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On March 5, 2026, Azerbaijan accused Iran of launching drone attacks on its Nakhchivan exclave, damaging an airport and a school, and injuring two civilians. Azerbaijan condemned the strikes as violations of international law and prepared retaliatory measures. Iran denied targeting Azerbaijan. The incident escalates regional tensions amid ongoing conflicts involving Israel, the US, and Iran.
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US officials aim to announce a second phase of the Gaza peace plan by late December, involving a multinational stabilization force, Palestinian technocratic governance, and Hamas disarmament. Key meetings between Netanyahu and Trump are scheduled for late December, amid ongoing regional tensions and military operations.
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Efforts to implement the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire are underway amid ongoing violations and a deepening humanitarian crisis. Key issues include disarmament, troop withdrawal, and international peacekeeping, with negotiations involving Israel, Hamas, the US, and other nations. The situation remains fragile as aid access and security arrangements are debated.
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The US plans to lead a new International Stabilization Force in Gaza, with a two-star general appointed as commander, as part of ongoing efforts to oversee postwar governance and disarmament. The announcement is expected early next year, amid negotiations with regional actors and Israel.
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Despite a ceasefire since October 10, Israeli strikes continue in Gaza, with ongoing disputes over disarmament and troop withdrawals. The US plans to deploy a non-combat international force to oversee the next phase, but disagreements over mandates and troop contributions persist amid ongoing violence and political tensions.
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The US is actively seeking international support for a multinational force to oversee Gaza's security, with plans for troop contributions from around 70 countries. The effort aims to implement a phased peace plan, including disarmament and governance reforms, amid ongoing tensions and slow progress in the region.
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Since the Gaza ceasefire began in October 2025, violations by Israel continue, threatening the fragile peace. Mediation efforts by the US, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey focus on advancing the second phase, including Israeli withdrawal and deployment of an international stabilization force. Humanitarian conditions worsen amid ongoing violence and storms.
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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 vessel in Finland's EEZ damaged a critical undersea cable connecting Finland and Estonia. The ship, flagged in St. Vincent, was detained with its crew from Russia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan. Authorities investigate whether the damage was deliberate amid broader regional tensions.
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President Trump repeatedly referred to Greenland as 'Iceland' during a speech at the World Economic Forum, confusing the two territories. He also called Greenland a 'piece of ice' and discussed his interest in acquiring the territory, sparking criticism and protests from Greenlanders and others.
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Former President Trump announced the creation of a new Board of Peace, aiming to oversee a 20-point plan for Gaza and broader conflicts. He claims the board may replace the UN's role, with initial focus on disarming Hamas and stabilizing Gaza. Several countries, including Russia, have been invited to join.
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Travelers increasingly rely on mobile apps for check-in, reservations, and line-skipping at destinations like Disney World, driven by pandemic-era contactless preferences. Meanwhile, microvacations and outdoor adventures outside Las Vegas highlight evolving leisure trends, emphasizing health, efficiency, and unique experiences today.
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Following a decline in vaccination rates, the UK has lost its WHO measles elimination status. Experts warn of major outbreaks, with projections of nearly 400,000 cases and 480 deaths over 20 years. Vaccination coverage remains below the 95% herd immunity threshold, risking further spread.
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U.S. Vice President JD Vance and his family watched the women's hockey team win at the Milan Winter Olympics. They faced boos at the opening ceremony, reflecting mixed U.S. public opinion amid broader political tensions. Vance's trip also includes diplomatic efforts in Armenia and Azerbaijan.
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Armenia and the US signed a multibillion-dollar nuclear energy agreement, marking a shift from reliance on Russia. US Vice President Vance's visit also focused on regional peace and infrastructure projects, including a new transit corridor connecting Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey. The deal aims to diversify Armenia's energy sources amid regional tensions.
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U.S. Vice President Vance visited the Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan, describing it as an honor to victims. An initial social media post calling it a 'genocide' was deleted after staff error. The incident highlights sensitivities around the term and U.S.-Turkey-Armenia relations.
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The House rejected the bipartisan ROTOR Act, which aimed to improve aircraft collision prevention through mandatory GPS-based systems. The bill, supported by the Senate and families of crash victims, was blocked by concerns over costs, military security, and Pentagon opposition. The debate highlights systemic safety gaps in U.S. aviation.
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Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict escalated as Vardanyan, a key figure in Nagorno-Karabakh, was convicted on 19 charges including war crimes and terrorism. He was sentenced after a closed-door trial, amid regional tensions and mass Armenian displacement following Azerbaijan's recent military offensive.
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Immigration agents entered Columbia University housing without a warrant, detaining Azerbaijani student Ellie Aghayeva. The operation involved misrepresenting themselves as police, raising concerns about enforcement tactics on campuses. The incident has prompted protests, political criticism, and questions about federal procedures.
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The US and Israel launched military strikes against Iran, prompting regional retaliation. Turkey calls for diplomacy, condemning the attacks as illegal. Iran retaliates with missile and drone strikes, intensifying regional instability and raising concerns over energy supplies and international law.