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Two months after a US-backed ceasefire, Israel has violated it over 500 times, killing over 356 Palestinians and causing Gaza's death toll to exceed 70,000. Despite claims of peace, Israel continues military operations, destruction, and restrictions, with international protests demanding an end to the ongoing violence.
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Israeli forces launched a series of military operations across the West Bank, including Tubas, Jenin, and Hebron, targeting Palestinian militants amid rising violence since October 2023. Multiple casualties, arrests, and settler attacks have been reported today, reflecting ongoing tensions and military activity.
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A UN Security Council delegation visited Damascus ahead of the anniversary of Assad's fall, meeting with officials and civil society to discuss political transition, justice, and security. The visit underscores ongoing efforts to reintegrate Syria into the international community amid recent sectarian tensions and violence.
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Heavy rains and storms have damaged over 22,000 tents in Gaza, destroying shelters and worsening conditions for more than 1.5 million displaced Palestinians amid ongoing Israeli restrictions and conflict. Aid efforts are hampered, and winter risks threaten further deterioration of living conditions.
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As of December 4, 2025, Gaza remains devastated after two years of war with Israel, with over 70,000 Palestinians killed and much of the territory reduced to rubble. A fragile ceasefire has allowed rare moments of hope, such as a mass wedding of 54 couples. International efforts focus on stabilizing Gaza, but challenges persist over foreign control, Hamas's resilience, and the humanitarian crisis.
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Israeli forces intensified strikes in Gaza, violating the ceasefire with ongoing shelling and ground operations. Palestinian casualties and destruction continue, while Israel reports ongoing violations and military activity. Hezbollah mourns an assassinated commander in Lebanon, raising fears of broader conflict. The situation remains volatile as fighting persists.
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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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Several European broadcasters, including Spain, Ireland, and the Netherlands, announced they will boycott Eurovision 2026 if Israel participates, citing concerns over Gaza's humanitarian crisis and political interference. The EBU plans rule changes to address voting manipulation, but a vote on Israel's inclusion is imminent.
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Pope Leo XIV arrived in Lebanon and Turkey on Nov 27 for his first trip as pope, focusing on peace, Christian unity, and interfaith dialogue amid regional tensions. He visited key religious sites, called for political unity, and emphasized Lebanon's role as a model of coexistence, marking the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea.
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On November 24, 2025, the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) permanently ceased operations after delivering over 187 million meals during a six-month emergency mission in Gaza. Created to bypass UN aid amid an Israeli blockade, GHF faced criticism for deadly violence near its distribution sites. Its aid model will now be adopted by a US-led coordination center.
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The Biden administration is moving to designate chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon as foreign terrorist organizations, citing their support for violence and destabilization. The move follows regional crackdowns and regional tensions, with the process including reports from US agencies and potential legal challenges.
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Since the ceasefire began on October 10, 2025, violence persists in Gaza, with Israeli violations and Palestinian casualties rising. Efforts by US and Egyptian mediators face obstacles, especially over Hamas disarmament. Humanitarian conditions worsen as aid access remains limited and heavy rains cause flooding and displacement.
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Children in Gaza are suffering severe psychological and developmental impacts due to ongoing conflict and infrastructure destruction. Thousands with autism face regressions, while many children require urgent mental health support amid restricted aid and continued violence. UN and local efforts aim to address these crises.
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Recent updates confirm that the remains of two hostages, Israeli police officer Ran Gvili and Thai national Sudthisak Rinthalak, are still in Gaza. Despite ongoing searches and negotiations facilitated by the Red Cross, Hamas has not officially announced plans to return any hostages or remains, amid complex military and diplomatic efforts. The situation remains tense as Israel and Gaza continue negotiations under a fragile ceasefire, with efforts focused on recovering all bodies and hostages.
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Turkey has begun constructing its TF-2000 naval air defense destroyer, part of the Steel Dome multi-layered system, and signed a deal to export a light corvette to Romania. The country is also developing its domestic missile and radar systems amid regional tensions.
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The UK High Court is examining whether the government’s ban on Palestine Action, proscribed in July for protests linked to Gaza, infringes on free speech. Over 2,300 arrests have occurred since the ban, which criminalizes support for the group with sentences up to 14 years. The case continues today.
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Yasser Abu Shabab, a Bedouin leader in Gaza, died from wounds after a family quarrel, complicating efforts to disarm Hamas. Israeli forces report killing over 40 Hamas militants in Rafah, where fighters remain trapped in tunnels. Mediation efforts for safe passage are ongoing amid a fragile ceasefire.
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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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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.
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On November 28-29, 2025, Israeli forces conducted a dawn raid in the Syrian village of Beit Jinn near the Golan Heights, detaining two suspected Islamist militants. The operation led to clashes that killed at least 13 Syrians, including women and children, and wounded six Israeli soldiers. Israel responded with airstrikes, and the incident has escalated tensions amid ongoing Israeli military activity in southern Syria.
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Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem stated the group retains the right to respond to Israel's killing of top commander Haytham Ali Tabatabai, warning of potential renewed conflict. Qassem called for Lebanon to prepare a defense plan amid ongoing tensions and Israeli strikes, while expressing hope for peace during Pope Leo's visit.
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Since the ceasefire ending the 2024 Israel-Hezbollah war, Lebanon's army has increased its border deployment to nearly 10,000 troops, took journalists on a tour of former Hezbollah sites, and is managing unexploded ordnance. Israel continues airstrikes, claiming Hezbollah is rebuilding capabilities.
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Since the ceasefire began on October 10, Israeli forces have repeatedly violated it, resulting in over 70,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2023. Despite ongoing attacks, Israel continues military operations in Gaza, with reports of new strikes, tunnel fighting, and violations of international agreements. Egypt trains Palestinian police for Gaza security.
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Israel has conducted strikes in southern Lebanon targeting Hezbollah weapon depots amid ongoing tensions. Lebanon's government is committed to disarming Hezbollah but has yet to do so, despite a fragile ceasefire and recent talks on economic cooperation. The situation remains volatile with fears of renewed conflict.
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Two children, brothers Fadi and Juma Abu Assi, were killed in Gaza by an Israeli airstrike near Khan Younis. Israeli military said suspects crossing the ceasefire line posed an immediate threat, prompting the strike. The incident highlights ongoing tensions despite a fragile ceasefire since October 10.
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Pope Leo arrived in Lebanon on Sunday, his first trip abroad as pope, to appeal for peace amid ongoing Israeli strikes and regional conflict. He met with leaders, visited religious sites, and aimed to foster hope in a country strained by war, refugees, and economic crisis.
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Pope Leo's visit to Lebanon follows engagements in Istanbul, including a prayer at the Armenian Apostolic Cathedral and a liturgy with Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew. His trip aims to support Lebanon during its ongoing crises, including economic collapse, the Beirut port explosion, and regional conflicts involving Hezbollah and Israel. The pope will meet victims of the Beirut blast and encourage Lebanese unity and resilience.
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On November 30, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formally requested a presidential pardon amid his ongoing corruption trial. Netanyahu denies charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, arguing the trial divides Israel. The request follows a letter from former U.S. President Donald Trump urging pardon to aid national unity. President Herzog will review the request with legal counsel.
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The pope emphasized the need for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict during his visit to Turkey, highlighting Turkey's role in promoting dialogue. He also discussed conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, urging diplomatic efforts and condemning violence in religious conflicts.
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Pope Leo XIV arrived in Lebanon on Sunday for a three-day visit aimed at promoting peace and unity amid ongoing regional conflicts and Lebanon's internal crises. He met with political and religious leaders, called for reconciliation, and emphasized the importance of dialogue, especially regarding the Israeli-Hezbollah conflict and regional stability.
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The world's top 100 arms manufacturers earned a record $679 billion in 2024, driven by increased military spending amid conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Revenues rose mainly in Europe and the US, with Asian companies facing declines due to Chinese procurement issues. Despite delays in US programs, demand remains high worldwide.
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President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu are in talks amid ongoing military operations in Gaza and Syria. Trump emphasizes dialogue with Syria and praises its leadership, while Israel's recent strikes in Syria and Gaza escalate tensions. Netanyahu is expected to visit Washington soon.
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A large bear has taken up residence under a home in Altadena, California, prompting a wildlife response. The bear, estimated at 550 pounds, has been seen rummaging through trash and emerging from the crawl space. Authorities advise caution and monitoring, but no immediate threat has been declared.
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Iran's rial hits a new record low against the dollar, driven by stalled negotiations and ongoing sanctions. Food prices rise, and fears grow over potential conflict escalation and economic stability. The situation reflects Iran's strained economy since the US withdrew from the nuclear deal in 2018.
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On December 3, 2025, Israel's COGAT announced the Rafah crossing will reopen soon, allowing Gaza residents to exit to Egypt under EU supervision. Egypt insists the crossing must operate both ways per the US-brokered ceasefire, but Israel restricts entry until all hostages are returned. The crossing's reopening offers critical medical evacuation and economic relief amid Gaza's humanitarian crisis.
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Lebanon and Israel held their first civilian-led meeting since 1993 at the UN headquarters in Naqoura, near the border. Lebanon appointed former ambassador Simon Karam to lead its delegation, amid US and Israeli pressure for disarmament and peace negotiations. The talks aim to stabilize ceasefire tensions and foster economic cooperation.
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Iran's economy is under pressure as the rial hits a record low, driven by stalled negotiations and sanctions. Food prices rise, and fears of renewed conflict with Israel and the US grow amid ongoing tensions and military actions. The situation reflects Iran's strained relations and economic challenges.
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Houthi rebels announced the release of 10 mariners, including Filipinos and Indians, after claiming Oman took custody of them. The ships targeted in recent attacks, which have sunk vessels and killed mariners, saw a temporary ceasefire during the Gaza conflict. The situation remains tense with ongoing maritime threats.
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Germany has officially deployed the Israeli Arrow 3 missile defense system at the Holzdorf Air Base, marking its first operational use outside Israel and the US. The system enhances Germany's long-range missile defense, part of NATO efforts amid rising threats from Russia and Iran. The sale underscores deepening Israel-Germany defense ties.
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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned Israel's military actions in Gaza, citing potential war crimes and flawed conduct. He highlighted ongoing violations of a fragile ceasefire, praised US aid efforts, and called for a reassessment of strategies amid rising civilian casualties and destruction.
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A coalition of over 200 cultural figures, including actors, musicians, and writers, have signed an open letter urging the UN and governments to free Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti, who is in Israeli custody since 2002. Barghouti, convicted of involvement in attacks during the Second Intifada, faces allegations of abuse and inhumane treatment in prison. The campaign highlights his political significance and ongoing detention amid tensions over Gaza.
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The US military is deploying low-cost attack drones in the Middle East, emulating Iran's tactics, amid increased investment in autonomous systems and new competition with startups and traditional defense contractors. The move signals a shift toward cheaper, disposable drones for modern warfare.
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Heavy fighting continues in Gaza despite a ceasefire, with Israeli forces killing five Palestinians and ongoing clashes. Israel and Hamas exchange remains, and negotiations for border crossings and prisoner releases are ongoing amid international concern over potential war crimes.
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Lebanese and Israeli civilian officials met on Wednesday for the first direct talks in decades, focusing on ceasefire issues, hostages, and Israeli withdrawal. Lebanon reaffirmed its commitment to the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative, emphasizing peace must precede normalization and economic ties. The talks aim to reduce tensions amid ongoing Israeli strikes and troop presence.
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Pentagon Inspector General reports US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth used his personal Signal device to transmit sensitive information about Yemen strikes, raising concerns about security and judgment. The investigation, which has not yet been made public, clears Hegseth of classified information sharing but highlights protocol violations amid bipartisan scrutiny.
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As outgoing Mayor Adams enacts pro-Israel policies, NYC's incoming mayor Zohran Mamdani, a supporter of BDS and critical of Israel, faces a complex transition. Recent protests and executive orders highlight the city's divided stance on Israel and free speech, with Mamdani's approach likely to challenge Adams' pro-Israel legacy.
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Sudthisak Rinthalak, a Thai farmworker taken hostage during the October 2023 Hamas attack, was killed and his remains returned to Thailand. With only one hostage left, the ceasefire deal is nearing completion, involving exchanges of hostages and remains between Israel and Hamas.
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Several European countries, including Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia, have announced they will not participate in Eurovision 2026 in Vienna due to disagreements over Israel's participation amid the Gaza conflict. The European Broadcasting Union faces a divided stance, with some nations threatening to boycott if Israel is allowed to compete. The decision hinges on ongoing debates about political interference and contest neutrality.
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Israel's Knesset approved a NIS 662 billion ($205 billion) budget after negotiations, with defense spending set at NIS 112 billion. The budget faces opposition over tax hikes and allocations for Haredi communities, risking early elections if not approved by March 2026.
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Iran hosted large-scale anti-terrorism and missile exercises involving the IRGC Navy and SCO members, signaling military readiness amid ongoing tensions with Israel and the West. The drills included missile launches and naval warnings, emphasizing Iran’s strategic control over the Strait of Hormuz and regional security concerns. Today's date is Fri, 05 Dec 2025 16:01:34 +0000.