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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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Israeli forces launched extensive 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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Israel is intensifying efforts to locate and recover the remains of hostage Ran Gvili, believed to be in Gaza. Recent searches have yet to find his body, which remains a key issue for advancing a ceasefire and future negotiations. The search is ongoing amid political and military tensions.
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As of December 11, 2025, the Gaza ceasefire brokered by the US and regional mediators since October 10 remains fragile. Hamas is open to a weapons freeze but rejects full disarmament demanded by Israel under Trump's 20-point plan. Israeli forces maintain control over half of Gaza, with ongoing disputes over prisoner exchanges, international peacekeeping deployment, and the reopening of border crossings.
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Taiwan's senior diplomat Wu likely traveled to Israel this month, marking a rise in engagement following Taiwan's support after the October 2023 Gaza conflict. The trip highlights Taiwan's strategic interest in strengthening ties with Israel despite limited formal recognition due to Beijing's pressure.
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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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Israel continues strikes on southern Lebanon despite a ceasefire, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure amid ongoing hostilities. Lebanon's government aims to disarm Hezbollah, but the group resists. Diplomatic talks have resumed, but violence and international criticism persist, with fears of broader conflict escalating.
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Dublin City Council considers renaming Herzog Park amid protests and accusations of antisemitism. The proposal, linked to Ireland's stance on Israel and Palestine, was withdrawn after political and community opposition, highlighting tensions over Irish history and current conflicts.
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On November 30, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formally requested a presidential pardon amid his ongoing corruption trial. Charged with bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, Netanyahu denies wrongdoing and argues the trial divides Israel. The request follows a letter from former U.S. President Donald Trump urging pardon to aid national unity. President Isaac Herzog will review the request with legal counsel.
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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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As of December 2025, 67 journalists were killed worldwide, with Israeli forces responsible for 43%, primarily in Gaza where over 220 journalists have died since October 2023 amid ongoing conflict. Israel continues to bar international journalists from Gaza, despite calls for access and legal challenges. U.S. lawmakers criticize Israel's lack of transparent investigations into attacks on journalists.
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Lebanon and Israel held their first civilian-led meeting since 1993 at the UN headquarters in Naqoura, amid US and Israeli pressure to disarm Hezbollah and normalize relations. Lebanon appointed former ambassador Simon Karam to lead its delegation, as tensions persist despite a ceasefire brokered in 2024.
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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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U.S. military and industry are rapidly developing autonomous and swarm drone technology, with recent deployments in the Middle East and increased domestic manufacturing efforts. These innovations aim to enhance battlefield mass, autonomy, and rapid production, reflecting a shift towards cheaper, disposable drones and autonomous systems amid global competition.
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Israeli forces have continued to violate the Gaza ceasefire, conducting airstrikes and raids, killing at least 385 Palestinians since October. Meanwhile, Hamas has agreed to hand over remains of captives, and border crossings are slowly reopening amid ongoing tensions and humanitarian crises.
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On December 4-5, 2025, a Pentagon Inspector General report cleared Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth of wrongdoing after he used the Signal app on his personal device to share sensitive information about planned strikes on Yemen's Houthi militants. While Hegseth had authority to declassify the material, the report found his actions violated Pentagon policy and risked operational security. The case is considered closed amid bipartisan scrutiny.
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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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Kevin Smith, 61, sent about 300 texts and three voicemails to Labour MP Alex Sobel, causing fear for his safety. Smith pleaded guilty and received a five-year restraining order. The case highlights rising antisemitic acts in Britain, with increased security concerns following recent attacks on Jewish sites.
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Recent incidents at US schools include a swastika formed by students at Branham High School and antisemitic content at Columbia University. Authorities and advocacy groups are investigating, condemning hate, and working to protect Jewish students amid rising antisemitism following the Gaza conflict.
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Yasser Abu Shabab, a militia leader linked to Israeli-backed groups in Gaza, was killed during a family dispute. His death exposes Israel's failed strategy to establish proxy forces in Gaza, highlighting internal divisions and the fragility of Israeli efforts to control the enclave.
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On December 5, 2025, the US released a 33-page National Security Strategy (NSS) outlining a major shift in foreign policy. It prioritizes American dominance in the Western Hemisphere, military strength in the Indo-Pacific, and adopts a critical stance on Europe’s future, warning of "civilizational erasure" due to migration and political trends. The strategy downplays ideological promotion abroad, focusing on pragmatic trade and alliances, and signals a distancing from traditional European partnerships.
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On December 8, 2024, rebels led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa seized Damascus, ending Bashar al-Assad's 13-year rule. Celebrations marked the anniversary, with the new government focusing on rebuilding, security, and political stability amid ongoing sectarian tensions and external challenges. The country remains fragile but hopeful for the future.
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Lebanon's president, Aoun, announced ongoing negotiations with Israel to prevent renewed conflict, following recent US-brokered talks and Israeli military strikes. Despite a ceasefire, Israeli forces continue to occupy Lebanese territory and conduct attacks, complicating efforts for peace and disarmament of Hezbollah.
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The UN Security Council discussed the future of UNIFIL in Lebanon, as its mandate expires at the end of 2026. Lebanon's Prime Minister called for a follow-up force to fill the security vacuum, amid ongoing tensions and recent conflicts with Israel and Hezbollah.
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Despite a US-backed ceasefire, Gaza's healthcare system remains strained with severe shortages of medicines, damaged hospitals, and slow evacuations. The WHO reports over 1,000 patient deaths and ongoing delays in aid and evacuations, amid continued violence and international calls for full humanitarian access.
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High-level meetings between US, Qatar, and Israel focus on implementing the Gaza ceasefire. Discussions include troop withdrawals, Hamas disarmament, and deploying an international stabilisation force. Key issues remain unresolved, with ongoing tensions and violations threatening the fragile truce, now nearly two months old.
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The Palestinian embassy in London was targeted by masked men waving Israeli flags and Union Jacks. The ambassador called for increased security after vandalism and stickers with political messages. Despite Britain's recognition of Palestine, security arrangements remain unchanged, raising concerns over staff safety amid ongoing tensions in Gaza.
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German leader Friedrich Merz visited Israel and Jordan amid ongoing Gaza conflict, reaffirming support for Israel while navigating strained relations over arms exports and Netanyahu's ICC arrest warrant. The trip highlights Germany's balancing act between historical responsibility and current geopolitical interests.
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Recent reports reveal that Nick Fuentes's rise in online prominence is largely driven by foreign bot farms based mainly in Asia and Africa. These automated accounts artificially inflate his engagement, potentially serving foreign interests aiming to destabilize US political discourse and amplify extremist narratives.
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Syria's President Ahmed al-Sharaa warned that Israel's push for a demilitarized zone in southern Syria threatens regional stability. He emphasized adherence to the 1974 disengagement agreement amid ongoing Israeli incursions and airstrikes since the fall of Assad's regime last December. The US supports Syria's stance, but negotiations have stalled.
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Efforts for a security deal between Syria and Israel have failed to progress, despite US encouragement. Syria emphasizes adherence to the 1974 disengagement agreement, opposing Israeli demands for a demilitarized zone. Tensions remain high with ongoing Israeli incursions and regional instability.
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Bethlehem's Christmas celebrations have resumed after two years of silence due to war in Gaza. The city lit a large tree in Manger Square, signaling a cautious return of festivities amid ongoing conflict, economic hardship, and a fragile ceasefire. Tourism is slowly rebounding, but tensions remain high.
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Bethlehem's Christmas tree was lit for the first time in two years amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. Celebrations were modest, attended by locals and pilgrims, symbolizing resilience and hope despite economic and political hardships caused by the war and Israeli military actions.
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Hamas and Israel are preparing for the second phase of a US-backed ceasefire, focusing on disarmament, troop withdrawal, and Gaza reconstruction. Mediation continues, with international forces expected early next year. Key issues include Hamas's weapons storage and Israeli troop pullback, amid ongoing violence and negotiations.
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Iran has begun trial proceedings for a dual national accused of espionage, linked to Israel. The suspect entered Iran before the June conflict with Israel, which escalated after Iran's military response to Israeli strikes on its nuclear sites. Iran claims the individual was trained in European capitals and the occupied territories. The case underscores ongoing regional tensions and Iran's use of detainees for leverage.
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On December 8, 2025, Israeli police and municipal officials forcibly entered the UNRWA compound in East Jerusalem, seizing property and replacing the UN flag with an Israeli one. Israel cited unpaid municipal taxes, while UNRWA and the UN condemned the raid as a violation of international law. The compound remains empty since Israel banned UNRWA operations in January 2025.
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The EU is preparing to assist Lebanon's internal security forces ahead of UNIFIL's withdrawal in 2026. Israel continues strikes on Lebanese territory amid ongoing tensions with Hezbollah. Lebanon seeks international verification of Hezbollah's rearmament, with US and French involvement possible.
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Israeli police Sgt. Ran Gvili remains missing in Gaza after Hamas's October 2023 attack. Despite Israeli claims of his death, his family holds hope he is alive. Recent searches by Hamas and Israeli officials have yet to locate his body, complicating negotiations and ceasefire progress.
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Efforts to implement the Gaza ceasefire face delays amid accusations of violations by both Israel and Hamas. The reopening of key crossings and aid flows are limited, with ongoing violence and political disagreements hindering full implementation of the deal. The next phase involves disarming Hamas and withdrawing Israeli forces, but progress remains uncertain.
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UNICEF reports that 9,300 children in Gaza were treated for severe malnutrition in October, despite a ceasefire agreement. Aid flows are still insufficient, with obstacles at crossings and security issues limiting supplies. The situation highlights ongoing humanitarian challenges in the region.
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Israel has reopened the Allenby (King Hussein) crossing for cargo aid into Gaza after security upgrades following a September incident. The crossing, the only route for Palestinians from the West Bank to Jordan, had been closed after a Jordanian driver killed two Israeli soldiers. Aid trucks are now passing under escort, with increased security measures in place.
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Bolivia and Israel are set to renew diplomatic relations after two years, ending a severance linked to Israel's Gaza conflict. The move follows Bolivia's new government under President Paz, aiming to rebuild international ties and improve relations with the US and Israel. The countries plan to reopen embassies soon.
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On December 10, 2025, US Customs and Border Protection proposed mandatory collection of five years of social media data, phone numbers, emails, and biometric information from travelers under the Visa Waiver Program. This expands existing social media screening to visa-exempt visitors from 42 countries, including the UK, France, Australia, Japan, and Israel, aiming to enhance national security ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Public comments are open for 60 days.
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Turkey remains in talks with the US over rejoining the F-35 program after being excluded in 2020 over its purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems. US-Turkey relations have improved under Trump, with discussions focusing on Turkey relinquishing the S-400s to meet US security requirements. Turkish officials remain optimistic about resolving sanctions soon.
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Israel's government approved over 500 new settlement units in the West Bank, including in Hashmonaim, Beitar Illit, and Giv'at Ze'ev. The move, condemned by the Palestinian Authority and international bodies, continues Israel's settlement expansion amid regional tensions and increased violence. The decision follows recent escalation in settler attacks and military activity.
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Several countries including Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, the Netherlands, and Iceland have announced their withdrawal from Eurovision 2026 due to disagreements over Israel's participation. The EBU's decision to allow Israel to compete despite political tensions has sparked protests and boycotts, with some broadcasters citing disunity and insufficient reforms. The final list of participants will be announced before Christmas.
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Storm Byron threatens Gaza with heavy rains, floods, and strong winds, worsening an ongoing humanitarian crisis. Israeli restrictions hinder aid and shelter supplies, leaving thousands vulnerable to flooding and disease. International pressure is urged to improve aid access and response capacity. Today’s date is Fri, 12 Dec 2025 06:25:04 +0000.
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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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Amnesty International's latest report details crimes against humanity committed by Hamas during its October 2023 attack on Israel, including murder, torture, and hostage mistreatment. The report also accuses Israel of genocide in its Gaza response, amid ongoing violence and high civilian casualties.
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Egypt has expressed frustration with Israel over restrictions at the Rafah crossing amid ongoing Gaza conflict. Cairo demands open borders in both directions, citing security concerns and opposition to displacement. Diplomatic relations are strained, with Egypt wary of being used as a political pawn and delaying regional economic deals.