weakened the Iran-backed militants
Over 1,000 civilians killed in Sudan's Darfur when paramilitary group seized camp, UN says
"Such deliberate killing of civilians or persons hors de combat may constitute the war crime of murder,” said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk in a statement accompanying the report
Ukraine says 180,000 consumers were left without power after Russian overnight attack
The minister said that the southern regions of Mykolaiv and Zaporizhzhia, the central regions of Cherkasy and Dnipropetrovsk, and the north-eastern region of Sumy were attacked during the night
Pakistan, Libya agree to boost defence ties during Field Marshal Asim Munir's visit
Field Marshal Munir was accorded a guard of honour by the Libyan armed forces.
Brown University gunman 'could be anywhere' on fifth day of manhunt
It is rare but not unprecedented for the perpetrator of a high-profile attack to evade capture for multiple days. But the lack of any identification has left people in the area on edge
In holiday speech, Trump highlights victories amid sinking approval ratings
"Eleven months ago, I inherited a mess, and I'm fixing it," Trump said in a speech that lasted less than 20 minutes and was delivered at a jarringly rapid-fire pace
Pakistan urges global action against India for sudden change in Chenab water flow
Tahir Hussain Andarabi said that since December, unusual fluctuations have been observed in the water level of the Chenab.
Australia promises crackdown on hate as Bondi Beach shooting victim Matilda is farewelled
Matilda's middle name was Bee, which inspired attendees to wear bee stickers, and bring bee-themed toys and balloons, while some mourners wore yellow
UN report says Afghan soil being used by militant groups for cross-border attacks
The findings appear in the 16th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team, submitted to the UNSC, amid growing international concern over Afghanistan’s security situation
Takeaways from Trump's year-end address to the nation
Trump began his remarks with 14 words that captured the central theme of the night: "Good evening, America. Eleven months ago, I inherited a mess, and I'm fixing it"
Winter storms worsen Gaza humanitarian crisis as UN says aid still blocked
United Nations has said it has tents, blankets and other essential supplies ready to enter Gaza, but that Israeli authorities continue to block or restrict access through border crossings.
US Congress ends Syria sanctions
US Congress on Wednesday permanently ended sanctions imposed on Syria under ousted leader Bashar al-Assad, paving the way for the return of investment to the war-ravaged nation.
German MPs approve 50 bn euros in military purchases
Germany accelerates defence spending in the face of a hostile Russia and signs of weakening security commitments from Washington.
US Congress passes defense bill defying Trump anti-Europe rhetoric
US lawmakers on Wednesday passed a sweeping defense policy bill, signaling ironclad bipartisan support for Europe.
Zelensky says Russia preparing for new 'year of war'
Zelensky said Wednesday Russia was preparing to wage a new "year of war" on his country in 2026, after his counterpart Vladimir Putin said Moscow would "certainly" achieve its objectives.
Heartbroken medic, whose veil was pulled by Indian state CM, decides not to join govt job
Parveen is supposed to join the service on December 20. However, according to her family members, she has decided against it
Putin warns that Russia will seek to extend its gains in Ukraine if peace talks fail
Putin warns that Russia will seek to extend its gains in Ukraine if peace talks fail
More drops for AI stocks drag Wall Street toward a 4th straight loss
South Korea’s Kospi leaped 1.4% for one of the world’s bigger gains and shaved its loss for the week so far down to 2.7%.
Trump administration to dissolve key climate research agency
The move is the Trump administration's latest effort to gut US research related to climate change
South Africa arrests Kenyans working on US refugee applications
The incident is likely to worsen already bad relations between Washington and Pretoria
India summons Bangladesh envoy over security concerns in Dhaka
Bangladesh is preparing for a national election on February 12
UN chief Guterres urges maximum restraint in Yemen after separatist advance
Antonio Guterres has just returned from a visit to Saudi Arabia and Oman
Mexican president calls on UN to avoid bloodshed in Venezuela
President Sheinbaum says that Mexico is against intervention and foreign interference in Venezuela
Bondi shooting: Tarar condemns misinformation campaign by 'hostile countries' against Pakistan
Ataullah Tarar condemns false Bondi Beach media claims against Pakistan, clarifies attacker’s Indian origin, praises Australia’s investigation while highlighting India’s role in funding terrorism
From hospital beds, Cambodian soldiers describe 'toxic gas'
Thailand and Cambodia have been locked in a border conflict that has killed more than 40 people
Supporters of Tunisia's Saied rally amid deepening political divisions
The rival rallies come amid a deepening economic crisis marked by high inflation
Sydney shooter Sajid Akram's Indian passport revealed
Indian embassy had early knowledge of Bondi Beach attacker’s citizenship but global media was misled
Knicks win NBA Cup after rallying to beat Spurs 124-113
“This is great and we’re going to enjoy this,” Brunson said. “But once we leave tomorrow, we’re moving on.”
Rob Reiner's son Nick set to appear in court on 2 counts of murder in killing of his parents
Hochman said his office has not yet decided whether to seek the death penalty in the case.
China's newest aircraft carrier sailed through Taiwan Strait, Taipei says
Taiwan, which Beijing views as its territory, reports almost daily Chinese military activity around it in what Taipei views as an ongoing pressure campaign against democratically elected government
Ukraine drone debris sparks fire at Russia's Slavyansk refinery, authorities say
There were no casualties reported at the Slavyansk refinery, which Kyiv has repeatedly targeted since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022
Sydney mourners remember slain rabbis killed in Bondi Beach shooting
A Bondi synagogue was overflowing for the funeral of Rabbi Eli Schlanger on Wednesday morning, a few blocks away from the beach where he was gunned down
Alleged Bondi gunman charged with 15 murders as funerals of victims begin
New South Wales Police said that a man had been charged with 59 offences, including 15 counts of murder, 40 counts of wounding with attempt to murder, as well as a terror offence and other charges
Myanmar junta says Suu Kyi 'in good health' after son raises alarm
Suu Kyi, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, was detained after a 2021 military coup that ousted her elected civilian government and sparked a civil war
Authorities still trying to identify Brown University gunman three days into manhunt
Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez said investigators were hoping someone might recognize the person based on his body movements, posture and bearing
Trump orders 'blockade' of sanctioned oil tankers leaving, entering Venezuela
Blockades have traditionally been treated as permissible “instruments of war,” but only under strict conditions. “There are serious questions on both the domestic and international law fronts"
Dembele and Bonmati scoop FIFA Best awards
France and Paris Saint-Germain attacker Ousmane Dembele won the men's FIFA Best award at a ceremony in Qatar on Tuesday.
Fresh rains flood streets in war-scarred Gaza
The rains have flooded tents and makeshift shelters in Gaza, where most of the buildings have been destroyed or damaged by two years of war between Israel and Hamas.
Israel's new demolition order threatens West Bank refugee camp: UNRWA
Israel has issued new demolition orders for the Nur Shams camp in the north of the occupied West Bank.
Trump imposes full travel bans on seven more countries, Palestinians
President Donald Trump on Tuesday expanded a US travel ban by barring nationals of seven more countries including Syria, as well as Palestinian Authority passport holders
Trump has 'alcoholic's personality,' chief of staff says in bombshell interview
Trump said Tuesday he stood by his chief of staff Susie Wiles after she said the US president had an "alcoholic's personality" in an astonishing interview with Vanity Fair.
Thailand says Cambodia must announce ceasefire 'first' to stop fighting
Thailand said Tuesday that Cambodia must be first to announce a truce to halt fighting between the two nations after more than a week of deadly clashes.
Zelenskyy says proposals to end the war in Ukraine could be presented to Russia within days
The security proposal will be based on Western help in keeping the Ukrainian army strong, an official from a NATO nation said, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive matters.
US military says it carried out strikes on three vessels in eastern Pacific
The US struck more than 20 vessels in the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea near Venezuela as part of a military campaign President Trump has launched on drug smuggling from the region.
'Assault on dignity': Amnesty reacts to hijab removal incident involving Bihar chief minister
Amnesty International condemns Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar after a video shows him pulling down an Indian Muslim woman’s hijab during an official appointment ceremony.
Family of Bondi hero in Syria says his home country is proud of him
Family of Bondi hero in Syria says his home country is proud of him
Bondi Beach attacker was Indian national, confirm Telangana Police
Indian authorities have confirmed that one of the Bondi Beach shooters was from Hyderabad, while his son, the second attacker, remains critically injured in Australian hospital.
