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Ekrem Imamoglu, Istanbul's mayor and opposition figure, was detained on March 19, 2025, on corruption charges just days before he was expected to be named the presidential candidate for the Republican People’s Party. This follows the annulment of his university degree, disqualifying him from running for president under Turkish law.
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Eddie Jordan, the former Formula One team owner and TV pundit, has died at the age of 76 after battling aggressive prostate cancer. He passed away peacefully in Cape Town, surrounded by family. Jordan was known for his charisma and significant contributions to motorsport, including giving Michael Schumacher his F1 debut.
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George Glezmann, a U.S. citizen held by the Taliban for over two years, was released on March 20, 2025. His release, facilitated by Qatari negotiations, marks the third U.S. detainee freed since January. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed Glezmann's return to the U.S. to reunite with his wife.
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Malaysia has approved a new search operation for the missing MH370 flight, which vanished in 2014. The contract with Ocean Infinity, based on a 'no-find, no-fee' model, will cover a 15,000 sq km area in the southern Indian Ocean. The search aims to provide closure for the families of the 239 passengers.
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On March 19, 2025, President Trump intensified military operations against Yemen's Houthi rebels, following their attacks on US and Israeli targets. The US has conducted airstrikes in Yemen, killing dozens, while Trump warned Iran of dire consequences for supporting the Houthis. The situation escalates amid ongoing tensions in the region.
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Indonesia's parliament has approved controversial revisions to military law, allowing armed forces personnel to hold more civilian positions. Critics warn this could lead to a resurgence of military influence reminiscent of the Suharto era, raising concerns over human rights and democratic governance.
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On March 18, 2025, the Trump administration released thousands of documents related to the assassination of John F. Kennedy. While the files were expected to shed light on conspiracy theories, experts suggest they do not alter the established narrative that Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone in the assassination.
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to dismiss Ronen Bar, head of the Shin Bet security agency, citing a lack of trust. This decision follows Bar's public disputes with Netanyahu and ongoing investigations into Netanyahu's aides. The move has sparked legal and political challenges amid rising tensions in Israel.
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The World Happiness Report 2025 reveals Finland as the happiest country for the eighth consecutive year, while the US drops to 24th place, its lowest ranking ever. The report highlights factors influencing happiness, including social connections and trust, amid rising unhappiness in Western nations.
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On March 19, 2025, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reoccupied the Netzarim Corridor in Gaza, aiming to create a security buffer between northern and southern regions. This move follows renewed airstrikes that have resulted in significant casualties, as tensions escalate over hostage negotiations with Hamas.
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As of March 20, 2025, the Federal Reserve is navigating rising inflation and economic uncertainty influenced by President Trump's policies. Fed Chair Jerome Powell has indicated that tariffs may delay progress in achieving the inflation target, complicating the Fed's monetary policy decisions. Consumer sentiment is declining, raising concerns about potential stagflation.
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President Trump's recent imposition of 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, alongside a 10% increase on Chinese goods, has escalated tensions and triggered retaliatory measures from affected countries. This development raises concerns about inflation and economic growth in the U.S., as markets react to the potential fallout from a renewed trade war.
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CK Hutchison's planned $22.8 billion sale of its global ports business to a BlackRock-led consortium has drawn sharp criticism from Chinese officials, who view it as a betrayal of national interests. The deal includes key assets near the Panama Canal and has prompted an investigation by Beijing amid rising geopolitical tensions. Today's date is March 20, 2025.
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In a recent call, President Trump and President Putin agreed to a limited ceasefire on attacks against Ukraine's energy infrastructure for 30 days. However, Putin did not accept a broader ceasefire, demanding an end to foreign military support for Ukraine. Negotiations for a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea will begin immediately.
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The Trump administration has continued deportation flights of alleged gang members to El Salvador, defying a federal court order. U.S. District Judge James Boasberg had issued a restraining order against the deportations, citing the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. The administration argues it has the authority to proceed under this law.
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Human Rights Watch has urged Pakistan to halt the forced return of Afghan refugees, citing a March 31 deadline for deportations. Many Afghans face persecution and dire conditions if returned to Afghanistan, where the Taliban's rule has worsened human rights abuses since 2021.
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Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have intensified, resulting in at least 71 deaths overnight, following a breakdown of a ceasefire. The attacks have killed over 710 Palestinians since Tuesday, with a significant number being women and children. The humanitarian situation is dire, with hospitals overwhelmed and aid severely restricted.
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The Constitutional Court of South Korea has yet to announce a verdict on President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment, extending the political crisis that began with his controversial martial law declaration. With protests intensifying and economic concerns mounting, the court's decision is now expected next week, as political tensions continue to rise.
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On March 20, 2025, Israel intercepted a missile launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels, who claimed to target Ben Gurion Airport. This incident follows a series of US airstrikes against the Houthis, escalating tensions in the region as the group vows to intensify attacks in response to renewed Israeli military actions in Gaza.
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On March 20, 2025, both Russia and Ukraine intensified aerial assaults, with Ukraine striking Engels airbase and Russia targeting Kropyvnytskyi. President Trump is urging a ceasefire after three years of conflict, but fighting continues despite a proposed limited halt on energy infrastructure attacks.
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Columbia University is under pressure from the Trump administration to comply with demands regarding its Middle Eastern, South Asian, and African Studies Department. This follows allegations of antisemitism and protests related to the Gaza conflict. The administration has threatened to withdraw federal funding if the university does not comply by this week.
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Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian student detained by ICE, argues his transfer from New Jersey to Louisiana was unjustified. He claims improper motives behind the move, which the government attributes to a bedbug issue. Khalil seeks bail while contesting his arrest's legality, citing First Amendment rights amid ongoing protests supporting Palestinian rights.
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Huawei has unveiled the Pura X, a premium bi-fold smartphone featuring a 6.3-inch screen and running on HarmonyOS Next. This launch signifies Huawei's continued resilience in the smartphone market amid US technology restrictions, with the device priced at 7,499 yuan (US$1,037).
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Tesla has announced a recall of 46,096 Cybertrucks due to a defect in the cant rail assembly, which can detach while driving, posing a crash risk. The company will replace the affected panels at no cost. Owner notifications are set for May 19, 2025.
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Gal Gadot's Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony was interrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters opposing her support for Israel. The actress, who has faced backlash for her political views, defended her stance during the event, which was attended by both supporters and counter-protesters.
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The Trump administration's recent deportation of approximately 200 Venezuelan men, accused of gang affiliation based on tattoos, has ignited legal and human rights debates. Critics argue that the deportations violate due process and lack substantial evidence linking the individuals to the Tren de Aragua gang.
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Israeli airstrikes resumed in Gaza on March 18, 2025, killing over 400 Palestinians and ending a two-month ceasefire. The strikes targeted densely populated areas, prompting accusations from Hamas of a unilateral cancellation of the truce. The situation escalated following failed negotiations over hostages and ongoing humanitarian crises.
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Japan secured its place in the 2026 World Cup with a 2-0 victory over Bahrain, becoming the first team to qualify outside of the co-hosts. Meanwhile, Australia defeated Indonesia 5-1, boosting their chances for qualification. China remains at the bottom of their group after a loss to Saudi Arabia.
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On March 19, 2025, peace talks between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame were held in Qatar, aiming for an immediate ceasefire amid escalating violence from the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group. The conflict has resulted in over 7,000 deaths and millions displaced, with M23 capturing key cities in eastern DRC.
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Peter and Barbie Reynolds, a British couple in their 70s, are set to appear in a Kabul court on Thursday after being detained by the Taliban over a month ago. Their family expresses concern over their health and the lack of clarity regarding the charges against them.
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Two men were found guilty of plotting to assassinate Iranian-American journalist Masih Alinejad in a murder-for-hire scheme linked to the Iranian government. The trial revealed the extent of Iran's efforts to silence dissenting voices abroad, particularly those advocating for women's rights in Iran.
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Two recent incidents in the English Channel have resulted in the deaths of two migrants, marking the seventh and eighth fatalities this year. The tragedies highlight the ongoing dangers faced by those attempting to cross from France to the UK amid increasingly strict asylum policies and rising xenophobia across Europe.
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Kilauea volcano in Hawaii has resumed erupting, releasing lava fountains reaching up to 700 feet. This marks the sixth eruption since December 2023, with no threat to nearby residential areas. Meanwhile, authorities are monitoring volcanic activity at Mount Spurr in Alaska and the Fuego volcano in Guatemala, which has prompted evacuations.
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President Trump's upcoming tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports are set to take effect on April 2, 2025. The auto industry is particularly concerned about the impact on supply chains, while Canadian officials retaliate with their own tariffs. The situation raises questions about economic growth and inflation.
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Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki in Indonesia erupted late Thursday, prompting the highest alert level and a 7-8 km exclusion zone. Flights to Bali were canceled due to ash, but no immediate damage reports emerged. Residents were warned of potential mudflows from heavy rainfall.
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A federal judge has ruled that Mahmoud Khalil's case regarding his detention and potential deportation must be reviewed in New Jersey. Khalil, a Columbia University student, argues that his detention violates his constitutional rights amid allegations of political motivations behind his arrest.
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Recent discoveries at a ranch in Teuchitlan, Jalisco, have revealed human remains and cremation ovens, raising concerns about the Jalisco New Generation cartel's involvement in forced disappearances. Activists uncovered the site, prompting federal investigations into local authorities' failures to act. The situation highlights Mexico's ongoing crisis of missing persons amid cartel violence.
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A French researcher was denied entry to the U.S. and deported after border officials found messages on his phone expressing personal opinions about the Trump administration's science policies. French Higher Education Minister Philippe Baptiste condemned the incident, emphasizing the importance of academic freedom.
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China has intensified military drills near Taiwan, with 59 warplanes and nine vessels detected in the area. The Taiwanese Defense Ministry reported that 43 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait. This escalation follows recent statements from Taiwan's leadership and is seen as a warning against external support for Taiwan's independence.
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Russian authorities have escalated their crackdown on dissent, exemplified by the arrest of comedian Ostanin for allegedly inciting hatred and the sentencing of British fighter Anderson to 19 years for terrorism. These actions reflect a broader suppression of anti-war sentiment amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
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The blobfish has been named New Zealand's Fish of the Year, winning the title with 1,286 votes in a competition aimed at raising awareness about marine conservation. The blobfish's unique anatomy allows it to thrive in deep waters, but its population is vulnerable due to deep-sea trawling.
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On March 19, 2025, Ukraine and Russia executed a significant prisoner exchange, with Ukraine's President Zelenskyy announcing the return of 197 soldiers. This exchange included severely wounded captives and was facilitated by negotiations involving the United Arab Emirates. The event highlights ongoing discussions about a potential ceasefire amid the ongoing conflict.
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Apple is reportedly set to release a foldable iPhone within the next year, with analysts predicting a starting price between $2,299 and $2,500. This would make it the most expensive iPhone to date, surpassing the current iPhone 16 Pro Max. The device is expected to feature a thin design and multiple cameras.
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President Trump announced plans for a minerals deal with Ukraine aimed at enhancing U.S. production of critical minerals. This follows discussions with Russian and Ukrainian leaders regarding the ongoing conflict, with Trump expressing optimism about achieving peace and reducing casualties.
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Aimee Bock, founder of Feeding Our Future, was convicted of wire fraud and bribery for orchestrating a scheme that exploited COVID-19 relief funds. Along with co-defendant Salim Said, Bock was found guilty of defrauding the government of nearly $250 million intended for child meal assistance programs. Sentencing is pending.
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Chinese officials are implementing strategies to boost consumption and stabilize the economy amid ongoing trade tensions and deflation risks. Key measures include a 30-point plan to enhance consumer confidence and monetary policy adjustments aimed at stimulating growth. Experts express cautious optimism about achieving a 5% growth target for 2025.
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Intensifying clashes between Sudan's army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement in Khartoum. Meanwhile, South Sudan faces renewed violence as tensions rise between government forces and the White Army, threatening a fragile peace agreement.
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Severe flooding in southern Spain has led to evacuations and road closures as Storm Laurence wreaks havoc across Andalusia. A couple was swept away in their vehicle, with one body recovered. Authorities are on high alert as rivers overflow and emergency services respond to numerous incidents.
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The U.S. has suspended a coordinated effort to counter Russian sabotage and cyberattacks, easing pressure on Moscow amid ongoing tensions over Ukraine. This decision follows a series of warnings from intelligence agencies about Russia's escalating covert operations against Western nations.
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Canada's Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly condemned the recent executions of several Canadian citizens in China, emphasizing ongoing diplomatic tensions. The Chinese government defended the actions, citing strict penalties for drug-related crimes. Canada continues to advocate for clemency for its citizens facing similar charges.
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Donald Trump has intensified his attacks on media outlets, labeling CNN and MSNBC as corrupt and illegal during a speech at the Department of Justice. His administration's ongoing conflicts with the press, including restrictions on the Associated Press, highlight a broader struggle over media freedom and accountability in the current political climate.
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M23 rebels have seized control of Walikale, a strategic mining town in eastern DRC, amid escalating conflict. This advance follows a failed ceasefire negotiation between DRC and Rwandan leaders, raising concerns over humanitarian impacts and regional stability. The town's capture disrupts military positions and threatens local mining operations.
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A Ukrainian drone attack on the Engels airfield, home to Russia's nuclear-capable bombers, resulted in significant explosions and injuries. This strike follows a recent agreement between Ukraine and Russia to pause attacks on energy infrastructure, raising questions about the viability of peace talks amid ongoing hostilities.
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SVL has been awarded NICE Platinum Partner status, recognizing its expertise in AI-driven automation and customer engagement solutions. This milestone enhances SVL's capabilities to support contact centers in improving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. The partnership aims to leverage advanced technologies to meet the growing demand for seamless customer interactions.
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Hong Kong's Housing Bureau plans to implement new policies aimed at wealthy tenants in public housing. The proposed measures include increased rental rates and a four-year limit on residency, while allowing tenants to apply for subsidized homes as Green Form applicants. This follows concerns over the misuse of public housing resources.
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Herbert Smith Freehills has been fined £465,000 by the UK government for making payments to sanctioned Russian banks through its former Moscow office. The penalty follows a review by the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation, which cited a pattern of failings during the firm's closure of its Russian operations in 2022.
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Nowruz, meaning 'New Day' in Persian, is celebrated by over 300 million people worldwide. This ancient festival, rooted in Zoroastrianism, marks the spring equinox and the start of the Persian New Year. Celebrations include home cleaning, family gatherings, and traditional dishes, culminating in a 13-day festival that emphasizes renewal and connection.
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The U.S. Supreme Court is set to consider the Trump administration's request to lift nationwide injunctions blocking a policy that would end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants. This case marks a significant legal battle over the interpretation of the 14th Amendment and the use of nationwide injunctions.
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On March 21, 2025, China announced a comprehensive 30-point plan aimed at stimulating domestic consumption and addressing economic challenges. The plan includes measures to raise household incomes, improve childcare and elderly care, and stabilize the property market, reflecting a shift towards a consumption-driven growth model amidst declining tax revenues and external pressures from tariffs.
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The Transportation Safety Board of Canada continues to investigate the Feb. 17 crash of Delta Flight 4819, which resulted in 21 injuries but no fatalities. The report highlights a rapid descent and landing gear failure, with ongoing inquiries into the causes and circumstances surrounding the incident.
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Huawei has appointed Wang Yunhe as the new head of its AI research unit, Noah's Ark Lab, replacing Yao Jun. This change reflects Huawei's efforts to enhance its AI capabilities amid US sanctions. The move follows a trend of talent acquisition in China's AI sector, highlighted by DeepSeek's recent advancements.
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Air France is investing in its first-class service to compete with British Airways and Lufthansa, aiming to attract luxury travelers. The new cabins will debut on select Boeing 777-300ER planes, featuring private suites and enhanced amenities, reflecting a shift towards luxury in air travel.
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A truck accident near Nyanya Bridge, Abuja, resulted in six fatalities after a cement-laden trailer lost control and collided with 14 vehicles. The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns on Nigeria's roads, exacerbated by a lack of efficient cargo transport systems.
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Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner withdrew a resolution to evict O Cinema over its screening of the Oscar-winning documentary 'No Other Land.' The decision followed significant public opposition and highlighted tensions surrounding free speech and artistic expression in the city.
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In response to a series of vandalism incidents targeting Tesla vehicles, Attorney General Pam Bondi has labeled the perpetrators as domestic terrorists. The FBI is investigating these attacks, which have escalated amid protests against Elon Musk's job cuts and government efficiency measures. Multiple suspects have been charged, with severe penalties anticipated.
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Olivier Grondeau, a French citizen detained in Iran for 887 days, has been released, as announced by President Macron. His release coincides with ongoing negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program. Two other French nationals remain imprisoned, prompting calls for their release from the French government.
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Former Papua New Guinea Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina had assault charges against him withdrawn in a Sydney court. The charges stemmed from an alleged incident in July 2024. Maladina, who maintains his innocence, was seen smiling after the magistrate dismissed the case.
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On March 20, 2025, reports emerged that the South African Chamber of Commerce submitted a list of 67,042 Afrikaners seeking refugee status in the U.S. This follows Trump's executive order aimed at providing humanitarian relief to this group, citing alleged discrimination in South Africa.
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Amid rising tensions with the U.S., Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has directed Defense Minister Bill Blair to reassess the $19 billion contract for 88 F-35 fighter jets. The review aims to explore alternative options, including the Swedish Saab Gripen, as Canada seeks to diversify its defense procurement strategy.
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On March 20, 2025, New York's Court of Appeals ruled 6-1 that the state constitution restricts voting to citizens, effectively nullifying a 2021 law allowing noncitizens to vote in local elections. The decision ends a contentious debate over noncitizen voting rights in New York City.
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The Trump administration has threatened to withhold federal funding from New York's Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) unless it addresses subway crime concerns. This comes amid ongoing disputes over the city's congestion pricing program, which aims to reduce traffic and fund transit improvements.
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A microalgal bloom has caused health issues for beachgoers and led to the death of marine life along Waitpinga and Parsons Beaches in South Australia. Symptoms reported include coughing and sore throats. The beaches have been closed as authorities investigate the cause of the bloom and its effects on both humans and wildlife.
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Jeanette Vizguerra, a prominent immigration activist, was arrested by ICE at a Denver Target store on March 17, 2025. Her detention has sparked protests and criticism from local officials, who argue it represents a targeted attack on dissent against the Trump administration's immigration policies.
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Recent court rulings have mandated the reinstatement of thousands of federal probationary employees dismissed under President Trump's administration. Agencies are navigating the complexities of these reinstatements while preparing for further layoffs, raising questions about the legality and process of these firings as the administration's reduction efforts continue.
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The World Meteorological Organization confirmed 2024 as the hottest year on record, with global temperatures reaching 1.55°C above pre-industrial levels. Concurrently, Hawaii's volcano monitoring efforts face potential disruption due to federal lease cancellations linked to cost-cutting measures by the government, jeopardizing vital scientific research and public safety warnings.
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As wildfires continue to devastate communities, insurance companies are significantly raising rates. State Farm proposes a 22% increase for homeowners in California, while Wyoming limits utility liability for wildfire damages. These changes reflect the growing financial strain on insurers and homeowners alike, exacerbated by climate change and increasing wildfire risks.
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Google has announced a $32 billion all-cash acquisition of cybersecurity startup Wiz, marking the largest deal in Alphabet's history. The acquisition aims to enhance Google Cloud's security offerings amid increasing competition in the cloud computing market. The deal is expected to close in 2026, pending regulatory approvals.
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Carl Erik Rinsch, director of '47 Ronin,' was arrested on federal charges of wire fraud and money laundering. Prosecutors allege he defrauded Netflix of over $55 million intended for an unfinished series, 'White Horse,' using the funds for personal expenses and risky investments.
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A North Dakota jury has ruled that Greenpeace must pay over $650 million to Energy Transfer and Dakota Access for defamation and other claims related to protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline. Greenpeace plans to appeal, asserting that the lawsuit threatens free speech rights.
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A wrongful death lawsuit has been filed against Boeing by the family of John Barnett, a former quality manager who died by suicide in March 2024. The suit claims Boeing's harassment and retaliation contributed to his mental health decline. Barnett had raised safety concerns about the company's aircraft before his death.
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New evidence suggests Betsy Arakawa, wife of actor Gene Hackman, may have died on February 12, not February 11 as previously reported. A doctor claims she called his clinic seeking medical advice the day after her supposed death, prompting authorities to revise their timeline of events.
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On March 21, 2025, Venus will undergo an inferior conjunction, appearing both as the 'Morning Star' and 'Evening Star' in the Northern Hemisphere. This rare visibility will not occur again until 2033, providing a unique opportunity for stargazers to observe the planet's transition.
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Recent developments in U.S.-Mexico relations have led to significant legal changes for drug lords. Rafael Caro Quintero may face the death penalty after being expelled from Mexico, while two smugglers were convicted for a deadly 2022 incident in San Antonio. These events highlight shifting policies and the ongoing border crisis.
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A year after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy criticized Maryland officials for failing to assess bridge vulnerabilities. The incident, which killed six workers, has raised alarms about the safety of numerous bridges nationwide, with calls for urgent assessments to prevent future disasters.
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A shooting incident occurred at Corewell Health Beaumont Troy Hospital today, prompting a large police response. The suspect remains at large, and authorities have advised the public to avoid the area. One person is receiving medical treatment, but details on injuries or fatalities are unclear.