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Dubai-style chocolate bars, known for their thick texture and exotic fillings like pistachio and tahini, have surged in global popularity since 2021. Major retailers and restaurants worldwide now offer variations, fueling demand and causing a pistachio shortage. The trend reflects a growing appetite for indulgent, textured confections blending luxury and novelty as of late October 2025.
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India has resumed diplomatic ties with Afghanistan by reopening its embassy in Kabul and hosting Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. The visit, the first by a Taliban leader since 2021, aims to strengthen regional cooperation, trade, and stability, despite ongoing international sanctions and regional tensions.
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In October 2025, the UK government faces intense scrutiny after the Crown Prosecution Service dropped espionage charges against two men accused of spying for China. The case collapsed because the government did not provide evidence that China was a national security threat at the time of the alleged offences, a legal requirement under the Official Secrets Act 1911. Parliamentary committees have launched inquiries, and MI5 has expressed frustration over the decision amid ongoing UK-China diplomatic engagement.
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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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In October 2025, former President Trump played a key role in brokering a deal between Israel and Hamas, leading to the release of hostages and a ceasefire. Multiple sources confirm his active involvement, contrasting with current US leadership's limited engagement amid ongoing regional tensions.
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Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon have killed at least two people, including a Hezbollah logistics chief, and targeted infrastructure linked to the group. Despite a ceasefire, Israel continues strikes claiming they prevent Hezbollah's military rebuilding. Lebanon condemns these actions as violations of the ceasefire agreement.
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Recent reports reveal President Trump’s military actions in Portland and Chicago are heavily influenced by television coverage and media narratives. His decisions to send troops and deploy federal forces appear to be driven by media reactions and political considerations, raising questions about the role of TV in national security choices. As court cases and protests continue, the influence of media remains central.
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On October 13-14, 2025, US President Donald Trump secured a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, ending two years of war in Gaza. The deal included the release of 20 surviving hostages by Hamas and nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners by Israel. Trump signed the agreement with regional leaders in Egypt, launching a phased peace plan involving governance reforms and international oversight.
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England became the first European team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, with other teams from Africa, Asia, and Oceania also securing spots. Forty-three teams will qualify through continental tournaments, with two more in intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March. The three host nations qualify automatically.
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The UK has dropped charges against two alleged Chinese spies, citing lack of evidence. The case's end has raised US concerns about intelligence sharing and UK’s stance on China. The trial's collapse questions UK’s approach to Chinese espionage and its impact on diplomatic relations, especially with the US, as the Prime Minister’s government faces scrutiny.
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The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre reports a 50% rise in highly significant cyber incidents over the past year, with nearly half deemed nationally significant. Major firms like Marks & Spencer and Jaguar Land Rover have been targeted, prompting urgent calls for increased cyber resilience across sectors.
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Iran has sentenced two French nationals, Cecile Kohler and Jacques Paris, to prison terms for espionage, amid ongoing negotiations for a prisoner exchange with France. The sentences follow their arrest in 2022 during a tourist trip, with Iran accusing them of spying for France and Israel. France denies the charges and calls their detention arbitrary.
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As of late October 2025, cyberattacks have surged globally, with the UK reporting a 50% rise in significant incidents and costly breaches like Jaguar Land Rover's. Singapore urges international cooperation to rebuild trust and enforce cyber norms amid rising state-sponsored attacks. Meanwhile, the US military accelerates AI and drone integration to enhance decision-making and operational readiness, adapting to environmental and cybersecurity challenges.
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Recent volcanic activity includes a new eruption at Kanlaon in the Philippines, ongoing signs of activity at Iran's Taftan, and multiple eruptions on Indonesia's Flores island. Authorities warn of potential hazards, urging vigilance and monitoring. No casualties reported so far.
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A DHS social media post claiming drug cartels put a bounty on agents was found to be based on a misleading video with a different caption. The incident highlights ongoing tensions over DHS messaging, social media use, and immigration enforcement practices, with some officials and public figures criticizing the department's approach.
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A 28-year-old Norwegian man was sentenced to three years and seven months in prison for espionage. He shared embassy details with Russia and Iran, motivated by geopolitical tensions over Gaza. The case highlights ongoing espionage concerns in Norway, especially near the Arctic border with Russia.
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MI5 confirmed recent operational intervention against a threat linked to China, amid ongoing concerns over espionage, cyber activity, and interference. The agency expressed frustration over the collapse of a high-profile spy trial involving two men accused of passing secrets to Beijing, highlighting the complex UK-China relationship and persistent security challenges.
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On October 24, 2025, the UK Crown Prosecution Service dropped charges against Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, accused of spying for China between 2021 and 2023. The Director of Public Prosecutions cited the government's refusal to confirm China as a national security threat at the time. MI5 Director Ken McCallum affirmed ongoing Chinese espionage threats and recent operational interventions.
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Maj. Gen. Muhammad Abdul Karim al-Ghamari, a senior Houthi military figure sanctioned by the UN, was killed in an Israeli airstrike. The attack occurred amid ongoing Yemen conflict and Gaza ceasefire, with the Houthis vowing to continue their resistance against Israel and other enemies. The death was announced days into the Gaza ceasefire.
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Recent advances in AI-generated videos, notably OpenAI's Sora 2, have produced highly realistic content, including celebrity images and fetish material, raising fears over misinformation, misuse, and regulation gaps. Experts warn these developments could distort truth, with Australia lagging behind in regulation. Incidents include unauthorized celebrity images and niche fetish content.
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French authorities are investigating an alleged plot to target Vladimir Osechkin, founder of Gulagu.net, with four men detained. Osechkin, a Russian exile in France, has faced repeated threats linked to his work exposing abuses in Russian prisons. The investigation highlights concerns over Russian hybrid warfare targeting Europe.
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Jafar Panahi, an acclaimed Iranian filmmaker, has won the Palme d'Or at Cannes for his film 'It Was Just an Accident,' made clandestinely in Iran after his release from prison. The film explores themes of revenge and state violence, reflecting Panahi's ongoing defiance of censorship and political repression.
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On October 18, 2025, the 2015 Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) officially expired amid the reimposition of UN sanctions via the snapback mechanism. Iran declared all deal provisions terminated, suspended cooperation with the IAEA, and rejected sanctions as unjust. Despite ongoing diplomatic rhetoric, nuclear talks remain deadlocked following recent military strikes and mutual accusations.
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Recent reports reveal US and Chinese cyber espionage activities targeting critical infrastructure. The US NSA allegedly exploited vulnerabilities in Chinese timing systems since March 2022, while China accuses the NSA of long-term covert attacks on its National Time Service Center, escalating tensions amid broader geopolitical conflicts.
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Iran has executed a man in Qom for alleged espionage linked to Israel, following his contact with Israeli intelligence in 2023. The execution aligns with recent executions of individuals accused of collaborating with Israel, amid heightened tensions after Israeli strikes on Iran. The case highlights Iran's ongoing shadow war with Israel.
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Satellite images reveal a nearly 2,000-meter runway on Zuqar Island, Yemen, believed to be linked to UAE military expansion. The site enhances surveillance and logistical capabilities in the Red Sea region amid ongoing tensions involving Houthi rebels, regional powers, and international shipping routes. The purpose and potential use remain unclear.
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Yemen remains deeply affected by the Gaza war, with the Houthis continuing attacks on Israel and Israel targeting Yemen. Regional dynamics are shifting as Yemen's secessionist movements and alliances with Israel and the UAE complicate the conflict's landscape. Diplomatic efforts face significant hurdles.
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The UN sanctions reimposed on Iran this month deepen economic hardship amid failed negotiations with Western powers. Iran rejects the deal, citing fears of capitulation, while its leadership emphasizes military readiness and nationalist pride. The economy suffers from inflation, currency devaluation, and public discontent.
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Former President Trump claims direct involvement in Israel's attacks on Hezbollah and discusses the recent Gaza ceasefire. He emphasizes the importance of regional respect for the US presidency and criticizes current policies, including Iran's nuclear progress and Israeli annexation plans, while asserting his influence on Middle East diplomacy.
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A new report reveals North Korea's sophisticated cyber operations, including hacking, cryptocurrency theft, and employment of IT workers abroad to fund nuclear and missile programs. The 138-page document highlights the growing threat posed by North Korea’s cyber capabilities, supported by allies in Russia and China, and underscores the global security challenge.
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Daylight saving time ends this weekend in many regions, with clocks set back an hour. New Stanford research supports adopting permanent standard time, citing health benefits linked to circadian rhythm alignment. The change impacts sleep, health, and international coordination, especially between Europe, North America, and Israel.
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Ayandeh Bank, founded in 2012 with 270 branches, has been shut down due to massive debts totaling over $5 billion. The assets have been transferred to Melli Bank, with authorities assuring depositors will recover their savings. The move reflects ongoing financial instability in Iran's banking sector.
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Iran has demanded a $170 million fine from the owner of the MSC Aries, a cargo ship seized in Gulf waters in April 2024. Iran accuses the ship's owner of ties to Israel and terrorism financing. The case is before Iranian courts, with some crew members later released. The seizure occurred amid heightened tensions following Iran's first direct attack on Israel.
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As of early November 2025, Ukrainian forces continue to defend the eastern city of Pokrovsk against a prolonged Russian offensive. Russia employs pincer movements aiming to encircle the city, but Ukraine denies full encirclement and reports ongoing counterattacks, including special forces operations. Meanwhile, Russia intensifies missile and drone strikes targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, worsening civilian hardships ahead of winter.
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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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Iran has intensified repression in 2025, with over 21,000 arrests, increased executions, and targeting of minorities and journalists following a 12-day war with Israel in June. Human rights groups report systematic abuses, including crackdowns on civil society and ethnic minorities.
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The Bank of England's upcoming rate decision is highly uncertain, with analysts split on whether to cut or hold at 4.0%. Recent data shows inflation easing, but external factors and political signals complicate the decision. The outcome will influence borrowing costs and economic outlook.
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Five months after a missile attack, Soroka hospital in Beersheba is set to receive significant funding for reconstruction, including a new armored building. The effort is supported by government, private donors, and international aid, amid ongoing regional tensions and recent military conflicts.
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German authorities detained an Afghan suspect linked to a planned attack on Jewish targets in Berlin. The suspect, in contact with a Danish national for Iranian intelligence, promised weapons for an attack. Searches uncovered items for explosives. The arrest follows increased security measures amid regional tensions.
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On November 6, 2025, Somali pirates attacked and seized the Malta-flagged tanker Hellas Aphrodite in the Indian Ocean, over 1,000 km off Somalia’s coast. The 24 crew members locked themselves safely in the ship’s citadel. The pirates, armed with machine guns and RPGs, reportedly operate from a hijacked Iranian fishing boat. EU naval forces are responding amid rising piracy linked to regional instability.
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On November 18, 2025, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will visit the White House to meet President Donald Trump. The visit aims to advance a U.S.-Saudi defense pact, discuss arms sales including F-35 jets, and explore civilian nuclear cooperation. Normalization of ties with Israel remains contingent on progress toward Palestinian statehood, with Saudi Arabia emphasizing a credible roadmap before formalizing relations.
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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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French President Macron announced the release of Cecile Kohler and Jacques Paris, detained in Iran since 2022 on espionage charges. They are now en route to the French embassy in Tehran, with talks ongoing for their return to France. The release marks a significant diplomatic development amid tense Iran-West relations.
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Cathay Pacific announced it will buy back all of Qatar Airways' 9.6% stake, ending an eight-year partnership. The move, valued at HK$6.96 billion, aims to strengthen Hong Kong's aviation hub. The sale is pending shareholder approval, with Cathay's shares rising 4.2% following the announcement.
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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 mid-November 2025, Iran is enduring its worst drought in six decades, with Tehran's rainfall at a century low. Reservoirs supplying the capital and other major cities are critically depleted, prompting government plans for water rationing and possible evacuation if rain does not arrive soon. The crisis is compounded by mismanagement, climate change, 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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Israeli military conducted multiple strikes in southeastern Lebanon, killing three people and wounding several others. The attacks targeted alleged Hezbollah arms smugglers and infrastructure, raising international concern amid ongoing tensions despite a ceasefire. The EU called for restraint and respect for the ceasefire.
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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.