In other news

The article discusses the rarity of political courage, using the example of a vote against gerrymandering. It references John F. Kennedy's 'Profiles in Courage' to explore why politicians often lack the courage to take bold stands, citing reasons such as the desire to get along with peers, willingness to compromise, and ambition for re-election. The article highlights the value of political courage in today's political climate.

The article discusses the closing window of opportunity for reform in Lebanon under Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, who has promised to assert state authority and rescue the economy. Salam's goals include disarming Hizbullah, a Shia militia, and addressing the financial crisis that has plagued the country since 2019. With elections looming and war drums beating, Salam is expected to become a lame duck soon, making it imperative for him to act quickly. The article highlights the challenges Salam faces in achieving his goals, including the entrenched power of Hizbullah and the dire state of the economy. The situation in Lebanon is further complicated by regional conflicts and the impact of external factors, such as Donald Trump's peace plan in Gaza. The article concludes that the window of opportunity for reform is closing, and Salam must take decisive action to achieve his objectives.

The article discusses how Donald Trump has maximized his power during his second term as President of the United States. Charlotte Howard, the New York bureau chief of The Economist, reflects on the first year of Trump's second term, highlighting his efforts to consolidate power and influence various aspects of American society and politics. The article touches on Trump's impact on the Republican Party, his stance on various issues, and his interactions with different groups, including developers and conservative influencers. It also mentions other news stories related to American politics and society, such as the rise of megachurches and the adoption of four-day school weeks.

The article discusses how Donald Trump is targeting Brutalist architecture, specifically the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) building in Washington, DC, designed by Marcel Breuer. The building, despite being on the National Register of Historic Places, is disliked by its occupants due to its poor condition and design flaws. The article highlights the tension between the building's architectural significance and its functionality, as well as the Trump administration's stance on Brutalism.

The Ethiopian government plans to build Africa's largest airport, a mega-project that faces complications due to conflict, competition, and government interference. Ethiopian Airlines, the country's national carrier, has grown significantly since its inception in 1946 and is now the largest and most profitable airline in Africa. However, the new airport project is not without challenges.

The article discusses Israel's refusal to withdraw from southern Syria, a territory it occupied after Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad fled Damascus last year. The occupation stretches from Mount Hermon to the border triangle between Israel, Syria, and Jordan. The move may create more enemies for the Jewish state. The article highlights the tensions in the region and the potential consequences of Israel's actions.

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The article discusses the internal divisions within the Republican Party, particularly among conservative influencers associated with the MAGA movement. The Turning Point USA conference in Phoenix highlighted rifts over issues like Israel, antisemitism, and definitions of American identity. The drama unfolded just three months after Charlie Kirk, the organization's founder, was involved in a murder on a college campus in Utah. The article suggests that the MAGA movement is fragmenting, with influencers at odds over various issues.

The article discusses the growing trend of American schools adopting a four-day week schedule. The superintendent of Eldon, Iowa's school district, which implemented this schedule in 2022, reports improved attendance, behavior, and mental health among students. While teachers and parents are pleased, the results for pupils are mixed. The article explores the potential benefits and drawbacks of this schedule change.

The article discusses the aftermath of the capture of el-Fasher, the capital of Sudan's North Darfur region, by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in late October 2025. Satellite imagery reveals the devastating impact of the RSF's takeover, including mass executions, destruction of infrastructure, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people. The article highlights the predictability of the atrocities, the failure of international intervention, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The RSF's actions are accused of constituting genocide, with at least 60,000 people killed and over 100,000 still unaccounted for. The city's markets and infrastructure lie abandoned, with vegetation overgrowing once-bustling areas. The article concludes that the precise numbers of casualties may never be known, as physical evidence is being systematically destroyed.

The article discusses the economics of megachurches in the United States, focusing on their growth, financial management, and their decision to avoid politics. It highlights the Lakewood Church in Houston as an example, describing its large congregation and elaborate services. The article suggests that megachurches are thriving by adapting to modern tastes and avoiding political entanglements, which allows them to maintain a broad appeal.

The article discusses the increasing prevalence of toll roads in America, attributing this trend to the decline of petrol taxes. It uses the example of the Skyway, a toll road in Chicago that spans the Calumet river, to illustrate the financial engineering behind such infrastructure projects. The article highlights how the need for alternative funding sources has led to the proliferation of toll roads across the United States.

The article discusses how President Trump's executive order reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug has not led to the expected increase in banking services for the cannabis industry. Despite the reclassification, big banks like JPMorgan, Bank of America, and Citigroup remain hesitant to provide banking services to cannabis businesses due to the complexity of federal regulations. The industry is seeking clearer legislation to allow for banking services, as the current situation forces them to rely on costly non-bank sources or Canadian financing.

Tony McCollister, a former cast member on A&E's reality TV show 'Neighbors With Benefits', has been arrested in Ohio on charges of pandering obscenity involving a minor and engaging in sexual conduct with animals. Prosecutors allege that McCollister uploaded child sexual abuse material to a Google account and committed sexual acts involving two dogs he owned. McCollister was arraigned and is being held on a $250,000 bond. The arrest has reignited attention around the controversial docuseries that followed suburban couples who practiced swinging while raising families. The show was canceled after two episodes due to viewer backlash.

A 70-year-old grandfather, Terry Loden, was shot dead along with his dog, Jesse, by a man named Todd Alexander Stalcup while walking in Simpson Park in Hall County, Georgia. The incident occurred when Terry's dog got into a fight with Stalcup's dog, prompting Stalcup to open fire. Terry's wife, Cheryle, witnessed the attack and called 911. Stalcup was arrested 15 minutes later and charged with malice murder, felony murder, and other crimes. The Loden family described the killing as 'senseless and unprovoked'.

A Texas father rescued his 15-year-old daughter who was kidnapped on Christmas Day by tracking her cell phone. The daughter was taken by a 23-year-old man, Giovanni Rosales Espinoza, who threatened her with a knife. The father used parental controls on her phone to locate her and found her in a maroon-colored pickup truck with Espinoza in a secluded area. He helped his daughter escape and called the authorities, who arrested Espinoza. Espinoza was charged with aggravated kidnapping and indecency with a child and is being held without bond.

The New York Islanders secured a 2-0 victory over their local rivals, the New York Rangers, in a game that showcased the Islanders' growth and defensive prowess. The Islanders dominated the first period, holding the Rangers without a shot for the first 11:25, and maintained their lead throughout the game. Goalie David Rittich made 27 saves, including a stop on a breakaway and a penalty shot, to secure his second shutout of the season. The win was a statement for the Islanders, demonstrating their ability to defend and capitalize on opportunities.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticized Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an El Salvadoran illegal immigrant, for making TikToks during a gag order imposed by a federal judge. Abrego Garcia's case has drawn national attention due to his alleged involvement in human smuggling and his deportation to El Salvador in violation of a court order. A federal judge has canceled Abrego Garcia's trial and scheduled a hearing to review whether prosecutors pursued the human smuggling charges vindictively.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is facing criticism after a viral video raised questions about a Minneapolis daycare center that allegedly received millions of dollars in state funding despite appearing largely inactive. The video, posted by independent reporter Nick Shirley, shows the Quality Learning Center in Minneapolis with no visible activity, a misspelled sign, and reportedly accounting for 99 children while receiving roughly $4 million in state funds. Politicians such as Vice President JD Vance, Rep. Mike Lawler, Donald Trump Jr., and Elon Musk took to social media to criticize Walz, alleging fraud and corruption in the state's social services. The controversy is part of a larger scandal involving at least $1 billion lost to alleged social services fraud tied to the Somali community in the Twin Cities, with some funds reportedly ending up in the hands of the Somali terror group Al-Shabab.

Michigan State men's basketball coach Tom Izzo has criticized the NCAA for allowing James Nnaji, a former NBA draft pick, to play for Baylor. Izzo believes the NCAA's decision is a 'travesty' and that it sets a bad precedent for college basketball. Nnaji was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in 2023 but played overseas and later for the New York Knicks' summer league team. Despite never signing an NBA contract, the NCAA ruled that Nnaji has four years of college eligibility, allowing him to join Baylor immediately. Izzo expressed his frustration with the NCAA's decision-making process, stating that it prioritizes avoiding lawsuits over making fair decisions. He also defended his own motivations, saying he is thinking about what is best for his players, not just his program.

A bombing at a mosque in Homs, Syria, killed at least 8 people and wounded 18 others during Friday prayers. The Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib Mosque is located in an Alawite-dominated neighborhood. Authorities suspect explosive devices were planted inside. The attack was condemned by local officials and neighboring countries, who linked it to ongoing sectarian tensions and terrorism. Recent weeks have seen increased tensions in Syria following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad, with various groups clashing. The US recently conducted strikes in Syria after an ISIS ambush killed American personnel.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced plans to establish a national bravery award to recognize civilians and first responders who confronted the terrorist attack on a beachside Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, which left 15 dead. The attack, perpetrated by Sajid Akram and his son Naveed Akram, was motivated by ISIS and antisemitism. The award will honor those who showed bravery and kindness during the attack, including Ahmed al Ahmed, a Syrian-Australian Muslim who disarmed one of the assailants and was wounded. Other acts of heroism emerged, including those of Boris and Sofia Gurman, who tried to stop the attack, and Reuven Morrison, who threw bricks at the attackers. The government has also announced plans to tighten gun laws, including capping individual gun ownership at four and reclassifying high-risk weapons.

Conservation authorities and an NGO in Thailand have rediscovered the elusive flat-headed cat, a wild cat species feared extinct in the country for three decades. The species is among the world's most threatened wild felines, with only 2,500 adults estimated to exist in the wild. Camera traps in Thailand's Princess Sirindhorn Wildlife Sanctuary detected the cats 29 times during an ecological survey, including a female with her cub, indicating a relatively high concentration of the species. Experts say the rediscovery is a starting point for future conservation efforts to enable the cats to live sustainably without being threatened.

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro underwent double hernia surgery on Thursday, his family announced. The procedure, which lasted about 3½ hours, was completed without complications. Bolsonaro has been serving a 27-year prison sentence since November for attempting a coup. His wife, Michelle Bolsonaro, posted on Instagram that the surgery was a success. Bolsonaro's health issues are complex, having been stabbed in the abdomen during a campaign rally in 2018. Justice Alexandre de Moraes authorized the procedure but denied Bolsonaro's request for house arrest after the hospital stay. Bolsonaro's eldest son, Flávio Bolsonaro, announced he will challenge President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in next year's election as the candidate of Bolsonaro's Liberal Party, backed by a letter from his father.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard seized a foreign oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, carrying 4 million liters of smuggled fuel, and detained 16 foreign crew members. The incident is part of a larger pattern of tensions between Iran and the West, with Iran having previously seized vessels and been accused of attacks on tankers. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway for global oil supplies, and Iran has threatened to close it in the past. The seizure comes amid ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel, including a recent 12-day war in June.

Late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel addressed the UK on Christmas Day with 'The Alternative Christmas Message' on Channel 4, criticizing President Trump's actions and warning about the rise of fascism in the US. Kimmel reflected on his own experience with censorship and the importance of free speech, urging the UK not to give up on the US despite its current challenges. He highlighted the erosion of democratic structures in the US, from the free press to judicial independence.

Dozens of Chinese electric vehicle (EV) makers are under pressure to fold or trim operations in 2026 due to weakening domestic demand and expiring government subsidies. About 50 unprofitable mainland Chinese EV makers are expected to scale down or wind down operations as the country's automotive sector is projected to report a sales drop next year. The industry is grappling with overcapacity woes and softening government support, with the removal of cash subsidies and tax incentives expected to further impact the market. Analysts predict that perennial loss-making firms will exit the world's largest car market, with performance in 2026 being crucial for most unprofitable EV assemblers.

The Philippines is expected to face a year of crisis in 2025, marked by a deepening corruption scandal and escalating tensions with China over the South China Sea. President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr's administration is threatened by the corruption scandal surrounding flood control projects, while Manila's territorial row with Beijing shows no signs of waning. The Philippines is also set to take on the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) next year, adding to the country's diplomatic challenges. Tensions between the Philippines and China have heightened following Beijing's announcement of a national nature reserve at Scarborough Shoal and incidents involving the China Coast Guard and Philippine fishing vessels.

Taiwanese leader William Lai Ching-te's plan to push through a NT$1.2 trillion (US$37 billion) special military spending package has been blocked by the opposition-controlled legislature, effectively freezing the eight-year spending package. The blockade has also stalled the review of Taiwan's 2026 general budget, increasing pressure on Lai's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government. The deadlock has deepened due to disagreements over fiscal reform and a controversial court ruling.

China's ultra-wealthy individuals are discreetly relocating their private jets to offshore locations, such as Singapore and Japan, to avoid stricter regulations at home. Meanwhile, corporate executives are opting for commercial flights or timeshare jet services due to economic challenges. The number of business jets in mainland China decreased to 249 last year from 270 in 2023, while Hong Kong and Singapore saw an increase in their business jet fleets. Analysts attribute this trend to the growing regulatory scrutiny and economic headwinds in China.

The article discusses the ongoing struggle for justice by Chinese victims of Japan's biological warfare during World War II, particularly those affected by Unit 731. Despite the passage of 80 years since the end of the war, victims and their families continue to wait for apologies and compensation from Japan. The article highlights the work of Chinese journalist Nan Xianghong, who has spent 23 years documenting the effects of biological warfare and has written a book on the subject. The issue is complicated by Japan's official denials, the United States' immunity deals with Japanese perpetrators, and China's shifting diplomatic priorities.

Annette Dionne, the last surviving of the Canadian Dionne quintuplets, has died at the age of 91. Born in 1934 during the Great Depression, the quintuplets became a global sensation in their childhood, starring in films and endorsing products. However, their upbringing was marred by controversy as they were taken away from their parents by the Ontario government and displayed in a compound called 'Quintland' as a tourist attraction. The quintuplets later sued the Ontario government for compensation over their childhood circumstances and received a settlement. Annette was the last surviving sibling out of the 14 Dionne children and had championed children's rights throughout her life.

A mosque in Homs, Syria was attacked during Friday prayers, resulting in at least 8 deaths and 18 injuries. The Syrian health ministry reported the blast, and officials believe an explosive was detonated inside the building. The jihadist group Saraya Ansar al-Sunnah claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was carried out in collaboration with another unidentified group. The mosque is located in a predominantly Alawite neighborhood, and the attack has been condemned by Syria's Foreign Ministry as a 'terrorist crime.' The incident has raised concerns about sectarian violence in Syria, particularly against Alawites, following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad, who is also Alawite.

The Kennedy Center in Washington DC is seeking $1m in damages from musician Chuck Redd, who cancelled his Christmas Eve concert after President Donald Trump's name was added to the venue. The center's president, Richard Grenell, called the cancellation a 'political stunt' and claimed it had cost the center considerably. Redd had hosted his concert annually since 2006 but pulled out after the center's board, which had been reshaped by Trump, voted to rename it the Trump Kennedy Center. The renaming was criticized by Democrats, artists, and the Kennedy family, with some arguing it required an act of Congress. A lawsuit has been filed by Congresswoman Joyce Beatty to remove Trump's name from the center.

The UK has imposed visa restrictions on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) due to its failure to cooperate on returning illegal migrants and foreign national offenders. The UK government had warned the DRC, along with Angola and Namibia, that they would face visa penalties if they did not improve their cooperation on removals. While Angola and Namibia have agreed to step up efforts to take back their citizens, the DRC has not made the required changes. The UK's new asylum rules, announced in November, include temporary refugee status, ending guaranteed housing support for asylum seekers, and creating new 'safe and legal routes' into the UK. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has stated that the UK expects countries to cooperate on returns and has warned that further measures, including a complete visa ban, could be imposed on the DRC if it does not comply.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that his country is engaged in a 'total war' with the US, Israel, and Europe, citing the various pressures and challenges Iran faces from these nations. In an interview with Iranian state media, Pezeshkian described the current conflict as more complex and difficult than the Iran-Iraq war of the 1980s, with Iran facing pressure 'from every angle.' He claimed that Iran's military has emerged stronger following a June conflict with Israel and warned that any future attacks would be met with a 'more decisive response.' The comments come ahead of a planned meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump.

Russian forces appear to be pushed out of the northeastern Ukrainian city of Kupyansk, with Ukrainian officials stating that only a small number of isolated Russian troops remain. Pro-Kremlin voices are acknowledging the setback, and Ukrainian military officials say Russian units are cut off from reliable supply lines and are increasingly surrendering. The city has been a focal point of Russian territorial claims, but Ukrainian officials stress that Russia never fully reestablished control over Kupyansk after its liberation in September 2022.

The article discusses the diplomatic efforts of the Trump administration in 2025, focusing on several global conflicts. It highlights the successes and challenges in various regions, including the Middle East, Ukraine, and Africa. The administration's 'peace through strength' approach is credited with brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, a peace declaration between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and progress in negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. However, the article also notes the ongoing challenges and fragilities in these regions, including the continued presence of armed groups and the need for further reconciliation.

The article discusses how electric vehicles (EVs) have become politicized in the US, carrying cultural and political baggage beyond their functional use as cars. It reflects on the history of EVs and hybrid vehicles, particularly highlighting the Toyota Prius, which was launched in 2001 and became a symbol of environmentally friendly transportation. The article suggests that while some view EVs as a crucial step in combating climate change and enhancing American automakers' global competitiveness, others see them as an example of government overreach, forcing consumers to adopt battery-powered cars. The Toyota Prius is used as a historical reference point to understand the evolving perceptions of eco-friendly vehicles in the US.

The article discusses how climate change has affected the lives of people in Bangladesh, particularly in the southern coastal regions, leading to displacement and migration. The story focuses on Md Emran Hosain, a 24-year-old man who left his village in Gabura Union to work in Singapore. Emran's family was affected by recurring disasters, including cyclones and floods, which damaged their home and livelihood. The article highlights the vulnerability of Bangladesh to climate change, with rising sea levels and increased salinity affecting agriculture and fishing. Many people are being forced to migrate to cities or abroad, with Singapore being a popular destination. The article also cites reports and statistics on the scale of displacement and migration in Bangladesh.

The article discusses how Trump's trade war and tariffs imposed on Chinese imports have affected the toy industry in the United States, particularly small businesses. Jennifer Bergman, owner of West Side Kids toy store in Manhattan, struggled to keep her store open due to increased costs from tariffs, eventually closing it in July 2025. The tariffs, which reached as high as 145%, had a devastating impact on small toy retailers, while big-box retailers like Walmart and Target were less affected due to their ability to stockpile inventory and spread costs. The article highlights the growing divide between big-box chains and independent retailers, with the latter struggling to survive.

The video game industry experienced significant developments in 2025, marked by major deals and shifts in console strategies. A consortium led by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia acquired Electronic Arts for $55 billion, the largest leveraged buyout in Wall Street history. Ubisoft formed a new gaming subsidiary with Tencent, while Take-Two Interactive's shares rose amid anticipation for Grand Theft Auto 6, despite a delayed release date. The industry saw a change in strategy for PlayStation and Xbox as they moved towards more open systems, while Nintendo continued to focus on exclusive titles for its Switch 2 console, which became the fastest-selling console in history.

The article discusses the growing influence and spending power of the over-50s demographic, dubbed 'Silver Spenders', and how they are driving investment opportunities across various sectors in the UK. Investors are highlighting the wealthier subset of this demographic, who are seeking luxury goods, high-end wealth management, and insurance services. Experts predict that this trend will continue, with companies catering to the needs of older consumers, such as Saga plc and Pets At Home, likely to benefit.

The UK government has announced a new paid 'gap year' program for young people in the armed forces, set to launch in March 2026. The Armed Forces Foundation Scheme will initially recruit 150 people to experience military life without a long-term commitment. Participants will be paid and trained across the Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force, with a focus on developing transferable skills. The program is aimed at school leavers and young adults under 25 who are unsure about their future career path. The scheme is inspired by similar initiatives in Australia, France, and Germany, and is part of the UK's broader push for a 'whole of society' approach to defense.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Mar-a-Lago is seen as the opening act of his 2026 reelection bid, with US President Donald Trump playing a starring role. Netanyahu's coalition faces threats from the ultra-Orthodox conscription crisis and the March 2026 budget deadline, which could trigger early elections. Netanyahu's reelection strategy hinges on distancing himself from the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack and counting on Trump to help rewrite that narrative. Trump has been a key ally, championing Netanyahu's pardon campaign and potentially reappearing on Netanyahu's campaign posters. Netanyahu's pitch will focus on diplomatic spectacles, including expanding the Abraham Accords and normalization with Saudi Arabia.

Newly released records show that US officials advised Bill Clinton to avoid a public handshake with Gerry Adams during his 1995 visit to Northern Ireland. Despite this, Clinton shook hands with Adams on the Falls Road in Belfast. The records also revealed that Clinton's ancestral links to Co Fermanagh were 'largely fantasy'. The documents were part of the National Archives of Ireland's annual release of declassified government files.

A 47-year-old man, Henrik Lenkeit, discovered that his grandfather was Heinrich Himmler, a leading Nazi figure and the principal architect of the Holocaust. Henrik found out through a documentary and subsequent research, revealing that Himmler was his mother's biological father. Henrik is grappling with the implications of being related to one of history's biggest criminals and is seeking to distance himself from his grandfather's dark past.

The Chicago Bears have clinched their first NFC North title since 2018 after the Green Bay Packers lost to the Baltimore Ravens. The Bears, led by Coach Ben Johnson and quarterback Caleb Williams, have had a remarkable season, overcoming a 0-2 start to become division champions. They will host a postseason game at Soldier Field for the first time since 2019. The team's success is attributed to Johnson's intensity, Williams' fourth-quarter performances, and a revamped defense and offense. The Bears are now in contention for the NFC's top seed and a potential home playoff game against the Packers.

The Baltimore Ravens beat the Green Bay Packers 41-24, with Derrick Henry rushing for 216 yards and four touchdowns, keeping the Ravens' playoff hopes alive. The Ravens (8-8) need the Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6) to lose to the Cleveland Browns (3-12) on Sunday and then beat the Steelers in the season finale next week to win the AFC North. The Packers (9-6-1) clinched a playoff spot but lost their chance to win the NFC North title. Backup quarterbacks Tyler Huntley and Malik Willis played crucial roles in the game, with Huntley leading the Ravens to their most points since Week 2 and Willis throwing for 288 yards and a touchdown for the Packers. The game highlighted the Ravens' reliance on Henry and the Packers' defensive struggles without key players Micah Parsons and Devonte Wyatt.