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Recent antisemitic attacks in Australia, including a firebombing at the Adass Israel synagogue in Melbourne, have prompted national outrage and calls for unity. Leaders from various communities are urging for peace amid fears of escalating tensions, particularly following the Israel-Hamas conflict that began in October 2023.
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Australia has signed a significant treaty with Nauru, granting Canberra veto power over Nauru's security and infrastructure agreements with third parties, particularly China. In exchange, Australia will provide AU$140 million in support over five years, enhancing Nauru's security and economic stability.
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California's Attorney General Rob Bonta has proposed legislation requiring warning labels on social media platforms to protect children from mental health risks. The bill has garnered bipartisan support but faces opposition from industry officials citing First Amendment concerns. This follows similar actions in Australia, which recently banned social media access for users under 16.
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Recent antisemitic incidents in Australia, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne, have alarmed Jewish leaders. The attacks include graffiti and arson, prompting government condemnation and the establishment of a federal task force to address rising hate crimes against the Jewish community.
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As the situation in northeast Syria deteriorates, families of Australian and British citizens detained in Kurdish-controlled camps urge their governments to repatriate them. The fall of Assad's regime raises concerns about the safety of these individuals, including Shamima Begum, amid escalating violence from Turkish-backed forces.
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On December 12, 2024, Australia supported a UN resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. The resolution passed with overwhelming support, reflecting a significant shift in international sentiment regarding the ongoing conflict.
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Australia has committed A$600 million over ten years to establish a rugby league team in Papua New Guinea, set to join the National Rugby League in 2028. The deal also emphasizes security ties, prioritizing Australia over China, amid growing geopolitical tensions in the Pacific.
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Australia has introduced a new 'news bargaining incentive' requiring tech companies like Meta and Google to pay for news content or face higher taxes. This follows Meta's decision not to renew existing deals with Australian publishers, raising concerns about the future of journalism funding in the country.
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Five members of the Bali Nine drug smuggling ring have returned to Australia after serving 19 years in Indonesian prisons. The repatriation was facilitated by a deal between the Australian and Indonesian governments, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressing gratitude for Indonesia's cooperation on humanitarian grounds.
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Victoria's Premier Jacinta Allan has proposed new laws to combat antisemitism following recent attacks on Jewish places of worship. The legislation aims to establish safe zones around religious sites and restrict certain protest activities. The laws will be voted on early next year, reflecting growing concerns over antisemitic incidents in the state.
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A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck Vanuatu on December 17, 2024, causing significant destruction in Port Vila. The death toll has reached at least 14, with over 200 injured. Rescue operations are underway, and the Australian government is repatriating citizens while providing humanitarian assistance.
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The UK government is under scrutiny for its climate targets as it considers extending subsidies for Drax power plant's carbon capture project. Meanwhile, Australia has approved multiple coal mine expansions, raising concerns about its commitment to climate leadership ahead of hosting COP31 in 2026.
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Australia has announced a $118 million deal to enhance the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, aiming to reduce reliance on external support. This move is part of a broader strategy to counter China's influence in the Pacific, following a controversial security pact between the Solomon Islands and China in 2022.
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Five members of the Bali Nine drug smuggling ring have returned to Australia after nearly two decades in Indonesian prison. Their repatriation follows a deal between the Australian and Indonesian governments, allowing them to reintegrate into society after serving life sentences for heroin trafficking.
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As Hanukkah begins on December 25, 2024, Jewish communities worldwide gather to celebrate the festival of lights. This year's observance is marked by a rise in antisemitism and ongoing conflict in Israel, prompting leaders to emphasize resilience and hope.
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A car attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, on December 20, 2024, resulted in five deaths, including a child, and over 200 injuries. The suspect, a Saudi doctor, has been charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder. Investigations are ongoing regarding his motives and background.
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On Christmas Day 2024, President-elect Donald Trump and outgoing President Joe Biden delivered starkly different holiday messages. Trump used the occasion to address political grievances, while Biden focused on unity and compassion. Their contrasting tones reflect the heightened political polarization in the U.S. following the recent election.
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The Sydney to Hobart yacht race faced tragedy as two sailors died in separate incidents during severe weather conditions. Defending champion LawConnect won the race but delayed celebrations out of respect for the deceased. The fatalities mark the first in the race since 1998, prompting investigations into safety protocols.