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During a mass shooting at Bondi Beach, Ahmed al-Ahmed disarmed one attacker, saving multiple lives. He was shot in the process and remains hospitalized. The attack, carried out by a father and son, resulted in 15 deaths. Authorities are investigating and considering stricter gun laws.
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On the first day of Hanukkah, a father and son targeted a Jewish gathering at Bondi Beach, killing 16 people including a child, a rabbi, and a Holocaust survivor. The attack, considered antisemitic terrorism, has prompted Australia to strengthen gun laws amid rising antisemitic incidents and concerns over security.
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The US has announced the lifting of sanctions on Belarusian potash after talks with President Lukashenko, who released 123 prisoners. The move signals a step toward improving relations, though Belarus continues to face criticism over political repression and its alliance with Russia. The story highlights ongoing diplomatic negotiations.
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On December 15, 2025, Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was found guilty of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and conspiracy to publish seditious materials under the national security law. Lai, a British citizen and founder of the pro-democracy Apple Daily, has spent five years in custody, with his health reportedly deteriorating. The verdict marks a significant moment in Beijing's crackdown on dissent.
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Jimmy Lai, founder of Apple Daily, was found guilty of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces under Hong Kong's national security law. The 78-year-old faces life imprisonment amid international criticism and concerns over press freedom and judicial independence. Lai's health has deteriorated in detention, prompting calls for his release.
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A terror attack at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney has killed 15 people, including Rabbi Eli Schlanger, and injured dozens. The attack targeted families during the first night of Hanukkah, with one gunman killed and another in critical condition. Authorities are investigating as a hate crime.
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Western leaders, including the UK, France, and Germany, reaffirm support for Ukraine amid ongoing peace negotiations. They emphasize security guarantees, military aid, and economic reconstruction, while discussions continue on using frozen Russian assets for Ukraine's recovery. US and European efforts aim to bolster Ukraine's defenses and seek a just peace.
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iRobot, known for its robotic vacuums, has filed for bankruptcy and is being acquired by its main manufacturer, Picea. The move follows failed acquisition attempts by Amazon and ongoing financial struggles, including declining sales and a significant stock drop. The company aims to continue operations during the bankruptcy process.
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Two men linked to the Bondi Beach attack that killed 15 people traveled from Sydney to Davao, Philippines, on Nov 1 and returned on Nov 28. Australian authorities are investigating possible links to ISIS and regional militant activity, with the suspects having traveled through Mindanao, a region with a history of Islamic insurgency.
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On December 7, 2025, Lando Norris clinched his first Formula 1 World Championship at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, narrowly beating Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri by two points. Verstappen won the race, but Norris’s third-place finish secured the title after a season-long three-way battle. The 2026 season will bring major technical changes, including the removal of DRS.
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Narges Mohammadi, a Nobel laureate and human rights activist, was re-arrested in Iran after denouncing the suspicious death of lawyer Khosrow Alikordi. She was previously released on medical furlough but was detained following her speech at a memorial ceremony. Her physical condition appears critical, prompting calls for her immediate release.
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A gunman opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, Sydney, killing at least 15 people, including a child and a Holocaust survivor. The attack, deemed antisemitic terrorism, lasted over seven minutes and prompted a swift police response. Several bystanders intervened, and the shooter was shot by a civilian.
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As of December 15, 2025, Israel's Supreme Court upheld the ICC's jurisdiction to investigate alleged war crimes linked to the 2023 Gaza conflict, maintaining arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Concurrently, Netanyahu has formally requested a presidential pardon amid ongoing corruption trials, denying wrongdoing and refusing to resign. The pardon request follows U.S. pressure and has sparked political controversy within Israel.
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On December 7, 2025, mutinous soldiers in Benin briefly seized state television, declared a coup removing President Patrice Talon, and suspended the constitution. Loyalist forces, supported decisively by Nigerian airstrikes and ECOWAS standby troops, swiftly regained control. Fourteen arrests were made; the coup leader, Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri, remains at large. The incident underscores regional instability amid rising military takeovers in West Africa.
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For the third consecutive year, Sudan leads the IRC's list of the 20 countries most at risk of worsening humanitarian emergencies, driven by ongoing conflict since April 2023 that has displaced over 12 million people amid resource shortages and violence.
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On December 13, 2025, a drone attack on a UN peacekeeping base in Kadugli, South Kordofan, Sudan, killed six Bangladeshi troops and injured eight. The Sudanese military blamed the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which denied involvement. UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the attack, calling it a potential war crime amid Sudan's ongoing civil war.
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As of December 15, 2025, Ukrainian President Zelensky met with European leaders in London and Brussels amid stalled peace talks driven by a US-backed plan requiring Ukraine to cede parts of the Donbas region to Russia. The US, led by President Trump, pushes for a deal, while Ukraine and Europe resist territorial concessions. Russia continues attacks, and funding Ukraine's defense remains uncertain.
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Lithuania has declared a nationwide emergency over a surge in Belarusian balloons used for cigarette smuggling. The balloons disrupt flights and border security, with authorities suspecting Belarusian involvement in a hybrid attack aimed at destabilizing Lithuania amid tense regional relations.
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Heavy rains caused flash floods in Safi, Morocco, killing at least 37 people, injuring 32, and flooding dozens of homes and businesses. Authorities warn of more rain, amid ongoing drought and climate change impacts that increase flood risks.
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Ukraine has agreed to seek legally binding security guarantees from the US, Europe, and other allies instead of NATO membership, marking a major diplomatic shift amid ongoing peace negotiations and Russian aggression. The move aims to prevent further conflict but departs from Kyiv’s long-standing NATO aspirations.
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On December 15, 2025, Ford announced it will cease production of the fully electric F-150 Lightning and cancel several EV models, including the next-gen T3 truck and electric vans. The company will pivot to extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) and hybrids, aiming for 50% of global sales from electrified vehicles by 2030. Ford expects a $19.5 billion writedown primarily in Q4 2025 due to these changes.
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Japan will return its remaining pandas, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, to China by late January, ending a half-century tradition of panda diplomacy. The move reflects worsening Japan-China relations amid geopolitical tensions, with no immediate plans for new pandas to replace them. Public sentiment remains strong, with visitors expressing disappointment.
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As of December 16, 2025, the EU remains deadlocked over a €90 billion 'reparations loan' to fund Ukraine's 2026-27 budget using frozen Russian assets, mostly held in Belgium's Euroclear. Belgium opposes the plan, fearing legal and financial risks, demanding guarantees from other EU states. The European Commission insists the plan is vital for Ukraine's defense and peace leverage, while Russia condemns it as theft and threatens retaliation.
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Reddit has filed a legal challenge in the High Court against Australia's new law requiring social media platforms to restrict users under 16. The company argues the law infringes on free political communication and is improperly applied, despite plans to comply. The case follows similar challenges from other platforms and government enforcement efforts.
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Chile's presidential runoff resulted in a victory for Jose Antonio Kast, a far-right candidate promising tough-on-crime policies and immigration controls. Kast secured over 58% of the vote against leftist Jeannette Jara, amid concerns over rising crime, migration, and economic stability. The result signals a major political shift in the country.
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The US military launched lethal strikes on three vessels in international waters, killing at least 95 people since September. The attacks target alleged drug traffickers along narco-trafficking routes, amid regional tensions and legal controversy over the legality of the strikes.
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EU member states are debating the ratification of a long-delayed trade agreement with Mercosur, involving Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. France and others oppose the deal due to concerns over agricultural imports and environmental standards, risking a delay or collapse of the agreement scheduled for signing this week.
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Israeli forces continue raids and airstrikes across Gaza and the West Bank, violating the ceasefire. Heavy rainfall worsens humanitarian conditions in Gaza, with casualties and destruction rising. Israel's court rulings support ongoing investigations into war crimes, while border crossings and remains exchanges are slowly resuming.
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U.S. health officials, under the influence of Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., have reversed decades of vaccination policy by ending universal hepatitis B vaccination for newborns. The move, driven by a panel with controversial appointees, faces widespread criticism from medical groups and public health experts, raising concerns over increased hepatitis B risks.
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NASA is preparing for upcoming Artemis lunar missions, including deploying robotic rover MAPP to study lunar dust and plasma environments. Meanwhile, a new report emphasizes prioritizing Mars life detection and resource utilization, amid strategic competition with China. NASA's plans involve international collaboration and private sector engagement.
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Gaza is enduring severe winter storms, with at least 12 deaths, including children, due to exposure, flooding, and building collapses. Displaced families face worsening conditions with limited aid, damaged shelters, and ongoing Israeli restrictions, deepening the humanitarian crisis amid ongoing conflict.
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Brigitte Macron was secretly recorded calling activists 'stupid bitches' after they disrupted a show of Ary Abittan, who was accused of rape but not charged. The incident sparked widespread criticism from politicians, feminists, and celebrities, highlighting tensions over protest methods and gender issues in France.
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Ukrainian forces have conducted multiple sea drone strikes on vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet in the Black Sea, damaging tankers used for oil exports. The attacks aim to disrupt Russia’s economic activities amid ongoing conflict, with recent strikes marking the third in two weeks. No casualties reported.
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Recent meetings between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders show renewed efforts to restart peace negotiations. Discussions focused on confidence-building measures, trade, and water supply projects, with leaders emphasizing the importance of trust and preparing for potential UN-led talks amid ongoing tensions.
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EU leaders are considering a plan to use €210 billion of frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine's military and economy. The move involves complex legal and diplomatic challenges, including Russia's opposition and lawsuits against Euroclear, which holds most of the assets. The decision will be made at the upcoming EU summit.
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Serbian prosecutors have charged four senior officials, including Culture Minister Nikola Selaković, with abuse of power linked to a controversial redevelopment project in Belgrade. The project involves a Kushner-linked firm and has sparked widespread opposition amid allegations of forgery and illegal lifting of heritage protections. The case highlights ongoing tensions over foreign investment and national sovereignty.
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Pakistan reports a decline in polio cases to 30 since January, down from 74 last year, amid ongoing vaccination campaigns despite security threats. The campaign is synchronized with Afghanistan to prevent cross-border transmission, with significant progress noted in virus containment.
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U.S. and European leaders, including Zelensky, met in Berlin to advance peace talks amid ongoing conflict. Trump claimed progress toward ending Russia's war in Ukraine, with discussions focusing on security guarantees and territorial issues. Russia remains opposed to key concessions, complicating negotiations.
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ECOWAS leaders have declared a state of emergency amid recent military coups in West Africa, including Guinea-Bissau and Benin. The bloc is moving from reactive sanctions to proactive military and diplomatic actions, with Nigeria supporting Benin's government and deploying forces to restore order. The situation underscores regional instability.
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French museum workers at the Louvre are planning a strike on December 15, citing security failures, resource shortages, and deteriorating working conditions following a high-profile jewelry theft and ongoing operational issues. The strike could lead to temporary closures during the busy holiday season.
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Filipino fishermen were injured and vessels damaged in a confrontation with Chinese coast guard ships near Sabina Shoal. China claims sovereignty over the area, despite an international tribunal ruling against its expansive claims. The Philippines has issued diplomatic protests, and the US has expressed support for Manila.
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A mass shooting at Brown University in Rhode Island has resulted in two deaths and nine injuries, echoing past trauma for students who have survived previous school shootings. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence in the US and its impact on educational communities, occurring during a period of heightened political debate.
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Lindsey Vonn, at age 41, won her 83rd World Cup race in St. Moritz, becoming the oldest winner in circuit history. Her performance signals a potential extended season and Olympic success, challenging perceptions of age in elite sports.
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A Congolese national, Lumbala, was convicted in France for atrocities committed during the Second Congo War, marking the first time a Congolese leader has been tried domestically for mass crimes under universal jurisdiction. The trial highlights ongoing issues of impunity and conflict in eastern Congo.
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Tia Billinger, known as Bonnie Blue, was detained in Bali for allegedly creating pornographic content. She was deported after police found equipment and violations of visa laws. She publicly supported Nigel Farage amid her legal issues, drawing international attention.
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Ukrainian drones have targeted Russian oil platforms in the Caspian Sea, damaging key infrastructure and halting production at major oil fields. This marks Kyiv's intensified effort to disrupt Moscow's energy revenue amid ongoing conflict and diplomatic talks.
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Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed readiness for dialogue with Western and European leaders amid ongoing Russian attacks. Talks in Berlin focus on a ceasefire and peace negotiations, with Kyiv seeking support from the US and allies. Recent Russian strikes have caused casualties and damage in Ukraine.
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The US intercepted the Skipper tanker off Venezuela, marking the first seizure of Venezuelan oil cargo since sanctions in 2019. The move comes amid a military buildup in the Caribbean and regional support for Maduro, raising regional tensions and affecting Venezuelan oil exports and Cuba's power supply.
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The EU has imposed new sanctions on individuals and companies supporting Russia's shadow fleet, which continues to export Russian oil to countries like India and China at discounted prices. Despite 19 rounds of sanctions, Russia adapts through illicit shipping networks, funding its Ukraine war effort.
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Multiple sources reveal China's extensive use of surveillance technology, much of it originating from U.S. companies, to track officials, dissidents, and their families worldwide. High-profile cases include Chinese ex-officials fleeing abroad and being targeted through advanced monitoring tools, raising concerns over human rights and sovereignty.
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President Trump pardoned turkeys Waddle and Gobble during a Thanksgiving event, but the ceremony was marked by political insults, jokes about crime, and attacks on Illinois Governor Pritzker. Trump claimed Biden's pardons were invalid and criticized Chicago's crime, continuing his combative tone. The story highlights his inflammatory rhetoric and ongoing political feud.
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Tony Geary, renowned for his role as Luke Spencer on 'General Hospital,' died in Amsterdam of complications from surgery. He was 78. Geary's career spanned over 40 years, earning eight Daytime Emmy awards. His death prompts tributes from colleagues and fans worldwide.
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Jeff Simmons of the Tennessee Titans returned home after a game against the 49ers to find his house burglarized by at least six suspects. The suspects gained entry by smashing a window, and several items were stolen. Simmons expressed relief his family was not present and praised police response. The incident follows a pattern of athlete burglaries linked to organized crime groups targeting homes while players are away.
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Iain Douglas-Hamilton, a renowned zoologist and elephant conservationist, died at age 83 in Kenya. He dedicated decades to protecting elephants, exposing poaching crises, and advocating for wildlife. His death marks a significant loss for conservation efforts worldwide.
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Iran has introduced a third gasoline price tier as the rial hits record lows, worsening inflation and economic hardship. Despite the increase, fuel remains among the cheapest globally. The move follows recent sanctions and ongoing tensions over Iran's nuclear program and regional conflicts.
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Regional powers including China, Pakistan, Russia, and Central Asian states gathered in Iran to discuss Afghanistan's future, but the Taliban-led government declined to attend, citing ongoing engagement with regional organizations. The talks focused on security, economic ties, and reducing tensions with Pakistan amid ongoing border clashes.
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A DoorDash worker in Indiana was charged after allegedly spraying a substance on a delivery, causing illness to the recipients. The incident was caught on a doorbell camera, and the driver was arrested after being identified. The case raises concerns about food safety and delivery platform oversight.
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Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon on December 14 killed at least three people, despite a ceasefire with Hezbollah. Israel claims to target Hezbollah members rearming, while Lebanon reports civilian casualties. The strikes follow ongoing tensions and delayed disarmament efforts, with diplomatic talks scheduled for December 19.
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Seven men and two women were found dead in Ras Asfour, Morocco, from exposure to extreme cold. Most were from sub-Saharan Africa, with one from Guinea. The incident highlights ongoing risks faced by migrants attempting to reach Europe via North Africa, amid increased border enforcement and humanitarian concerns.
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China will impose a 13% VAT on contraceptive products starting January 2026, reversing a long-standing exemption. The move aims to encourage higher fertility amid population decline but raises concerns about increased unplanned pregnancies and health risks. Experts believe the impact on birth rates will be limited.
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Ukraine's SBU announced it used underwater drones to damage a Russian Kilo-class submarine at Novorossiysk, marking a historic first. The attack damages Russia's Black Sea fleet amid ongoing tensions and Ukraine's efforts to weaken Russian naval capabilities.
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Recent statements by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi about a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan have escalated tensions with China. Beijing has responded with historical references and military warnings, amid ongoing disputes over Taiwan, regional security, and historical grievances related to the 1937 Nanjing massacre. Diplomatic and military incidents have increased in recent days.
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On December 12, 2025, US authorities arrested four members of the Turtle Island Liberation Front in the Mojave Desert, disrupting a planned series of bombings targeting multiple locations in Southern California on New Year's Eve. The plot included attacks on logistics centers and ICE agents, with suspects charged for conspiracy and possession of destructive devices.
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Recent weeks have seen increased hostility towards Somali Americans in Minnesota, driven by inflammatory remarks from President Trump, immigration enforcement actions, and a major welfare fraud scandal. Community members report rising racism, arrests, and fear, amid political and social upheaval.
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Tesla is testing driverless robotaxis in Austin without safety monitors, signaling progress in its autonomous vehicle plans. The company has increased its fleet and aims to deploy fully autonomous taxis soon, amid regulatory and technical challenges. Tesla's efforts are closely watched as competitors like Waymo expand their services.
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A winter storm caused heavy snowfall and icy conditions in New York City, leading to widespread flight delays and cancellations at JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports. Ground stops and snow removal efforts significantly slowed air traffic, with delays exceeding five hours in some cases. The storm is expected to clear by Sunday afternoon.
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Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is participating in meetings in Berlin with US and European officials to discuss proposals for ending the Ukraine conflict. The talks include US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, ahead of a summit with European leaders on Monday. Details of the negotiations remain undisclosed.
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The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear a case challenging the removal of books on race, gender, and sexuality from a rural Texas library. The lower court's decision, which sided with the county, allows the ban to stand, raising concerns about free speech and First Amendment rights amid ongoing book bans nationwide.
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The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival revealed its 2026 lineup, featuring over 120 artists including Eagles, Stevie Nicks, Rod Stewart, and Jamaican acts. The event will highlight Jamaican culture following Hurricane Melissa, with a focus on community and musical diversity across two weekends in April.