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On December 19, a spending bill backed by President-elect Donald Trump failed in the U.S. House of Representatives. Despite Trump’s efforts to pressure lawmakers to resolve funding issues before his January 20 inauguration, the bill was rejected by 38 Republicans who opposed its increased spending and impact on national debt. The failure to pass the bill leaves the U.S. government facing a shutdown starting at midnight on December 20, which would disrupt services and halt paychecks for over 2 million federal workers, affecting the holiday season. The bill, which resembled a prior bipartisan deal, was criticized by Trump and Elon Musk as a wasteful giveaway to Democrats. Key elements of the bill, including a pay raise for lawmakers, were dropped. At Trump’s urging, the bill also aimed to suspend debt limits for two years to ease the passage of future tax cuts, further increasing the federal government’s $36 trillion debt.
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Australia has announced a 190 million Australian dollar investment to enhance security in the Solomon Islands, including funding for additional police and the creation of a police training center in Honiara. This initiative is designed to reduce the Solomons' reliance on external security partners over time and build a stronger local police force. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that this investment would ensure the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force can maintain primary responsibility for security in the country. The move comes after concerns over a 2022 security pact between the Solomon Islands and China, which raised fears among U.S. allies, including Australia, about the potential establishment of a Chinese naval base in the region. In response, Australia has signed new security deals with Pacific nations like Papua New Guinea, Tuvalu, and Nauru, allowing it to effectively veto any security agreements with third parties, including China.
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On December 18, International Migrants Day, migrants and activists held protests in various locations to raise awareness of the challenges faced by migrants. In Tijuana, Mexico, activist Jose García emphasized the need for the incoming U.S. administration under President-elect Donald Trump to be more sensitive to migrant issues. In Ciudad Juarez, rumors that the U.S. would open its borders led to confusion, with migrants facing tear gas and low-flying helicopters as they approached the border. In Cucuta, Colombia, families of missing Venezuelan migrants demanded action from authorities, highlighting the anguish of those searching for loved ones who disappeared during migration. In Tapachula, Mexico, protests featured “welcome migrants” posters honoring migrant caravans. Concerns were raised about the uncertain future of migration policies, particularly with Trump’s plans to end programs like the migrant app and the U.S. sponsorship program. Additionally, nearly half of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. in 2022 came from Mexico.
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President-elect Donald Trump rejected a bipartisan plan to prevent a government shutdown, sending Congress into disarray just days before the deadline for federal funding. Trump demanded that House Speaker Mike Johnson and Republicans renegotiate the plan, urging them to be "smart and tough." The proposal included continued government funding along with a controversial provision to raise the national debt limit, which had been rejected by many Republicans in the past. Democrats condemned the GOP’s opposition, especially as the plan included vital disaster aid worth $100.4 billion for states affected by natural calamities. Despite these provisions, hard-right conservatives, influenced by Trump’s ally Elon Musk, rejected the plan due to its increased spending. Lawmakers were further displeased by pay raises included in the bill. The situation highlighted the difficulties Republicans face in unifying, especially as they prepare to take control of the House, Senate, and White House in 2024.
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On December 18, 2024, a Syrian Air plane took off from Damascus International Airport, marking the first domestic flight since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad on December 8. The flight, bound for Aleppo, symbolizes a significant moment in post-Assad Syria. Saad Kheir Beik, director of internal flights at the airport, confirmed that all staff and planes were ready for operations, and international flights would soon follow. The flight was filled with technical operators and members of the ‘This is our life’ youth group, highlighting the involvement of the younger generation in Syria’s future. Passengers, including Safa Othman, expressed joy over being part of this historic event, hoping it would lead to more travel opportunities for Syrian youth. The international community is closely watching Syria’s new rulers to ensure stability and avoid further violence, as the country struggles to recover from a devastating 13-year civil war.
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India-China discuss measures to maintain peace on border at 23rd Special Representatives meet. The 23rd Meeting of the Special Representatives (SRs) of India and China which was held in Beijing . It was attended by Ajit Doval, National Security Advisor (NSA) and Wang Yi, China's Foreign Minister.
"Over the past five years, with the joint efforts of both sides, relevant issues in the border area have been properly resolved, which is of great significance. India is willing to maintain fruitful communication with China in a pragmatic manner and continuously accumulate conditions for the final resolution of the border issue," said Doval. watch here for more details
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U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan stressed the need for a political solution to the Israel-Hamas conflict, warning that without one, the entire population of Gaza could become "radicalized," leaving no future prospects for peace. Speaking at an event with Eurasia Group President Ian Bremmer, Sullivan highlighted the unprecedented U.S. involvement in humanitarian aid during the conflict but noted that the government is always striving to do more in war zones like Gaza. He also addressed the threat of an ISIS resurgence following the fall of Bashar al-Assad in Syria, stating that ISIS is actively seeking opportunities to reconstitute and pose a global threat. Sullivan further emphasized the importance of cooperation between the outgoing Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration to present a unified message to both allies and adversaries in the Middle East. This cooperation is seen as essential for maintaining U.S. influence and stability in the region.
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A top U.N. official, Rosemary DiCarlo, called on world powers and Iran to urgently restore the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which lifted sanctions on Iran in return for restrictions on its nuclear program. The U.S. withdrew from the deal in 2018 under President Donald Trump, prompting Iran to gradually reduce its commitments. European and Iranian diplomats met recently to explore ways to ease tensions, especially regarding Iran's nuclear activities, before Trump's potential return to the White House. DiCarlo emphasized the importance of timely action, as the Security Council had enshrined the deal in a 2015 resolution. Britain, France, and Germany warned they could trigger the "snap back" of international sanctions on Iran if necessary to prevent nuclear weapon development. However, this option expires on October 18 next year. The IAEA reported that Iran has been rapidly accelerating uranium enrichment to levels close to weapons-grade purity.
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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan calls on the European Union to support the return of Syrian refugees who fled the civil war, emphasizing the need for an inclusive administration in Syria. Speaking at a joint press conference with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Erdogan also condemned terrorist groups in the region, while von der Leyen pledged additional EU funds for Syrian reconstruction and voluntary returns. The EU’s support will focus on safe repatriation and managing migration, with potential discussions on lifting sanctions tied to progress in Syria’s peaceful transition.
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A complex rescue operation is underway to free 32-year-old speleologist Ottavia Piana, who became trapped in the Bueno Fonteno cave near Bergamo after falling eight meters into an unexplored section. Despite suffering fractures to her legs, chest, and face, Piana remains alert and stable under medical supervision. Over 126 Alpine Rescue technicians are working to widen narrow passages using small explosive charges. The operation could take several days, with Piana's safe extraction expected by Thursday morning. This is not her first incident in the same cave, as she was previously trapped for 40 hours in July 2023
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On December 17, a bomb hidden in an electric scooter killed Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, head of Russia's Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Protection Troops (RKhBZ), and his assistant in Moscow. The explosion occurred outside an apartment building on Ryazansky Prospekt, about 7 km southeast of the Kremlin. Photographs from the scene showed a shattered building entrance and bodies in the snow. A criminal investigation has been launched. Kirillov’s unit, RKhBZ, is responsible for operating under hazardous conditions involving radioactive, chemical, and biological threats. The attack comes after Ukrainian prosecutors charged Kirillov in absentia with using banned chemical weapons in Ukraine, accusations Russia denies. Additionally, Britain sanctioned Kirillov and his unit in October for allegedly using toxic agents like chloropicrin in battlefield situations. Local residents reported hearing a loud bang, and there was no security at the residential block where the attack occurred. The Russian authorities are investigating the bombing.
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On December 17, a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu, causing widespread damage. Drone footage revealed multiple landslides, blocking roads near the international shipping terminal, with at least one container toppling over. Buildings and vehicles were damaged, and at least one person was reported killed. Several aftershocks followed the initial tremor. Australia’s Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, expressed solidarity with Vanuatu and pledged support, stating that Australia would provide the necessary assistance. Social media footage showed significant damage to buildings housing foreign missions, including those of the U.S., U.K., France, and New Zealand. Despite the destruction, Australian high commission staff were confirmed to be safe. Journalist Dan McGarry, who filmed the drone footage, described the quake as the most violent he had experienced in his 21 years in Vanuatu. Communication systems were also affected, and the full extent of casualties was unclear at the time.
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China's Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, emphasized that the Taiwan issue is one of the key "red lines" in the relationship between China and the U.S., which cannot be crossed. China claims Taiwan as its territory and rejects the island’s sovereignty, while the U.S. supports Taiwan’s government and provides military aid for its defense. Wang delivered a comprehensive speech on China’s foreign policy at a Beijing symposium, citing President Xi Jinping’s four red lines in U.S.-China relations. He reiterated China’s ongoing desire to maintain a stable relationship with the U.S., referencing President-elect Donald Trump. However, Wang made it clear that China will oppose any "illegal and unreasonable suppression" by the U.S., especially concerning Taiwan. Despite these tensions, Wang's remarks reflected China’s firm stance on Taiwan while also signaling its commitment to stable diplomatic ties with the United States, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect in international relations.
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Drone footage recently captured Rome’s festive transformation, showcasing the city’s eco-friendly approach during the Christmas season in anticipation of the Jubilee Year, which begins on Christmas Eve. One of the highlights is Via del Corso, adorned with a two-kilometer canopy of low-energy lights, featuring 49 water drop motifs symbolizing the importance of water and glowing globes representing global unity. These decorations align with the Jubilee's themes of hope and togetherness. In addition to the main historic center, suburban neighborhoods also glow with illuminated projections, spreading festive cheer throughout all districts. Rome is preparing for an influx of approximately 32 million tourists for the Jubilee, a significant event held once every 25 years. This year’s celebrations not only reflect the city’s rich traditions but also its commitment to sustainability, with environmentally conscious lighting choices and a focus on unity and environmental awareness.
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On December 16, 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused the West of pushing Russia to its "red lines" and warned that Moscow would take retaliatory actions if the U.S. deployed short and medium-range missiles. Putin emphasized that Russia would lift its own voluntary missile deployment restrictions in response. He also highlighted the control of 189 settlements in Ukraine by Russian forces this year, the increase in military recruitment with 430,000 new enlistees, and the strategic role of Russia’s nuclear deterrence. Furthermore, Putin suggested the possibility of unlimited increases in military spending to sustain Russia’s defense efforts amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
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Trucks were seen entering and exiting Syria’s main port of Latakia on December 16, following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Despite the political upheaval, the port continued to operate normally, with cargo ships unloading goods after several days of delay.
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Seven tourists, including four Australians, were hospitalized in Fiji after suspected alcohol poisoning at the Warwick Fiji Resort on the south coast of Viti Levu island. The tourists became ill after drinking a cocktail, and an investigation is ongoing by the resort, Fijian Health Ministry, and police. The Australian government expressed concern over the incident and offered consular assistance to the affected Australians. This comes a month after two Australian teenagers died from consuming contaminated alcohol in Laos. As a result, the Australian government updated its travel advisory for Fiji, warning travelers about the dangers of drink spiking and alcohol poisoning. Australians were urged to be vigilant when consuming drinks, not leaving them unattended, and to seek urgent medical help if they suspect something is wrong. The government also emphasized the importance of being alert to such risks while traveling. The incident highlights ongoing concerns over alcohol safety in popular tourist destinations.
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on December 14, discussing developments in Syria and efforts to secure the release of Israeli and foreign hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel has no interest in conflict with Syria but seeks to prevent threats from terrorist elements near its border. On the same day, Netanyahu announced plans to double the Israeli population in the Golan Heights, a region captured from Syria in 1967. Israel's government approved an $11 million plan to encourage demographic growth in the area. Amid ongoing instability in Syria, Israel sent troops into a long-standing buffer zone and conducted airstrikes on hundreds of military sites. The Israeli incursion was condemned by neighboring countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Jordan. Syria's leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, rejected Israeli claims and focused on rebuilding his country after the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad.
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At the Democratic National Committee’s holiday reception on December 15, U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris reflected on the achievements of their administration and expressed gratitude for their supporters. President Biden proudly stated that the country was in better shape than when they took office, asserting with confidence that the progress made was significant. Vice President Harris emphasized that true leadership is measured not by defeating others, but by uplifting those around you. Both leaders acknowledged the unwavering unity and dedication of their supporters, which they credited as key to their success. Biden and Harris were joined by their spouses, First Lady Jill Biden and Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, in this moment of celebration. The event served as an opportunity to recognize the achievements of their administration and to thank the Democratic Party for its vital role in supporting their efforts and fostering unity within the party.
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South Korean lawmakers voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol in a second impeachment motion, amid investigations into allegations of rebellion related to his controversial martial law decree. The motion passed with 204 votes, surpassing the required 200. Yoon’s martial law, which lasted only six hours, caused political unrest, halted diplomatic activities, and shook financial markets. Public protests escalated, with Yoon’s approval rating plummeting. Yoon defended his actions, claiming the decree targeted opposition forces. Yoon becomes the second South Korean president to face impeachment, following Park Geun-hye’s removal in 2017. The Constitutional Court will decide on his removal.
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Russia launched a large-scale aerial attack on Ukrainian fuel and energy facilities, using precision weaponry. The strike was a response to Ukraine's use of U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles against a Russian airport. Ukrainian President Zelensky condemned the attack as one of the most severe on Ukraine’s energy network. The Ukrainian Air Force intercepted 81 missiles and 80 drones. The EU reaffirmed strong support for Ukraine’s military, economic, and financial needs and its NATO and EU membership, though some EU countries remain hesitant. U.S. President-elect Trump disagreed with Ukraine’s missile strikes, while Kremlin spokesman Peskov reiterated Moscow’s terms for peace negotiations.
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The co-founders of luxury real estate brokerage Official, Oren, Tal, and Alon Alexander, have been arrested on sex-trafficking charges. Federal prosecutors accuse the brothers of drugging and sexually assaulting women for over a decade, starting in 2010. They allegedly lured women to parties or trips, where they raped them. The brothers face charges of sex-trafficking conspiracy and trafficking by force or coercion, with Tal facing an additional charge. Oren and Tal stepped down from their roles at Official in June. The brothers also face civil lawsuits. Prosecutors are prioritizing sex-trafficking cases, following recent convictions like Ghislaine Maxwell's.
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Unidentified flying objects, presumed to be drones, have sparked intrigue and conspiracy theories in New Jersey since Thanksgiving. Sightings have prompted Governor Phil Murphy to seek federal answers and Senator Andy Kim to investigate personally. Theories range from foreign interference to extraterrestrial activity, though officials report no national security threats. A Facebook group with nearly 44,000 members shares photos, videos, and theories, fueling speculation. Residents, like Trisha Bushey, express growing concern as sightings persist nightly. Despite reassurances, the objects remain unexplained, with hobbyists and experts agreeing they are not ordinary aircraft. The mystery continues to captivate public attention and debate.
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In Seoul, protesters demanding the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol are receiving support through online donations of hot coffee and snacks. Using delivery apps, people across South Korea pre-order drinks and food for the demonstrators, helping them endure the cold winter. The Royal Host cafe near the parliament has seen a surge in prepaid orders, with 1,000 cups of Americano already ordered for an upcoming rally. Some supporters unable to attend in person contribute by prepaying for items. Yoon survived the first impeachment attempt, but a second vote is scheduled for December 14, potentially sending the case to the Constitutional Court.
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A recent AP-NORC poll reveals significant doubts among Americans regarding President-elect Donald Trump's ability to select qualified cabinet members. Many are not confident in his choices, with only 30% expressing strong confidence in his selections. Trump's nominees, including Pete Hegseth and Tulsi Gabbard, have faced public scrutiny. Hegseth, an Army veteran, has low approval due to past controversies, while Gabbard, a former Democrat, receives mixed reactions. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Marco Rubio also face divided opinions. While Rubio enjoys strong support among Republicans, overall approval for his nomination remains limited. The poll underscores concerns over Trump's cabinet picks.
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NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressed grave concerns about the worsening security situation, stating that it is the worst in his lifetime and likely for others as well. He warned that NATO is unprepared for the threats Russia will pose in the coming years and called for a shift to a wartime mindset. Rutte emphasized the urgency of facing the dangers head-on, noting that the conflict in Ukraine could happen on NATO territory. He stressed that regardless of the war's outcome, NATO’s future security would remain at risk unless the alliance is prepared to confront the threats ahead. Rutte urged NATO members to accelerate defense production and spending, highlighting that NATO’s current target of spending 2% of GDP on defense is insufficient. Drawing comparisons to the Cold War, he pointed out that NATO members spent more than 3% of GDP on defense back then. He called for immediate action to secure NATO's future.
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China's recent large-scale military activities around Taiwan are seen as a power projection, signalling that Beijing can act at will. On December 13, China's defence ministry responded to questions about the drills, stating it was up to China to decide on military actions and reaffirming its opposition to separatism. Unlike previous war games, China has kept its activities low-profile, only offering explanations through the Taiwan Affairs Office, which described them as "necessary measures" for defending sovereignty. Taiwanese officials warn that China’s actions aim to challenge regional stability, especially along the "First Island Chain," while asserting its claim over Taiwan. Meanwhile, China asserted its right to hold military drills, while Taiwan activated emergency responses to increased activity. Beijing's territorial claim over Taiwan is rejected, with Taipei insisting its future lies with its people.
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Donald Trump plans to end birthright citizenship as he takes office on January 20. In this video, join @payal1303 as we break down birthright citizenship, the constitutional challenges involved, and how this controversial move could impact Indians living in the US. Experts weigh in on the legal hurdles, historical context, and broader implications for immigration policy. Will this proposal reshape America’s immigration system? Watch the full video to find out and share your thoughts in the comments!
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‘It is the birth of a nation,’ says Syrian interim PM, leading Friday prayers at Umayyad Mosque
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The White House recently reviewed reported drone sightings over New Jersey and the Mid-Atlantic region, finding no evidence of a national security or public safety threat. National Security spokesman John Kirby stated that many drones appeared to be lawfully operated manned aircraft. There were no reports of drones in restricted airspace, and the U.S. Coast Guard found no foreign involvement. While the FBI is investigating the sightings, asking residents to share any evidence, officials emphasized that the drones were not military aircraft. Although the number of sightings has increased, many may have been planes, or the same drone could have been reported multiple times. Concern arose when drones were spotted near sensitive locations such as the Picatinny Arsenal and President-elect Trump’s golf course. Drones are legal in New Jersey for recreational and commercial use, but must follow FAA regulations. Most drones spotted were larger than typical hobbyist models.
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On December 12, an Israeli airstrike targeted the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, killing at least 20 Palestinians, including several children. The attack hit a postal facility where displaced families had sought shelter, damaging nearby homes. Nuseirat, one of Gaza's eight historic refugee camps, was established for Palestinians displaced during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war and has since become a densely populated urban area. Earlier in the day, two Israeli airstrikes in southern Gaza killed 13 Palestinians, who Gaza medics and Hamas claimed were part of a group protecting humanitarian aid trucks. The Israeli military countered, stating that those killed were Hamas militants attempting to hijack the aid. The conflict, now in its 14th month, continues to cause widespread destruction and loss of life in Gaza. As of now, there has been no response from the Israeli military to requests for comment regarding the Nuseirat airstrike.
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The Pentagon dismissed claims by Congressman Jeff Van Drew that Iran is launching drones over New Jersey from a "mothership." Van Drew alleged an Iranian link to recent drone sightings, reported near Morris County and along the Raritan River. The FAA has restricted drone flights over Picatinny Arsenal and Trump National Golf Club. The FBI and New Jersey State Police have urged the public to report sightings. Pentagon assessments show no foreign involvement, and the drones posed no threat to military installations. Concerns remain over drone technology’s potential risks, prompting calls for greater transparency from law enforcement authorities.
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Donald Trump will ring the New York Stock Exchange opening bell on December 12, coinciding with his selection as Time magazine’s 2024 "Person of the Year." The bell-ringing, a prestigious tradition marking the trading day's start, has featured notable figures like Ronald Reagan and Nelson Mandela. Trump, who earned the title in 2016, joins a lineup that previously included Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and Taylor Swift. Known for leveraging stock market performance to tout his presidency's success, Trump returns to his roots as a New York real estate mogul while embracing his political resurgence with this symbolic and high-profile moment.
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China’s Taiwan Affairs Office stated it will not tolerate Taiwan’s "separatist" forces and reiterated its commitment to defending sovereignty and peace in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan's defense ministry reported increased Chinese military activity, including 53 aircraft near the island. The Taiwanese presidential office condemned these actions as a "blatant disruption" of regional security and stability. China has not confirmed military exercises but is deploying its largest naval fleet in nearly 30 years, signaling heightened tensions. Beijing’s actions are partly in response to President Lai Ching-te’s recent Pacific tour, which included stops in Hawaii and Guam, angering China’s government.
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India evacuated 75 citizens, including 44 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir, from Syria as Islamist rebels captured Damascus, forcing President Bashar al-Assad to flee. The evacuation, coordinated by Indian embassies in Damascus and Beirut, followed security assessments amid Syria's escalating civil war. Evacuees safely crossed into Lebanon and will return via commercial flights. Assad’s government, in power since the 1960s, fell on December 8 after a rapid 14-day conflict. Rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) declared Damascus "liberated" and pledged to protect civilians. The Indian government advised remaining nationals in Syria to stay connected with the embassy for updates.
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Former South Korean Defence Minister Kim Yong Hyun attempted suicide at a Seoul detention centre after his arrest on allegations of involvement in a failed martial law attempt. Kim is in stable condition following the unsuccessful attempt. He was arrested after a Seoul court approved a warrant related to his role in a rebellion and abuse of power, making him the first individual arrested in connection with the December 3 martial law decree. Kim had proposed the martial law to President Yoon Suk Yeol, triggering a nationwide investigation. A special police unit raided several government offices linked to the martial law declaration.
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Protesters demanded justice outside the Tel Aviv courthouse where Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took the witness stand on Tuesday (December 10) for the first time in his long-running corruption trial. Netanyahu, 75, is Israel's first sitting prime minister to be charged with a crime. He is testifying at the same time Israel is engaged in a war in Gaza and facing possible new threats posed by regional turmoil, including in Syria. Prosecutors accuse Netanyahu of granting regulatory favours worth around 1.8 billion shekels (about $500 million) to Bezeq Telecom Israel (BEZQ.TA) in return for positive coverage of himself and his wife Sara on a news website controlled by the company's former chairman. He is also accused of negotiating a deal with the owner of Israel's Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper for better coverage in return for legislation to slow the growth of a rival paper. Watch here for more details -
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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau discussed U.S.-Canada trade relations at an event with the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. He warned that Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian imports, tied to stopping illegal immigration and drug flows like fentanyl, would devastate Canada's economy and cause hardship for Americans. Trudeau called for national unity to counter the impacts and emphasised Canada’s readiness to respond to unfair tariffs, as it had in the past. Advocating for a "win-win" outcome, Trudeau highlighted the importance of maintaining healthy trade ties, benefiting businesses and citizens on both sides of the border amidst potential economic challenges.
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The Assad regime's 50-year reign in Syria has come to an end as rebels capture Damascus, forcing Bashar al-Assad into exile. While the world celebrates, India faces rising concerns over regional security, its economic ties with Syria, and the Kashmir issue. Could terror groups thrive in this power vacuum? Find out why this historic change matters for India.
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Donald Trump once again mocked Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, referring to him as “Governor Justin Trudeau of the Great State of Canada” on his social media platform, Truth Social. This comment follows Trump's earlier remark about making Canada the 51st US state. The jibe came after a dinner at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, where they discussed potential tariffs. Trudeau had previously warned that Trump's 25% tariff threat would raise prices for Americans and stated Canada would retaliate. Speaking at a Halifax event, Trudeau acknowledged that dealing with Trump would be more challenging this time, given Trump’s clearer agenda.
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F-1 student visas issued to Indian students in the US dropped by 38% in the first nine months of 2024, marking the lowest level since the pandemic. Only 64,008 visas were issued, compared to 103,495 in the same period in 2023. The decline comes amid reports of stricter US visa regulations under Donald Trump’s administration. Indian students remain a significant presence, constituting 29.4% of the international student population in US universities during 2023-2024. Experts attribute the decline to visa processing delays and extended interview wait times. Meanwhile, visas for Chinese students fell by 8% in the same period.
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is taking necessary security measures in response to the changes in Syria following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. Israel sees both opportunities and risks in the upheaval, with concerns about rising Islamist rebel forces, including those with Al-Qaeda links. Netanyahu instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to secure strategic areas, including the Syrian Hermon summit. The collapse of Assad's regime has led to Hamas's increasing isolation, potentially opening doors for a hostage deal, though it remains uncertain. Israel informed the U.N. Security Council about its temporary measures along the Syrian border, emphasizing that its actions focus solely on security, not intervening in Syria's civil conflict. The U.K. and the U.N. also expressed concerns about Syria’s future, while U.N. refugee chief Filippo Grandi called for patience as millions of refugees assess the safety of returning to Syria after 13 years of civil war.
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In an extended interview, President-elect Donald Trump discussed various policy areas, signaling shifts in tone and approach since his campaign. On the economy, he acknowledged that his planned tariffs might raise prices for American consumers, a departure from his earlier promises to reduce inflation and ease financial burdens. He also softened his stance on the Federal Reserve, stating he had no intention of asking Chairman Jerome Powell to step down. On immigration, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to sealing the U.S. southern border and deporting millions of undocumented individuals, including potential deportation of Dreamers, though he emphasized not wanting to separate families. He also suggested that birthright citizenship could be ended. Regarding foreign policy, Trump indicated that Ukraine should expect reduced U.S. aid under his administration. He reiterated his goal to end the Ukraine-Russia war but gave no specifics and was evasive about his conversations with Russian President Putin.
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Israeli troops were spotted in Syrian territory near the U.N.-monitored buffer zone with the occupied Golan Heights on December 9. Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar described the military presence as "limited and temporary," aimed at ensuring Israel's security and preventing threats in the aftermath of Syrian President Assad's potential overthrow. On December 8, Israeli forces entered the demilitarised zone, created under the 1974 Separation of Forces Agreement. Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed Israel's plans to target and destroy strategic weapons in Syria, including missiles and air defense systems. The upheaval in Syria presents both opportunities and risks for Israel amid shifting regional dynamics.
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Abu Mohammad al-Julani, commander of HTS, is a key figure in the Syrian civil war. Known for his role in the anti-Assad insurgency, al-Julani has shaped the rebel movement with his strategic and controversial leadership.
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In his first post-election television interview, President-elect Donald Trump outlined key priorities for his second term. He announced plans to take executive action on his first day in office to end birthright citizenship, a move expected to face legal challenges. Trump reiterated his plan to deport all illegal immigrants, prioritizing those convicted of crimes, and expressed interest in a future deal to protect Dreamers. He confirmed he would pardon January 6 rioters immediately upon taking office. Trump also discussed domestic policy, including his stance on Social Security, Medicare, and the federal minimum wage, while acknowledging challenges with the Affordable Care Act. On foreign policy, Trump indicated a tough approach on NATO, hinted at reducing U.S. military aid to Ukraine, and suggested tariffs could increase costs for American families. He also voiced a unifying message, pledging to treat all Americans equally, regardless of their political support.
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Syrian rebel forces claimed control of the capital Damascus on Sunday after a week-long lightning offensive, encountering no resistance from government troops, amid reports that President Bashar al-Assad has fled the country.
Assad, who ruled the country with an iron fist for 24 years, boarded a plane to an undisclosed location, according to senior Syrian military officials who spoke to Reuters. The army command has reportedly informed officers that the Assad regime has fallen.
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South Korean politician An Gwi-ryeong became a symbol of defiance after grappling with an armed soldier outside the National Assembly during a tense political standoff. This followed President Yoon Suk Yeol's unexpected declaration of martial law, which sparked widespread condemnation. Viral footage shows An grabbing the soldier’s rifle to block troops from interfering with lawmakers’ proceedings. Inside, 190 legislators successfully voted to overturn the decree, forcing Yoon to revoke martial law just six hours later. An described the confrontation as terrifying yet necessary, highlighting the fragility of South Korea’s hard-won democracy amid its struggle against authoritarian overreach.
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On December 5, 2024, Acting U.S. Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe engaged in a heated exchange with Texas Representative Pat Fallon during a House hearing investigating two failed assassination attempts on former President Trump. The exchange escalated when Fallon questioned Rowe about his attendance at a September 11, 2021, anniversary ceremony, asking whether he was there to provide protection for high-level officials. Rowe strongly objected, telling Fallon not to invoke 9/11 for political purposes and defended his presence at the ceremony, stating he was there to represent the Secret Service. Rowe also addressed ongoing issues within the agency, stating that he was working to eliminate the "do-more-with-less" mindset, which had degraded the Secret Service. He highlighted efforts to address staffing shortages, announcing plans to hire 650 special agents and 350 uniformed officers in the coming months. Despite the tense exchange, Rowe received praise from many Republicans for his cooperation with the investigation.
