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European broadcasters are divided over Israel's participation in Eurovision 2026 amid tensions over Gaza. Several countries threaten to boycott if Israel competes, citing concerns over political interference and Gaza's humanitarian crisis. The EBU plans rule changes to prevent voting manipulation, with a vote on Israel's inclusion imminent.
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Eurovision winner Nemo has returned their 2024 trophy, criticizing Israel's participation in the 2026 contest amid ongoing Gaza conflict. Several countries are boycotting the event, citing concerns over political interference and human rights issues, challenging Eurovision's tradition of neutrality.
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Several countries including Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Iceland are withdrawing from Eurovision 2026 due to Israel's participation, amid ongoing tensions over Gaza. The EBU's decision to allow Israel to compete despite criticism has sparked protests and threats of boycott from multiple broadcasters.
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The UN human rights office is in 'survival mode' due to a $90 million funding shortfall, leading to job cuts and reduced monitoring of violations worldwide. Major donors have decreased contributions amid shifting priorities, impacting the organization's ability to respond to crises, especially in conflict zones like Gaza and Sudan.
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Since Charlie Kirk's assassination in September, figures like Candace Owens have promoted unfounded conspiracy theories involving foreign governments and political organizations. Erika Kirk, Charlie’s widow, publicly condemns these claims, leading to a tense meeting and the cancellation of a planned livestream. The controversy highlights deep divisions within the conservative movement.
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Salih, former Iraqi president, is set to succeed Filippo Grandi as UN High Commissioner for Refugees. The appointment, pending formal approval, comes amid a year of significant funding cuts and rising global displacement. Salih's background and vision aim to reshape the agency's approach to refugee aid.
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The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights faces severe funding cuts after Western donors, including the US, reduced contributions in 2025. This has led to fewer monitoring missions, job cuts, and diminished capacity to address global human rights violations amid mounting crises.
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UN human rights rapporteur Albanese, known for her criticism of Israel, faces condemnation from Germany, France, Italy, and others over alleged remarks calling Israel a 'common enemy of humanity.' Albanese denies making these comments, but her past statements and US sanctions have intensified the controversy. She is scheduled to speak at the Geneva Rights Council next month.
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Ukraine and Russia are holding two-day negotiations in Geneva, focusing on territorial issues and security guarantees, amid ongoing Russian attacks and international pressure. The talks follow recent military escalations and previous rounds in Abu Dhabi, with key demands including Ukraine's territorial integrity and Russia's recognition of annexed regions.
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U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are participating in mediated negotiations with Iran, facilitated by Oman, to resolve their long-standing nuclear dispute. Meanwhile, the U.S. prepares for potential military action, with Iran conducting a military drill in the Strait of Hormuz. The talks focus on nuclear restrictions and sanctions relief, amid heightened regional tensions.
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Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Geneva to prepare for indirect negotiations with the US, mediated by Oman, amid heightened regional tensions and US military build-up. The talks aim to address Iran's nuclear program, with Iran seeking sanctions relief and the US demanding limits on Iran's missile and proxy activities.
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Iran and the US are engaging in indirect negotiations in Geneva to revive their nuclear deal, with Iran emphasizing its refusal to accept zero uranium enrichment and US deploying military assets to the region. Tensions remain high, with Iran conducting military drills and warning of regional war.
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Ukraine regained 201 sq km from Russia between Wednesday and Sunday, aided by a Starlink outage that disrupted Russian communications. Zelensky warns of Russian energy strikes ahead of US-brokered peace negotiations in Geneva, where Ukraine and Russia will discuss territorial demands and broader issues.
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Iran's Revolutionary Guard conducted military drills in the Strait of Hormuz, closing the waterway temporarily amid rising US-Iran tensions. Iran's leader warned of the dangers of US warships, while the US amasses forces nearby. Diplomatic talks are ongoing, but prospects remain uncertain.
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The US has assembled its largest military presence in the Middle East in decades amid rising tensions with Iran. President Trump has threatened military action if nuclear talks fail, with ongoing negotiations scheduled for Thursday. The CIA has launched a covert recruitment campaign targeting Iranians, urging secure communication methods amid regional unrest.
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The US and Iran are set to meet in Geneva for the third round of nuclear negotiations amid heightened US military presence in the Middle East. Tensions escalate as Trump accuses Iran of restarting nuclear and missile programs, while Iran insists its nuclear activities are peaceful. The talks aim to prevent conflict.
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The US Treasury proposes a regulation to block US banks from doing business with MBaer Merchant Bank AG, a small Swiss bank accused of funneling over $100 million for illicit activities linked to Iran and Russia. The move highlights concerns over money laundering and national security risks.
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Iran and the US are engaged in indirect negotiations mediated by Oman, focusing on Iran's nuclear program and sanctions. Talks are described as intense and serious, with Iran proposing flexibility on uranium enrichment and sanctions relief. The US emphasizes missile and regional issues, raising tensions amid fears of escalation.