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As of early December 2025, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has paused green card, citizenship, and asylum applications from nationals of 19 countries previously designated as high-risk under a 2025 travel ban. This follows a November attack in Washington by an Afghan national granted asylum. USCIS will conduct comprehensive reviews and interviews for immigrants from these countries who entered since January 2021, with no set date to lift the pause.
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Following a shooting in Washington, D.C., by Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan asylum seeker with a military background, debates have intensified over vetting processes for refugees. The incident raises questions about U.S. immigration policies, especially amid political calls for stricter reviews of Afghan arrivals post-withdrawal.
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Tajikistan faces border attacks from Afghanistan, killing five Chinese workers. Tajik authorities discuss deploying Russian forces for border patrol, amid ongoing tensions with Taliban Afghanistan. China urges citizens to evacuate the border area as Tajikistan tightens security.
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President Trump announced a new travel pause affecting 19 countries, including Afghanistan and Somalia, citing national security concerns after recent attacks. The move expands previous restrictions, halting processing of immigration applications and reviewing existing approvals amid heightened security fears.
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The historic Ariana Cinema in Kabul was torn down starting December 16, replaced by a shopping complex. The Taliban government, which seized power in 2021, ordered the closure of cinemas and the dissolution of the Afghan Film Administration, citing economic and ideological priorities. The cinema was a cultural landmark since 1963, symbolizing Afghanistan's modern history and resistance through decades of conflict.
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Britain's MoD has ordered an investigation into allegations that UK special forces killed 54 Afghans in suspicious circumstances during 2010-2013. The inquiry follows a BBC documentary and internal reports suggesting possible war crimes and cover-ups involving elite SAS units and senior officers.
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In early December 2025, President Donald Trump launched a harsh verbal attack on Somali immigrants in Minnesota, calling them "garbage" and claiming they contribute nothing to the US. He also criticized Somali-born Congresswoman Ilhan Omar. These remarks coincided with federal plans for immigration enforcement operations targeting Somali residents, sparking local political backlash and highlighting ongoing tensions over immigration policy.
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Tensions flared along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border today, with both sides blaming each other for renewed clashes near key crossings. Despite a fragile ceasefire, border crossings at Chaman and Torkham are now temporarily open for UN relief shipments, but remain closed for trade and travel. The conflict follows recent deadly clashes and ongoing disputes over militant activity and border security.
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The US government is reviewing Afghan immigration cases following a shooting incident involving an Afghan national. President Trump announced a pause on Afghan asylum applications and a re-examination of recent arrivals, citing national security concerns amid rising hostility towards Afghan immigrants in the US.
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Australia has established a new autonomous sanctions framework targeting Taliban officials involved in oppressing women and undermining governance in Afghanistan. The measures include travel bans, arms embargoes, and prohibitions on dealings with assets, reflecting ongoing international concern over restrictions on women's rights since 2021.
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A migrant boat sank southwest of Crete, resulting in at least 17 deaths and two survivors. The vessel, found half-submerged after bad weather, was carrying 34 people from Libya, Egypt, South Sudan, and Sudan. Rescue efforts are ongoing amid rising migrant crossings from Libya and Greece's tighter policies.
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Pakistan's Deputy Interior Minister claims that social media accounts linked to militants operate from Afghanistan and India, spreading extremist content and supporting outlawed groups. Pakistan warns these activities threaten regional security amid ongoing border clashes and violence, with limited cooperation from social media platforms.
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An attack in Bajaur, Pakistan, targeted polio workers during a nationwide vaccination drive, with no injuries reported. Suspicion falls on militant groups, amid ongoing efforts to eradicate polio in Pakistan and Afghanistan, the last two countries where the virus persists.
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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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Malawi is experiencing a food emergency with over four million people at risk of malnutrition due to drought, flooding, and economic hardship. Meanwhile, Afghanistan faces a worsening hunger crisis with over 17 million people food insecure amid aid cuts and natural disasters. Both countries' crises are driven by climate, economic, and political factors.
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On December 21, 2025, the winter solstice was observed across the Northern Hemisphere, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year. Celebrations included gatherings at Stonehenge and cultural events in Iran and the Arab world, highlighting both scientific and cultural traditions surrounding this astronomical event.
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December 21 marked the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. While Gulf countries note it as an astronomical milestone, Iran and Persian communities celebrate Yalda, an ancient festival symbolizing rebirth and light. The event marks the start of winter and the return of longer days.
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A militant attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Karak district killed four police officers and a driver. The assault involved explosives and gunfire, with no group claiming responsibility. Pakistan blames Afghan Taliban for planning from across the border amid ongoing tensions and border clashes.
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Tajikistan reports killing three alleged terrorists crossing from Afghanistan, amid ongoing border clashes. Afghan authorities investigate, while regional tensions persist. Meanwhile, humanitarian crises deepen in Afghanistan, Myanmar, and Sudan, with aid cuts worsening conditions for millions. The stories highlight ongoing instability and humanitarian challenges in these regions.
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Afghanistan's traditional sport, buzkashi, concluded its 11-day national tournament with northern Sar-e-Pul winning 7-0. The event, revived after Taliban restrictions, featured 11 provincial teams and international participants, drawing thousands of spectators in Kabul. The sport remains a cultural symbol despite political challenges.
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A man detained under the Mental Health Act attacked staff and injured six people at Newton Community Hospital in Merseyside. He was arrested and the scene remains active. All victims are stable. The incident followed a refused appointment request and involved a metal bar.
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Severe flooding in Afghanistan's Herat province has caused at least five deaths, including a family of five when their roof collapsed. The floods, ongoing since Monday, have damaged infrastructure, killed livestock, and affected 1,800 families across multiple regions. The UN has launched a $1.7 billion aid appeal for nearly 18 million people in need.
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A series of militant attacks in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province have resulted in multiple casualties. The Pakistani government blames groups linked to India and Afghanistan, amid ongoing tensions and regional security concerns. No group has claimed responsibility for the latest attack, which involved a remote-controlled bomb targeting police personnel.
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Since January 20, 2026, the Trump administration launched "Operation Catch of the Day," targeting roughly 1,400 immigrants in Maine, focusing on those with alleged criminal records. Governor Janet Mills and local leaders criticize the operation for secrecy and community disruption, especially in Portland and Lewiston's immigrant populations. The raids coincide with a broader visa suspension affecting 75 countries, including many African nations, amid heightened immigration enforcement nationwide.
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The UN warns of a deepening food crisis across West and Central Africa, driven by conflict, economic hardship, and reduced humanitarian funding. Over 13 million children face malnutrition, with communities in Nigeria, Mali, Cameroon, and Niger at increasing risk of famine. Urgent funding is needed to prevent catastrophe.
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On Monday, a suicide bomber attacked a Chinese restaurant in Kabul's Shahr-e-Naw district, killing at least seven people, including one Chinese national, and wounding five others. The Islamic State's Afghanistan affiliate claimed responsibility, linking the attack to China's treatment of Uyghur Muslims. China has urged Afghan authorities to protect its citizens and warned its nationals to avoid travel to Afghanistan.
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Donald Trump claimed NATO allies, including Britain, stayed back from front lines in Afghanistan, causing outrage among veterans and politicians. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and others condemned his remarks, which diminish the sacrifices of thousands of troops. The controversy highlights tensions over NATO's role and Trump's stance on alliance commitments.
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A suicide bombing at a wedding in Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan, has killed seven people, including four who died in hospital. The attack targeted a peace committee house, with no group claiming responsibility but suspicion falling on the Pakistani Taliban amid ongoing regional violence.
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UK Prime Minister and veterans condemned Donald Trump for dismissing British sacrifices in Afghanistan, claiming NATO allies 'stayed back' during the conflict. Trump’s comments sparked outrage, with UK officials emphasizing the importance of collective NATO efforts and honoring fallen soldiers. The controversy highlights tensions over historical military contributions and current diplomatic relations.
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Recent heavy snow and rain in Afghanistan have caused at least 61 deaths, injured over 100, and destroyed hundreds of homes across 15 provinces. The country remains highly vulnerable due to decades of conflict, poor infrastructure, and climate change, with ongoing humanitarian crises and UN aid efforts.
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Former US President Trump made comments suggesting NATO troops, including British soldiers, stayed off front lines in Afghanistan, prompting criticism from UK leaders, Prince Harry, and European allies. Trump later acknowledged UK casualties but stopped short of an apology, escalating diplomatic tensions.
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Donald Trump faced widespread criticism in Britain and Europe after claiming that European troops stayed off the front lines in Afghanistan. His comments, which downplayed NATO allies' sacrifices, drew strong responses from UK officials and veterans, including Prince Harry. The UK government called for an apology, but Trump did not issue one.
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French Defense Minister Alice Rufo laid a wreath in Paris for fallen soldiers, emphasizing their sacrifice. Trump claimed NATO troops avoided frontlines in Afghanistan, provoking outrage in Britain. He later praised British soldiers, but did not mention others, leading to diplomatic tensions.
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Over 1,100 Afghans, including civilians and former military women, are held at Qatar's Camp As Sayliyah. The US and Qatar face criticism over payments offered for voluntary repatriation, amid concerns about coercion and safety ahead of the facility's closure at the end of March.
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Merz, speaking to the German parliament, emphasized Europe's need to assert itself amid rising global tensions. He highlighted the importance of NATO, cooperation with the US, and Europe's strategic independence, amid recent US-initiated disputes over tariffs and Greenland. The speech underscores Europe's push for greater military and economic resilience.
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Donald Trump issued a social media clarification after claiming US and UK troops stayed off the front lines in Afghanistan, provoking widespread criticism. He praised British soldiers but stopped short of apologizing, amid diplomatic concerns and reactions from UK and European leaders. The story highlights ongoing tensions over military alliances and historical sacrifices.
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Recent Cambodian efforts to dismantle online scam operations have led to a mass exodus of scam workers, creating a humanitarian crisis. Over 100,000 have fled, many traumatized and unsupported, as authorities intensify crackdowns following border clashes and international pressure. Shelters are overwhelmed, and victims struggle to return home.
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The Virginia Supreme Court has reversed a 2020 adoption of an Afghan girl by U.S. parents, citing legal flaws and a law that bars challenges after six months. The case highlights procedural irregularities and international diplomatic tensions surrounding the child's custody amid a complex bureaucratic failure.
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The UK has reduced its aid to the World Food Programme from $610m in 2024 to $435m last year, despite promises to fight hunger. Critics say the cuts risk lives, with rising starvation worldwide and the UK’s aid spending falling behind international commitments. The government defends the decision as part of budget reallocation.
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On Tuesday night, a Greek coastguard patrol boat collided with a migrant speedboat near Chios, killing at least 15 migrants and injuring 24 others, including children and two coastguard officers. The incident has sparked investigations amid questions over the patrol boat's conduct and Greece's migration enforcement policies.
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A powerful photo at the Winter Olympics shows Italian athletes celebrating gold on home soil. Taken in freezing conditions, it captures raw emotion and triumph, emphasizing the authenticity of the moment and the athletes' pride after their victory.
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Recent attacks in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, attributed to the Pakistani Taliban (TTP), have resulted in civilian casualties and heightened tensions with Afghanistan. The military reports thwarting an attack, with ongoing violence raising concerns over regional stability.
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Afghanistan's Taliban government released three Pakistani soldiers detained during border clashes in October. The release, mediated by Saudi Arabia, aims to ease tensions after months of cross-border fighting and a fragile ceasefire. Relations remain strained, with ongoing accusations and border disruptions.
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Gaza marks Ramadan during ongoing conflict, with over 72,000 Palestinians killed, widespread destruction, and displacement. Despite efforts to bring some festive spirit, residents face severe hardship, cold, and loss, with many mourning loved ones and enduring displacement amid continued violence.
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On February 27, 2026, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif declared open war on Afghanistan following escalating cross-border clashes. Pakistan launched airstrikes on Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia provinces after Afghan forces attacked Pakistani border posts. Both sides report heavy casualties with conflicting figures amid a fragile ceasefire and ongoing accusations over militant support.