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On December 5, 2025, at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC, FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarded US President Donald Trump the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, recognizing his efforts to promote peace and unity globally. The ceremony coincided with the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw, hosted across the US, Mexico, and Canada. The prize, a departure from FIFA's traditional sports focus, sparked controversy due to Infantino's close ties with Trump and ongoing political tensions.
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On December 5, 2025, the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw will take place at Washington's Kennedy Center, attended by US President Donald Trump. The expanded 48-team tournament, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, will feature 12 groups of four teams. Scotland, having qualified after 28 years, awaits its group opponents and fixture details, with the tournament running June 11 to July 19, 2026.
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As of November 2025, Iran's nuclear program remains under intense international scrutiny following a 12-day war with Israel in June, during which the US joined strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. The IAEA has conducted inspections but lacks access to key facilities like Fordow and Natanz. Iran vows to rebuild its nuclear infrastructure stronger, rejects direct US talks, and insists its program is peaceful despite Western concerns and renewed sanctions.
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The Indonesia Hospital in Gaza, damaged during Israeli military operations since October 2023, is seeking donations for reconstruction. MER-C Indonesia aims to restore healthcare services amid ongoing conflict, with recent funding and volunteer efforts highlighting international support for Palestinian medical infrastructure.
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On November 18, 2025, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met President Donald Trump at the White House to advance a U.S.-Saudi defense pact, including arms sales like F-35 jets, and discuss economic cooperation. Saudi Arabia remains firm that normalization with Israel hinges on a credible, time-bound pathway to Palestinian statehood. Meanwhile, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia are restoring commercial ties after years of strain.
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Iran conducted its first cloud seeding flight in the Urmia Lake basin this water year, aiming to address severe drought and revive Iran's largest lake, which has largely dried out. Operations will expand to other provinces amid ongoing water shortages and climate challenges.
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On November 7, 2025, Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) agreed to a US- and Arab-led proposal for a three-month humanitarian ceasefire amid a brutal two-year conflict with the Sudanese army. The RSF's acceptance follows its recent capture of El-Fasher, Darfur's last army stronghold, amid reports of mass killings and atrocities. The Sudanese army has yet to respond to the truce offer.
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As of November 2025, over 1,400 Africans from 36 countries, including Kenya and South Africa, have been recruited by Russia to fight in Ukraine under false pretenses. Many are deceived with promises of jobs, coerced into signing military contracts, and sent to deadly frontline assaults. South Africa is investigating 17 citizens trapped in Ukraine, while Ukraine urges recruits to desert and seek prisoner-of-war status.
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As of November 2025, Iran is enduring its worst drought in six decades, with Tehran experiencing its lowest rainfall in a century. Reservoirs supplying Tehran and other major cities are critically depleted, prompting government plans for water rationing and warnings of possible evacuation if rain does not arrive soon. The crisis stems from climate change, mismanagement, and infrastructure damage.
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Iran dismisses US and Israeli accusations of plotting to assassinate Israel's ambassador in Mexico, calling it a 'big lie.' US officials allege the plot was initiated by Iran's Quds Force in late 2024 and disrupted this year, involving operatives from Iran's embassy in Venezuela. Mexico and Iran deny involvement amid heightened tensions.
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Diplomatic efforts to revive Iran's nuclear agreement have failed following recent military clashes between Iran and Israel. Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful, while the U.S., Israel, and Europe accuse Tehran of seeking nuclear weapons. Talks have been suspended since June after Iran's response to U.S. and Israeli concerns.
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Iran has transferred nearly $1 billion to Hezbollah in 2025, defying Western sanctions. US officials see this as a key to reducing Iranian influence in Lebanon and the region. Washington is increasing diplomatic and financial pressure to push for Hezbollah disarmament amid ongoing regional tensions.
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Lebanese authorities are implementing new measures to combat money laundering and terrorist financing, following US sanctions targeting Hezbollah operatives involved in transferring over $1 billion from Iran. The move aims to improve Lebanon's compliance with international standards and remove it from the FATF grey list, amid ongoing US efforts to disarm Hezbollah and curb its funding.
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Iran is working to restore its missile stocks after June's conflict with Israel, aiming to fire 2,000 missiles simultaneously in future confrontations. Israel monitors these developments closely, with officials warning of a potential longer and more aggressive conflict. Experts believe another war is only a matter of time.
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The US has intensified efforts to pressure Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah and curb its funding, amid ongoing clashes with Israel and concerns over Iran-backed financial flows. US officials visited Lebanon and transit countries, emphasizing the need for stronger enforcement against illicit funds, while Lebanon's government claims progress in disarmament talks.
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Israeli forces continue demolitions and conduct strikes in Gaza, despite a ceasefire. Palestinian casualties rise, rescue efforts recover bodies, and aid access remains restricted. Israel and US discuss Hamas fighters' deportation, while Israeli legislation targets media and prisoners. The region remains volatile.
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An 18-year-old IDF soldier, Cpl. Ermias Bahata, collapsed and died during training in southern Israel. Suspected to be an allergic reaction, his death is under investigation. This rare incident follows a previous IDF allergy-related death in 2015.
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In Iran, visible protests against mandatory hijab laws have increased, especially in Tehran, where women are increasingly forgoing head coverings. Authorities are responding with calls for social control, citing foreign influence and social anomalies, amid ongoing tensions following protests sparked by Mahsa Amini's death in 2022.
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As of November 21, 2025, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) demands Iran provide full access to nuclear sites damaged in June's Israel-US strikes. Iran rejects cooperation on bombed sites, citing security risks and political provocations. The IAEA warns Iran's enriched uranium stockpile, near weapons-grade, remains unverified, raising global nonproliferation concerns amid stalled diplomacy and renewed sanctions.
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Lindsay and Craig Foreman, British nationals from East Sussex, are detained in Iran on espionage charges. They are reportedly on hunger strike and are held in Tehran’s Evin Prison. The UK government is providing consular support amid diplomatic stalemate, with family calling for more decisive action.
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Iraq's November 2025 parliamentary elections resulted in no clear majority, with Prime Minister al-Sudani's coalition leading but requiring extensive coalition-building. Voter turnout was 56.11%, with regional variations. Political factions are now negotiating to form a government amid ongoing fragmentation and regional influences.
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Iran's government is relaxing visible social restrictions amid protests, but secretly intensifies political repression. Activists report harassment, arrests, and increased executions, as the regime faces economic and regional crises. The strategy aims to soothe public opinion while suppressing dissent.
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Flooding in Gaza has damaged homes and displaced families, with aid efforts hampered by restrictions. UN agencies warn of a worsening humanitarian crisis as winter approaches, with many Palestinians lacking shelter, food, and medical supplies despite ceasefire agreements.
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The US reaffirmed plans to sell up to 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia amid regional tensions and concerns over technology security. The deal, announced during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to Washington, raises questions about regional military balance and Israel's qualitative military edge.
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Iran's Revolutionary Guard confiscated the Talara, a tanker carrying petrochemicals, near the UAE. The vessel was taken to Iranian waters following a court order, amid ongoing tensions over maritime security and regional conflicts. The incident marks Iran's first seizure in the Strait of Hormuz in over a year.
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On November 13, 2015, ISIL terrorists carried out coordinated attacks in Paris, killing 130 people. The tenth anniversary was marked with memorials and reflections on the trauma, with survivors sharing ongoing struggles. New investigations reveal allegations of war-time human safaris in Bosnia, adding to the story's dark history.
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The Israel Defense Forces are rethinking their military strategy amid rapid technological advances, including autonomous systems and digital transformation. Recent exercises test new command systems and multi-domain operations, reflecting a broader move toward faster, smarter warfare that integrates AI, drones, and networked units to prepare for future conflicts.
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Marjorie Taylor Greene announced her resignation from Congress, citing her desire to avoid a Trump-backed primary and potential impeachment battles. The move follows her feud with Trump and reflects ongoing political shifts within the Republican Party ahead of next year's elections.
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Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, once a US-designated terrorist, has visited Washington, marking a historic shift. He met with Trump, discussed anti-ISIS cooperation, sanctions relief, and regional stability. Syria's entry into the US-led coalition signals a major change in US-Syria relations amid ongoing regional tensions.
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As of November 24, 2025, Iran is pushing for a resumption of stalled nuclear negotiations with the U.S., using Saudi Arabia as a mediator amid fears of renewed Israeli strikes and economic strain. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is visiting France to urge compliance with IAEA obligations, while Tehran denies undeclared enrichment and insists on its right to peaceful nuclear energy.
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Israeli forces fired on UNIFIL peacekeepers in southern Lebanon, claiming poor weather caused misidentification. The incident, involving tank fire near Lebanese territory, was deemed a serious violation of UN Security Council resolution 1701. No injuries were reported, but tensions remain high amid ongoing Israeli strikes and Lebanese sovereignty concerns.
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In Iran, women face strict restrictions on public performances, but 42-year-old Faryoussefi has broken barriers by conducting an orchestra. Her performance signals a potential shift in social openness amid ongoing protests and government tensions. The event was widely attended and celebrated as a historic moment for women's emancipation.
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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with former President Trump, highlighting enduring strategic interests despite past controversies. The meeting signals continued close ties, with MBS positioning himself as a regional peacemaker and reformer, amid ongoing regional conflicts and economic challenges.
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The Dubai Air Show features major aircraft deals, military sales, and plans for airport expansion. Emirates and FlyDubai report record profits, while Russia showcases arms despite sanctions. Lebanon announces new airline and airport upgrades amid regional tensions.
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A UNCTAD report estimates Gaza's reconstruction will cost over $70 billion and take decades, citing war and restrictions that have caused an unprecedented economic collapse. Israeli military actions continue despite a ceasefire, with ongoing violations and casualties. The West Bank also faces severe downturns.
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Iran released the Marshall Islands-flagged tanker Talara after seizing it on November 16 near the Strait of Hormuz. All 21 crew members are safe, and Iran cited cargo violations as the reason for the seizure. The vessel was detained for about three days amid regional tensions.
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President Trump hosted Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House, featuring a lavish welcome and discussions on military, economic, and regional issues. The visit included plans for significant Saudi investments in the US, sale of F-35 jets, and efforts to normalize relations with Israel, amid ongoing concerns over human rights and regional stability.
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The US supports a plan to create 'safe communities' in Gaza, dividing the territory into Israeli-controlled zones and others. Construction of compounds for displaced Palestinians is underway, but details on funding, infrastructure, and governance remain uncertain amid ongoing conflict and political disagreements.
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Former US spy Jonathan Pollard met with US Ambassador Mike Huckabee in July at the US Embassy in Jerusalem. The meeting, kept off official schedules, was confirmed by Pollard and has sparked controversy, with US officials alarmed by the breach and questions about approval. Pollard criticized US officials' handling of Middle East peace efforts and accused some of working against Israeli interests.
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CAIR, a major Muslim civil rights group, filed a lawsuit against Texas Governor Abbott after he labeled it a 'terrorist organization' and a 'criminal group.' The lawsuit argues the move violates the US Constitution and Texas law, with CAIR asserting the designation is baseless and inflammatory.
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The IAEA has demanded Iran cooperate fully on nuclear inspections, citing concerns over uranium stockpiles and access to sites. Iran responded by threatening further actions, citing recent strikes and sanctions. Tensions escalate amid ongoing disputes over nuclear compliance and regional security.
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Recent reports show a significant increase in antisemitic incidents worldwide, especially in Australia, Germany, and Czechia, driven by Middle East conflicts and political tensions. Incidents include violence, vandalism, and online hate, with foreign influence operations exposing foreign origins of some anti-Israel accounts. Authorities are calling for stronger measures.
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A wildfire in Iran's Hyrcanian forests, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reignited on November 15 due to drought and suspected illegal activity. Iran has requested international firefighting assistance, including from Turkey and potentially Russia, as efforts continue to contain the blaze threatening biodiversity and ancient ecosystems.
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Multiple online threats target Israeli academics and defense personnel, with websites offering rewards for violence. Israel's security agencies suspect Iran's involvement. The threats follow recent escalation in anti-Israel rhetoric and violence, prompting urgent security responses and warnings to academics.
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Hezbollah buried commander Haytham Tabatabai in Beirut amid protests and Israeli drone activity. The group vows to respond to Israel’s recent targeted killing, raising fears of escalation. The funeral highlights ongoing tensions following Israel’s strike and Hezbollah’s vow to defend its weapons and land.
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Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi will meet with French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot in Paris this week to urge Iran to resume cooperation with the IAEA amid ongoing tensions over nuclear inspections. The meeting follows increased sanctions and Iran's recent suspension of IAEA cooperation after a war with Israel. Iran emphasizes regional shifts and rejects US conditions for talks.
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The UN has started the process to select its next secretary-general, with nominations open until mid-2026. Candidates include Rafael Grossi, Michelle Bachelet, and Rebeca Grynspan. The process emphasizes regional diversity and gender equality, with the final appointment expected in early 2027.
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On Nov 27, a drone strike targeted the Khor Mor gas field in Iraq's Kurdistan region, operated by UAE's Dana Gas, causing a major fire and halting gas supplies that power over 80% of the region's electricity. The attack led to widespread power outages and prompted a joint Iraqi-Kurdish investigation. Operations resumed by Nov 30 after an agreement to restore supplies.
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Australia has officially designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a state sponsor of terrorism, citing links to arson attacks targeting Jewish sites in 2024. Iran condemned the move as unjustified, escalating diplomatic tensions. The decision follows Australian intelligence findings and recent expulsions of Iranian diplomats, marking a significant shift in regional security dynamics.
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Israeli authorities have arrested a man for spying for Iran, amid increased Iranian recruitment efforts. Iran is also funneling money to Hezbollah in Lebanon through covert channels, while Israeli cities are warning residents about Iranian recruitment texts. These developments highlight escalating regional tensions and covert operations.