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The article discusses how the increasing use of AI in American classrooms is accelerating a backlash against technology in education, with a resurgence of traditional methods such as handwritten and oral exams. The sales of 'blue books' (bound exam booklets) have more than doubled between 2022 and 2024, indicating a shift away from computerized testing. The article draws a historical parallel with a Harvard professor, Evangelinus Apostolides Sophocles, who protested the introduction of blue books in 1857, to highlight the cyclical nature of educational technology trends.

Brazil has declared November as 'Black Consciousness Month' and introduced a new federal public holiday on November 20th to commemorate the capture and execution of Zumbi dos Palmares, the leader of the largest settlement of runaway slaves in Brazilian history. This move reflects the growing interest among Brazilians in their African roots and heritage. The article highlights how Brazil, having imported the largest number of African slaves, is now embracing its African legacy.

The article discusses the aesthetics of power through the lens of Donald Trump and Jamie Dimon, reflecting on their architectural exploits and how they relate to their leadership styles. The newsletter 'Checks and Balance' by Charlotte Howard, the executive editor and New York bureau chief, touches upon various other topics including the surge in executions by the Supreme Court, the impact of AI on American classrooms, and the issue of corruption in Washington.

The article discusses the upcoming presidential campaign in Chile, where crime and violence have become the top concerns for citizens. Many Chileans blame recent immigrants for the rise in violent crime and unemployment. The article highlights the growing insecurity and anti-immigrant sentiment in Chile, setting the stage for a potential sharp right turn in the country's politics.

The article discusses Cuba's dire economic situation, where the average monthly wage is insufficient to cover basic necessities, leading to widespread poverty and reliance on international aid. The author argues that the country's regime must change drastically to avoid disaster. The article highlights the struggles of ordinary Cubans, with professionals earning meager salaries and low-paid workers struggling to afford staple foods. The UN's World Food Programme is now helping to keep Cuban children alive, a stark indication of the country's dire situation.

The article discusses the rise of 'insider capitalism' under President Donald Trump's administration, where access and connections are becoming increasingly valuable in America. The trend is seen in various sectors, including finance, technology, and Wall Street, where the lines between elites and ordinary people are blurring. The article argues that while the rhetoric of populism is prevalent, the reality is that those with access and connections are reaping the benefits.

The article discusses the challenge of replacing CEOs like Tim Cook of Apple and Warren Buffett, who have achieved remarkable success during their tenures. It highlights Cook's impressive record at Apple, where he has increased annual sales from $108 billion to $416 billion and market capitalization from $350 billion to $4 trillion since taking over from Steve Jobs in 2011. The article notes that only a few CEOs, such as Jensen Huang of Nvidia, Satya Nadella of Microsoft, and Sundar Pichai of Alphabet, have created comparable shareholder value. The difficulty of finding a suitable replacement for such successful CEOs is emphasized.

The article from The Economist compares the evolving presidency of Donald Trump to that of Joe Biden, suggesting that Trump is adopting similar policies and approaches that Biden was criticized for. The article reflects on how Biden's administration was once hailed as extraordinary and transformative, much like Franklin Roosevelt's, but has since faced criticism. It implies that Trump's shift towards more populist and possibly controversial policies mirrors some of the criticisms leveled against Biden, indicating a potential convergence in their political strategies or public perceptions of them.

The article discusses the ongoing debate about healthcare costs in the United States, particularly in light of the recent government shutdown. The author argues that instead of populist schemes, politicians should consider smaller-scale reforms to curb healthcare spending growth. The article suggests three places to start making changes and notes that the current proposals, such as Donald Trump's 'cash-in-your-pocket' health policy, risk upending the insurance market. The author emphasizes the need for impactful changes to address the soaring healthcare costs in America.

The Galápagos Islands, a unique ecosystem located 1,000km off Ecuador's coast, face the challenge of preserving their rare animals and plants due to an increasing number of visitors. Since 1959, 97% of the islands' surface area has been designated a national park. The article discusses the potential solution of increasing the entry fee to the islands as a means to manage tourism and protect the environment. The higher entry fee may be helping to mitigate the impact of tourism on the islands.

The article discusses the pervasive culture of corruption and influence peddling in Washington D.C., drawing parallels between the Maori concept of 'hau' or life force in gift-giving and the transactional nature of politics in the U.S. capital. It highlights how the government has seemingly given up on prosecuting corruption, allowing a culture where everything appears to be for sale.

The article discusses how Indians are becoming more fashionable due to factors like cheap data, affordable clothing, and improved logistics. It highlights how these changes have made fashion trends more accessible to the masses, affecting traditional shopping streets like Mumbai's Hill Road. Shop owners like Sheikh Aziz attribute the decline in foot traffic to online shopping.

The article discusses Omar García Harfuch's appointment as Mexico's security minister and his efforts to tackle the country's drug gangs. Harfuch, who previously served as Mexico City's security chief, implemented an intelligence-led approach that led to a 40% drop in the murder rate during his tenure. He is now applying this approach on a national scale, and many Mexicans believe he is their best hope for stemming the violence that has plagued the country for years. The article highlights Harfuch's popularity and his potential to make a significant impact on Mexico's crime situation.

The article discusses the recent surge in executions in the United States, particularly in Florida, and how the Supreme Court's decisions have contributed to this trend. A group of Catholics from Daytona Beach regularly attends executions at the Florida State Prison, and this year they have attended 17 executions, a significant increase from last year's single execution. The article explores the context and implications of this increase in capital punishment.

The article discusses how private equity firms are reshaping the American child care industry by acquiring and consolidating child care centers, introducing scale and efficiency but raising concerns about quality. The trend is exemplified by the experience of Verna Esposito, who runs an independent child care center in Greenwich, Connecticut, and has been courted by private equity firms. While some see the involvement of private equity as a positive development, others worry about the potential impact on the quality of care.

The article discusses the growing trend of fictional depictions of gangs in Latin America, particularly in television and film, and how it is sparking debate among the public. The success of shows like 'Narcos' has led to a proliferation of gang-related content, with some critics arguing that it glamorizes crime. The article highlights the financial success of these shows, with 'Narcos' and its follow-ups accounting for 40% of Netflix's revenue from Latin American crime titles. It also touches on other examples of gang-related content, such as the film 'Emilia Pérez', which received 13 Oscar nominations. The article suggests that this trend is not only a reflection of the region's fascination with crime stories but also a potential influence on the public's perception of gangs and crime.

The US Congress has passed a law requiring the government to release its files on Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender with connections to prominent figures. The bill, signed by the president, aims to bring transparency to the case that has spawned numerous conspiracy theories. The article discusses what the public can expect to see in the released files and the significance of this development in the ongoing scandal.

The article discusses Nike's refocusing efforts under new CEO Elliott Hill, who aims to refocus the company on its core sports business. Hill believes Nike lost its obsession with sport and is working to refound the company by rediscovering its essential character. The article highlights Hill's presentation to staff on his first day, where he emphasized Nike's origins as a sports company and the need to refocus on athletes.

The article discusses the emerging robotaxi industry, which is expected to be worth trillions of dollars. It highlights the progress made in autonomous driving technology since the 'No Hands Across America' tour in 1995. The article notes that self-driving cabs are now being tested in several cities across America and are set to expand to other cities like London and Tokyo. The industry is expected to be highly competitive, with several companies vying for dominance.

A 22-year-old rising Latin music star, Maria De La Rosa, known professionally as DELAROSA, was shot dead in an 'ambush-style' attack while sitting in a parked car in Los Angeles' Northridge neighborhood. Two gunmen approached the vehicle and opened fire, killing De La Rosa and critically injuring two others. The motive is unclear, but investigators believe it could be gang-related. De La Rosa had recently released a track called 'No Me Llames' in August.

The cast of 'Everybody Loves Raymond' addressed the death of Sawyer Sweeten, a child actor on the show, during a 30th anniversary reunion special. Sawyer died by suicide in 2015 at the age of 19. The cast, including Ray Romano, Patricia Heaton, and Sawyer's siblings Sullivan and Madylin Sweeten, shared fond memories of Sawyer and discussed the importance of suicide prevention. The show's cast members expressed their sadness and paid tribute to Sawyer during the special.

The article discusses the ongoing controversy surrounding NFL coach Bill Belichick and his 24-year-old girlfriend, Jordon Hudson. The couple is facing scrutiny due to their significant age gap and Hudson's behavior, including threatening to sue podcaster Pablo Torre and being accused of being a 'control freak' by Belichick's daughter-in-law. The article suggests that Belichick's reputation is being damaged by his relationship with Hudson, who is portrayed as being in control and having her own agenda.

Ice-T has revealed that his reduced screen time on 'Law & Order: SVU' Season 27 is due to budget constraints following the return of Kelli Giddish as Amanda Rollins. Ice-T, who has played Detective Odafin 'Fin' Tutuola since Season 2, appeared in only four of the eight episodes released so far this season. Despite concerns about his role in the show's future, Ice-T assured fans that he is 'not leaving the show' but expressed uncertainty about being included in Season 28. The show has undergone significant cast changes, including the departure of Juliana Aidén Martinez and Octavio Pisano, and the upgrade of Aimé Donna Kelly to a series regular. Fans have also been upset by the killing off of Dann Florek's character, Capt. Donald Cragen, in the Season 27 premiere.

Former First Lady Michelle Obama has been accused of using weight-loss drugs like Ozempic after sharing photos from a recent photo shoot with Annie Leibovitz on Instagram, where she appeared slimmer than before. The speculation arose despite Obama's previous discussions about her health and weight management during menopause, where she emphasized the importance of being mindful of her diet and exercise. Obama has not commented on the accusations, but her representatives have been reached out to by the New York Post.

The New York Post's Editorial Board criticizes the NYPD's response to a violent 'street takeover' in Queens, where 40 cars converged, resulting in arson and assaults on residents. The Board argues that the NYPD needs to take immediate action to quash these events, which are becoming increasingly common in New York City. The article highlights the dangers posed by these 'street takeovers,' fueled by social media and movies like the Fast & Furious franchise, and notes that the NYPD has been successful in cracking down on similar events in the past. The Board demands a more vigilant approach from the NYPD to prevent these chaotic events from recurring.

Ray Romano revealed in the 'Everybody Loves Raymond' 30th anniversary special that he was intimidated by co-star Peter Boyle during their first meeting. The special, which aired on CBS and streamed on Paramount+, featured Romano reuniting with the cast, including Patricia Heaton and Brad Garrett. Romano shared that Boyle, who played his father Frank Barone, was an imposing figure who offered him words of encouragement before their first meeting. The cast also shared anecdotes about Boyle's life, including his studies to be a monk and his friendship with John Lennon, who was the best man at his wedding.

The wife of missing Virginia high school football coach Travis Turner has broken her silence after her husband vanished mysteriously during an undefeated season. Leslie Turner urged people to 'keep praying' for her husband's safe return. Travis Turner was last seen on Thursday, and the Virginia State Police have launched a full-scale search operation using search and rescue teams, drones, and K-9s. An employee within the Wise County Public Schools district has been placed on administrative leave amid an ongoing investigation, but it is unclear if it is related to Turner's disappearance.

The New York Post article 'Your COVID dollars at . . . work?' discusses various commentary pieces, including allegations against Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Fla.) for stealing federal COVID funds, criticism of West Midlands Police for making false claims against Maccabi Tel Aviv fans, and commentary on housing policies and vaccine misinformation. The article compiles various opinion pieces from conservative sources, criticizing Democratic policies and actions.

The article discusses the growing trend of young Chinese consumers, including men, splurging on aesthetic medical treatments for physical, emotional, and social wellness. According to Lior Dayan, CEO of Fosun Pharma-backed Sisram Medical, the Asia-Pacific region has shown revenue growth in this market, driven by a growing demand for energy-based aesthetic treatments. The article highlights that China's medical aesthetics market has a relatively low penetration rate compared to the US, offering greater growth potential. Sisram Medical's laser platforms for advanced treatments are priced over $120,000, but Dayan is confident in Chinese consumers' spending power. The trend is in line with Beijing's efforts to stimulate domestic consumption and boost economic recovery.

The Philippines is set to take over the rotating chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) next year, and analysts say it will face significant challenges in managing the ongoing crisis in Myanmar and advancing a code of conduct (COC) in the South China Sea. The Philippines' Foreign Secretary, Maria Theresa Lazaro, has stated that the country will prioritize continuity on Myanmar and build on established initiatives. President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr has appointed Lazaro as the Philippines' special envoy to Myanmar during its Asean chairmanship in 2026, expressing confidence in her ability to bring a constructive and inclusive approach to supporting the people of Myanmar. The Philippines must navigate a crowded Asean agenda with difficult trade-offs, balancing the crisis in Myanmar with the COC process facing a 2026 deadline, amidst internal divisions within the bloc.

China has launched the Shenzhou-22 spacecraft to replace the damaged Shenzhou-20 spacecraft that was used by three astronauts to return to Earth on November 14. The Shenzhou-20 spacecraft was found to have tiny cracks in its porthole, likely caused by space debris, making it unsafe for return. The Shenzhou-22 will now serve as the return vessel for the current Tiangong crew around April next year. The damaged Shenzhou-20 will remain in orbit for research purposes.

India and Canada have agreed to restart talks on a long-delayed free-trade agreement, despite ongoing tensions over Sikh separatism. The decision follows a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of a G20 summit in South Africa. Canada is seeking to diversify its global trade ties amid pressure from the US administration, which has imposed tariffs on Canadian goods. The two leaders agreed to launch negotiations on an 'ambitious' trade pact aimed at doubling two-way trade to C$70 billion by 2030. Analysts say that both countries are prioritizing economic ties over resolving the lingering political issue of Sikh separatism.

EU ministers are attempting to persuade the US to collaborate on a joint policy towards China, despite growing public scepticism in Germany towards the US as a reliable partner. The EU is hoping that by working together on China, they can keep the US engaged in Ukraine and push for lower trade tariffs. However, a recent poll showed that only 31% of Germans view the US as a partner on dealing with China, down from 49% a year earlier. EU officials are lobbying their US counterparts to 'push back' on Beijing together, with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer attending a meeting of the EU's trade council in Brussels.

The Beijing Institute of Mathematical Sciences and Applications (Bimsa) has become a global hub for mathematicians, attracting talent from 21 countries. Located in a former cement factory north of Beijing, Bimsa hosts over 200 full-time researchers, including Fields medallists and quantum physicists. Despite conflicts in their home countries, mathematicians from Ukraine and Russia are among those gathering at Bimsa to collaborate on projects and advance their careers. The institute is funded by Beijing's municipal government and Tsinghua University, offering competitive salaries to its professors.

Zhou Ji, director of Beijing's liaison office in Hong Kong, has stated that the international community's investments in Hong Kong reflect their confidence in the city's prospects. Zhou attributed this confidence to the proper implementation of the 'one country, two systems' principle and the efforts of Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu and his governance team. He emphasized that now is the 'best time' for Hong Kong to focus on economic growth, including the development of the Greater Bay Area, and improve people's livelihoods. Zhou made these remarks at a government seminar promoting the spirit of the fourth plenum of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China.

A Chinese study has found that brief, controlled periods of oxygen deprivation, known as acute intermittent hypoxia, can be as effective as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and ketamine in treating severe depression. The treatment works by triggering a natural mechanism in the brain that activates adenosine, a compound that rapidly reverses depressive symptoms. Researchers have developed a prototype device and are conducting clinical trials with 30 patients at Beijing Anding Hospital. The discovery may also help solve the mystery of how ECT and ketamine work and lead to the development of alternative and safer treatments.

A Chinese humanoid robot, the AgiBot A2, has set a new Guinness World Record by walking 66 miles in three days. The robot, which stands about 5 feet 6 inches tall, navigated varied surfaces and adhered to traffic regulations during its journey from Suzhou to Shanghai's historic waterfront Bund area. The feat demonstrates the advancements in physical AI and humanoid robotics, with the Chinese government encouraging domestic firms to develop humanoids to lead the global robotics industry. The AgiBot A2 is designed for customer service roles and is equipped with a chat function and lip-reading capabilities. The achievement has implications for the future of robotics, with predictions that the world could have over a billion humanoid robots by 2050.

China launched the Shenzhou 22 spacecraft on November 25, 2025, to help bring back three astronauts stranded on China's Tiangong space station due to a damaged spacecraft. The Shenzhou 22 is expected to be used by the astronauts in 2026. The incident occurred when the Shenzhou 20 spacecraft's window was damaged, causing a nine-day delay in their return to Earth. The astronauts eventually returned using the Shenzhou 21 spacecraft. China's space program has been rapidly progressing, with the Tiangong space station being developed after the country was excluded from the International Space Station due to U.S. national security concerns.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his sister, Senator Imee Marcos, are embroiled in a public feud. Imee Marcos accused her brother of being a longtime drug addict, claiming his cocaine dependence has undermined his governance. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. refused to respond directly to the allegations, stating that discussing family matters in public is 'anathema.' He expressed concern for his sister's well-being, suggesting that her behavior was uncharacteristic. The rift between the siblings has grown since Imee Marcos aligned with Vice President Sara Duterte, a political rival of Ferdinand Marcos Jr., ahead of the midterm elections. The family feud is set against the backdrop of their complicated history, being children of the former dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr., who was overthrown in 1986.

A gold pocket watch belonging to Isidor Straus, who died on the Titanic with his wife Ida, has sold at an auction for $2.3 million, a record price for Titanic memorabilia. The watch was gifted to Isidor by Ida for his 43rd birthday and was recovered from his body after the ship sank. The couple, who owned Macy's department store, were known for their selfless act of refusing lifeboat seats and staying together on the ship as it sank. The sale exceeded the previous record for Titanic memorabilia by $300,000.

A 33-year-old South Korean man, Kim Nok-wan, has been sentenced to life in prison for running a large-scale online blackmail ring that sexually exploited or abused 261 victims, including over a dozen minors, over a four-year period. The ring, known as the 'Vigilantes,' used Telegram to coerce victims into producing explicit content, which was then shared in online chatrooms. Kim was found guilty of raping or assaulting 16 victims, including 14 minors, and creating around 1,700 sexually exploitative images or videos. The court deemed his crimes so severe that 'permanent isolation from society' was warranted. Ten accomplices received prison terms ranging from two to four years.

President Trump has taken steps to designate Muslim Brotherhood affiliates in Egypt, Lebanon, and Jordan as terrorist groups. The executive order directs the Secretary of State and Treasury Secretary to submit a report within 30 days and take action within 45 days. The designation could lead to travel bans and freezing of funds held in U.S. banks. The Muslim Brotherhood is a controversial Islamist movement with a complex history in the Middle East. The White House claims that the affiliates in the three countries have engaged in or facilitated violence and destabilization campaigns. The move is seen as part of the Trump administration's efforts to confront the Muslim Brotherhood's transnational network.

The Trump administration has announced it will end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nearly 4,000 immigrants from Myanmar, citing improvements in governance and stability despite ongoing civil war and humanitarian crises. The decision is part of the administration's broader effort to curtail humanitarian immigration programs, which it argues have been exploited and extended beyond their intended temporary nature. Pro-immigrant advocates have criticized the move as part of the largest de-documentation effort in modern U.S. history.

Belgium is bracing for widespread disruption across various sectors, including public transport and schools, as unions stage a three-day national strike in response to Prime Minister Bart De Wever's austerity measures. The strike, which began on Monday, is expected to culminate in a general strike on Wednesday, with both Brussels airports cancelling all departure flights. The government's budget agreement, announced on Monday, aims to reduce Belgium's debt by changing labour laws and reforming unemployment benefits and pensions. Unions, including the FGTB, are demanding fair pensions, a wealth tax, and transparent screening of company subsidies. The strike has already caused disruptions, with Eurostar services cancelled and public transport affected.

Gunmen on motorbikes abducted dozens of children, including Theo's son, from a Catholic boarding school in Papiri village, Niger state, Nigeria. The father witnessed the abduction and felt helpless. The Christian Association of Nigeria reported 303 students and 12 staff members were taken, while 50 children escaped. The Niger state governor disputed the number, calling it exaggerated. Parents are frustrated with the government's response, feeling abandoned. The abduction is the third in Nigeria in a week, highlighting the country's deep security crisis.

A 33-year-old South Korean man, Kim Nok-wan, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for leading a large-scale online sex crime ring that exploited at least 261 individuals, producing over 2,000 pieces of sexually exploitative materials. The ring, known as the Vigilantes, used Telegram to blackmail victims into creating explicit content. Kim was convicted of various crimes, including sexual assault of minors, distribution of child sex abuse images, and operating a criminal organization. The court deemed permanent isolation necessary due to the brutality of the crimes and lack of restitution for victims.

UK's Indo-Pacific Minister Seema Malhotra has defended the government's new immigration proposals during a visit to India, citing concerns over a surge in foreign students seeking asylum after completing their studies. The proposals, which include extending the qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain from five to 10 years, have drawn criticism from some Labour MPs and members of the House of Lords. Malhotra emphasized that the reforms aim to stop the abuse of the immigration system and ensure that only genuine foreign students are allowed to stay. She also highlighted the UK's efforts to protect people from visa fraud and exploitation. The new immigration system is expected to be 'contribution-based', where settlement and long-term stay depend on a person's economic contribution.

H. Rap Brown, a former Black Panther leader who later changed his name to Jamil Abdullah Al-Amin, has died in a prison hospital at the age of 82. Brown was serving a life sentence for the killing of a Georgia sheriff's deputy in 2000. He was a prominent figure in the 1960s civil rights movement, known for his militant views and advocacy for Black Power. Brown's life took a turn when he converted to Islam while in prison and later became an Imam in Atlanta. Despite maintaining his innocence, he was convicted of murdering Deputy Ricky Kinchen and sentenced to life. His family has long questioned the fairness of his trial, citing new evidence and potential government conspiracy.

A 'once-in-300-years' storm has caused severe flooding in southern Thailand, particularly in Hat Yai city, resulting in at least 19 deaths and affecting over 127,000 households across nine provinces. The flooding has cut off access to a maternity ward with 30 newborn babies, and rescue efforts are underway. The Royal Irrigation Department is working to drain the floodwater and divert it into nearby water bodies. Neighboring countries, including Malaysia and Vietnam, have also been impacted by the heavy rain.

The article reports on the trafficking of women to run online scams in heavily-guarded centers in Asia, particularly in the Philippines. Women were promised jobs as customer service agents but were instead forced to participate in romance scams and other online fraud. The article features accounts from women who describe horrifying conditions inside these centers and highlights CNN's investigation into a scam compound that held over 5,000 trafficked workers. This story is part of CNN's ongoing series on gender inequality, 'As Equals.'

A US Air Force MQ-9 Reaper drone crashed off the west coast of South Korea on Monday while performing a routine mission near Maldo-Ri Island. The drone was assigned to the 431st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron at Kunsan Air Base. There were no injuries or damage to property. The cause of the incident is under investigation. The Reaper drone is part of a squadron permanently assigned to South Korea amid simmering military tensions in the region. The drone is capable of performing various combat and other missions with an extended range of over 1,600 miles and can stay airborne indefinitely with aerial refueling. The incident is the latest in a series of safety and reliability issues with US drone operations.

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) is at odds with the UK and 32 other countries over its decision to lift the partial suspensions of Russia and Belarus, sparking concerns about the IPC's stance on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. IPC president Andrew Parsons has defended the decision, stating it was not linked to participation in wars, despite evidence that Russia and Belarus used Paralympic sport to promote their 'special operation' in Ukraine. The UK and other governments have expressed 'serious concern' over the reinstatement, citing ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine and breaches of the Olympic Charter.

Severe flooding has devastated parts of Thailand and Vietnam, resulting in a death toll of 91 and 11 people still missing. The flooding was caused by record rainfall, with the city of Hat Yai in Thailand experiencing its highest 24-hour rainfall in 300 years. The affected areas span over 800km in Vietnam, with Dak Lak being the worst-hit province. The floods have submerged cars, damaged vehicles, and affected nearly two million people in southern Thailand. Officials have warned of further rain and rising water levels.

Suicide bombers attacked a security force headquarters in Peshawar, Pakistan, killing three officers and wounding five others. The attack involved three bombers, with one detonating at the main gate and another being shot by officers near the parking area. The incident occurred amid an uptick in violence by Islamist militants in the region, following deadly border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan last month. No militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

The Trump administration has proposed expanding fossil fuel production by opening federal waters off the coasts of California, Florida, and Alaska to oil and gas drilling, a move that environmentalists say would have devastating consequences. The plan, which would offer over one billion acres of water for lease, is part of Trump's 'drill, baby, drill' campaign pledge. While the administration claims it will bring new jobs and reduce petrol prices, critics argue it will harm the environment and disregard the impact on future generations. The proposal has sparked debate among locals, with some supporting the plan and others vehemently opposing it.

BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF has experienced a record $2.2 billion in outflows this month, as of Monday, according to FactSet data. This is nearly eight times the $291 million in losses suffered by the investment vehicle last October, marking its worst month since its debut in early 2024. The outflows coincide with bitcoin's significant decline, down more than 20% over the past month and over 40% from its high of $126,000 in early October. Investors are rotating into risk-off assets like gold amid economic uncertainties and souring market sentiment. Experts attribute the pullback to the 'gambling part of the market' and bitcoin's volatility, with some predicting further downside in the near term. However, others believe that the presence of long-term institutional investors could dampen extreme downside and reduce bitcoin's volatility as the asset class matures.

CNBC's 'Mad Money' host Jim Cramer answers callers' stock questions in his 'Lightning Round' segment. Cramer provides his opinions on various stocks, including Howmet Aerospace, Marvell Technology, FTAI Aviation, Astera Labs, Jacobs Solutions, Iron Mountain, Rocket Lab, Booz Allen Hamilton, Neptune Insurance, and Spotify. He recommends buying Jacobs Solutions, Booz Allen Hamilton, and Spotify, while advising to hold onto Howmet Aerospace and FTAI Aviation. Cramer expresses skepticism towards Marvell Technology, Astera Labs, Iron Mountain, and Neptune Insurance.

The U.S. government has sued West Virginia Republican Senator Jim Justice and his wife for over $5 million in unpaid federal income taxes, penalties, and interest dating back to 2009. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in Beckley, West Virginia, alleges that the couple has neglected or refused to make full payment despite notice and demand for payment. Hours after the suit was filed, a joint motion was made by the Justices' lawyer and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to enter a consent judgment in favor of the U.S. for the amount requested. The motion indicates that the couple has agreed to resolve the case by paying the amount owed. The lawsuit comes after the IRS filed notices of tax liens for over $8 million against Justice in Greenbrier County. This is not the first legal issue for Justice, who was recently found liable for over $29 million in civil damages related to his coal mining business.

50 students kidnapped from a Catholic school in Nigeria's Niger state have escaped, while 253 students and 12 teachers remain captive. The kidnapping occurred on Friday, and the escapees, aged 10-18, fled individually between Friday and Saturday. The attack is part of a series of anti-Christian attacks in Nigeria, with the Nigerian government disputing US claims that the country is a 'country of particular concern'. The Pope has called for the immediate release of the remaining hostages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) killed Haytham Ali Tabatabai, Hezbollah's chief of staff, in a Beirut strike. Netanyahu described Tabatabai as a 'mass murderer' responsible for attacks on Israelis and Americans. The strike is part of Israel's ongoing effort to dismantle Hezbollah's leadership and prevent the group from rebuilding its arsenal. Hezbollah confirmed Tabatabai's death, and Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz vowed to continue acting decisively against threats from Lebanon.

The White House has criticized South Africa over the G-20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg, with White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly accusing South African President Cyril Ramaphosa of 'weaponizing' the G-20 presidency. The US had boycotted the summit over claims of racial discrimination against White South Africans, and was further angered when Ramaphosa refused to allow a US embassy delegation to participate in the closing ceremony. The G-20 Leaders' Declaration was released despite US objections, with South Africa's chief rabbi criticizing the lack of condemnation of Christian persecution in Africa.

Pope Leo XIV is set to visit Lebanon, stopping at the tomb of Saint Charbel, a revered figure known for his miracles. The visit is seen as a significant event for Lebanon, bringing hope and optimism to a country struggling with economic collapse, war, and sectarian tensions. Saint Charbel is widely revered across faiths, with many attributing miracles to him. The Pope's visit includes meetings with senior officials and a silent prayer at the site of a catastrophic explosion in Beirut's port.

Finland has retained its title as the world's happiest country for the eighth consecutive year, despite facing economic challenges such as stagnation, rising unemployment, and strained public finances. The country's generous welfare state has been a key factor in its happiness, but it is now being trimmed back due to the economic pressures. Experts point to factors such as resilience and social support as contributing to Finns' happiness, rather than just economic conditions. The article highlights the stories of individuals struggling with unemployment and the impact of government austerity measures on the welfare state.

New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani faced criticism from Jewish leaders for his response to a protest outside Park East Synagogue, where a group opposed to his pro-Palestinian activism and criticism of Israel gathered. Mamdani initially condemned the protest but also criticized the synagogue for hosting an event with Nefesh B'Nefesh, a nonprofit that helps Jews move to Israel and settlements in the occupied West Bank. Jewish leaders rebuked Mamdani, saying he was wrong to imply the synagogue had done something wrong. Mamdani later clarified his statement, omitting criticism of the synagogue and strongly denouncing the protesters. The incident highlighted tensions between Mamdani and the Jewish community, with some leaders expressing unease about his stance on Israel and Palestine.

A rare Superman comic book, 'Superman No. 1', was discovered by three brothers in their late mother's attic and sold at a Texas auction house for $9.12 million, setting a new record for the most expensive comic book ever sold. The comic, released in 1939, is one of a few known copies in existence and is in excellent condition. The brothers, who wish to remain anonymous, found the comic in a cardboard box beneath layers of dust and newspapers. The sale more than doubled the previous record for the most expensive comic book, an 'Action Comics No. 1' that sold for $6 million last year.

The NPR article 'Books We Love' presents a curated list of book recommendations from NPR staffers and trusted critics for the year 2025. The list includes a diverse range of genres such as fiction, nonfiction, biography, memoir, comics, graphic novels, cookbooks, historical fiction, and young adult literature. The article provides a comprehensive compilation of titles across various categories, highlighting the best reads of the year as chosen by experts in the field. Notable authors featured include John Green, Suzanne Collins, and Jane Casey, among others. The selections cover a wide array of themes and topics, from historical narratives and memoirs to speculative fiction and poetry.

The US Coast Guard revised its policy on harassment, downgrading swastikas and nooses from symbols of hatred to 'potentially divisive' symbols. The change sparked backlash, with critics calling it 'a national embarrassment.' The Coast Guard later clarified that hate symbols would remain banned, including in private, and that bullying and hazing would not be tolerated. The revisions are set to take effect on December 15.

A group of influential liberal senators, known as the 'Fight Club,' is challenging Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer's approach to the 2026 midterm elections and handling of President Trump. The group, comprising senators like Chris Van Hollen, Tina Smith, and Elizabeth Warren, is unhappy with Schumer's leadership and the party's campaign arm, led by Kirsten Gillibrand, for favoring establishment candidates. They argue that the party must embrace candidates willing to challenge corporate interests and oppose the Trump administration. The dispute reflects growing frustration among Democrats with Schumer's leadership and strategy.

Canadian author Thomas King, known for his work on Indigenous issues, has discovered through a genealogist that he has no Cherokee ancestry, contrary to his long-held belief. King, who has written extensively on the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples, announced this finding in an essay, stating that he was 'ripped in half' by the news. He plans to return the National Aboriginal Achievement award he received in 2003, while keeping other awards that were based on his writing. King maintains he never intended to mislead people and is grappling with the implications of his discovery.