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On November 21, 2024, Russia launched the Oreshnik missile at Dnipro, Ukraine, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. President Putin claimed the missile, capable of Mach 10 speeds, is a response to Ukraine's use of Western-supplied missiles. This development raises concerns about the potential for further military escalation.
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Following Mozambique's presidential election on October 9, protests against alleged electoral fraud have escalated. Opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane has called for further demonstrations, while the government has deployed military forces to maintain order. Reports indicate at least 20 deaths and numerous injuries due to police violence during the unrest, raising concerns over human rights violations.
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Chinese human rights lawyers Yu Wensheng and Xu Zhiyong are facing severe sentences for their activism. Yu received three years' detention, while Xu's health deteriorates amid a hunger strike. International calls for their release grow, highlighting ongoing human rights abuses in China and beyond.
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On October 28, 2024, Israel's Knesset passed two laws restricting the operations of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in Israel and the Palestinian territories. The legislation, which takes effect in 90 days, has drawn international condemnation and raises concerns about worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
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On October 29, 2024, Israel's Knesset passed legislation banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from operating within its territory. This decision, which has drawn international condemnation, threatens humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza and the West Bank amid ongoing conflict.
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In Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered the release of minors charged with treason after their shocking courtroom appearance sparked national outrage. The boys, aged 14 to 17, faced severe mistreatment while detained, highlighting ongoing human rights concerns in the country amidst a worsening economic crisis.
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A female student at Tehran's Islamic Azad University stripped to her underwear in protest against harassment for not wearing a hijab. Following her arrest, human rights groups have called for her immediate release, reigniting discussions on women's rights in Iran, particularly after the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022.
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The COP29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, runs from November 11-22, 2024, focusing on financial commitments to combat climate change. Notably absent are leaders from major economies, raising concerns about the summit's effectiveness. The backdrop includes the recent election of Donald Trump, a climate skeptic, and ongoing global crises.
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A young Iranian woman was arrested after protesting Iran's strict dress code by stripping to her underwear at a university. Human rights groups express concern over her treatment, fearing she may be confined to a psychiatric institution, a tactic used by authorities to suppress dissent.
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As the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah intensifies, over 1.2 million people have been displaced in Lebanon, with many fleeing to Syria. The agricultural sector faces severe damage, threatening livelihoods and food security. Humanitarian needs are escalating amid ongoing airstrikes and economic instability.
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Gabonese voters overwhelmingly approved a new constitution in a referendum, extending presidential terms to seven years and abolishing the prime minister position. This vote is a significant step towards civilian governance following the military coup in 2023 that ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba. The turnout was approximately 53.5%.
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Amnesty International has reported that French-made Galix defense systems are being used by Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in violation of a UN arms embargo. The technology, mounted on UAE-manufactured vehicles, raises concerns about France's arms exports and their role in the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
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Iran has announced plans to open a clinic aimed at providing 'scientific and psychological treatment' for women who defy mandatory hijab laws. The initiative has sparked outrage among human rights advocates, who view it as a chilling attempt to enforce conformity and suppress female autonomy in the wake of ongoing protests.
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The Texas Supreme Court ruled against a legislative subpoena aimed at delaying Robert Roberson's execution, which has raised concerns over the use of discredited medical evidence in his case. Meanwhile, Melissa Lucio's conviction is recommended for overturning due to new evidence of innocence. Both cases highlight ongoing debates about the death penalty in Texas.
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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, marking the first meeting between a British leader and Xi since 2018. Starmer aimed to mend UK-China relations while addressing human rights concerns, including the case of detained activist Jimmy Lai.
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On November 19, Ukraine launched ATACMS missiles into Russia's Bryansk region, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. This follows the U.S. decision to allow such strikes, coinciding with Russia's revised nuclear doctrine, which lowers the threshold for nuclear retaliation against conventional attacks supported by nuclear powers.
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Former Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his nomination for attorney general after just eight days, marking one of the shortest nomination periods in U.S. history. His candidacy faced backlash due to ongoing ethics investigations and a lack of support from Senate Republicans, highlighting the chaotic nature of Trump's incoming administration.
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The Biden administration has authorized the supply of nonpersistent antipersonnel landmines to Ukraine, aimed at countering Russian advances. This decision comes amid concerns over future U.S. support under President-elect Donald Trump, who has criticized aid to Ukraine.