-
On January 14-15, 2026, the US began withdrawing some military personnel from key Middle East bases, including Qatar's Al Udeid, amid escalating tensions with Iran. Tehran warned it would target US bases if attacked, following the worst domestic unrest since 1979. President Trump has threatened strong action in support of Iranian protesters, while Iran accuses the US and Israel of fomenting unrest.
-
Israel has received the remains of several hostages, including Lior Rudaeff and Joshua Mollel, from Gaza as part of a ceasefire agreement. The process has been slow, with ongoing disputes over identification and the return of bodies. The exchange is a key element of the ongoing Israel-Hamas ceasefire.
-
The US is advancing a UN resolution to establish an international stabilization force in Gaza, aiming to oversee demilitarization, border security, and police training. The resolution follows a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, with troop contributions under discussion. The vote is expected soon, with deployment possible by early 2026.
-
The FIFA Arab Cup 2025 begins in Qatar with 16 teams competing across six venues, including Lusail Stadium. Algeria defends their title, while Iraq and Tunisia aim for World Cup qualification. The tournament runs until December 18, with regional stars and qualifiers shaping the region's football landscape.
-
U.S. prosecutors in Florida have issued over two dozen subpoenas related to the Obama-era intelligence assessment on Russian interference in the 2016 election. The investigation, led by U.S. Attorney Jason Reding Quinones, seeks documents on the assessment's preparation amid ongoing political tensions and Trump's calls for retribution. The probes focus on officials involved in the original inquiry, with potential criminal implications.
-
The Democratic Republic of the Congo's foreign minister criticizes Rwanda's actions, questioning its commitment to peace in eastern DRC. Despite diplomatic efforts and a peace agreement, ongoing military presence and abuses hinder progress. Recent meetings in Washington reaffirm commitments, but implementation remains slow and fragile.
-
Efforts to advance Gaza ceasefire negotiations are hindered by the fate of around 200 Palestinian fighters trapped in Rafah. Mediation by Turkey, Egypt, Qatar, and the US is ongoing, with discussions focusing on safe passage and security arrangements. The situation remains tense as negotiations continue today.
-
On Tuesday, a suicide bomber detonated explosives outside Islamabad's District Judicial Complex, killing at least 12 and injuring over 30. The attack, claimed by a Pakistani Taliban faction, marks the first major assault on civilians in Islamabad in over a decade. Pakistani officials accuse Afghan-based militants and India-backed proxies, escalating tensions with Afghanistan amid ongoing border clashes and failed peace talks.
-
Turkey is seeking a significant role in Gaza's post-ceasefire reconstruction, hosting talks with Egypt and US officials. Despite Israeli opposition, Turkey emphasizes its willingness to help rebuild Gaza and monitor ceasefire compliance amid ongoing tensions over the fate of hostages and fighters.
-
Jared Kushner met with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in Jerusalem to discuss the ongoing Gaza ceasefire, focusing on disarmament, security arrangements, and governance. The talks follow a US-brokered truce that has partially halted two years of Israeli bombardment and ongoing conflict, with key issues including Hamas disarmament and the future of Gaza's governance.
-
Pakistani authorities detained two men suspected of links to the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in connection with a suicide bombing at Islamabad's district court. The attack killed at least 12 and injured over 30. The suspects reportedly received orders via Telegram from a TTP commander based in Afghanistan. The incident highlights ongoing militant threats despite security efforts.
-
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.
-
In November 2025, Congo's government and M23 rebels signed a framework agreement in Doha, mediated by Qatar and the US, aiming to outline protocols for future peace negotiations. The deal addresses root causes of conflict, but implementation remains uncertain amid ongoing violence and accusations of violations.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Qatar's leader visited the DRC to bolster peace talks with M23 rebels amid ongoing violence. A framework agreement was signed, backed by the US and Qatar, aiming to end years of conflict in eastern DRC. Despite progress, violence persists, and negotiations face delays.
-
On December 8, 2025, Paramount Skydance launched a hostile $108 billion all-cash bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), challenging Netflix's $83 billion deal announced the previous week. Paramount's offer includes WBD's cable assets like CNN, unlike Netflix's bid. The Ellison family, backed by Middle Eastern sovereign wealth funds and Jared Kushner's private equity, finances Paramount's bid. President Trump has expressed intent to involve himself in regulatory approval, citing competition concerns.
-
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.
-
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.
-
On December 5, 2025, FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarded US President Donald Trump the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize during the 2026 World Cup draw ceremony in Washington DC. The prize recognizes Trump's efforts in brokering peace deals, including a Gaza ceasefire, despite criticism over his administration's military actions and human rights record. The event highlighted Infantino's close ties with Trump amid global controversy.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Venezuelan President Maduro is taking extensive security measures due to US military pressure, including relocating his sleeping locations, increasing Cuban security support, and publicly maintaining a defiant image. The US has escalated its military presence, aiming for regime change, while Maduro seeks outside help to stay in power.
-
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.
-
Palestine and Syria advanced to the Arab Cup quarter-finals after draws in their final group matches, despite ongoing conflicts. Palestine topped Group A with a 0-0 draw against Syria, while Qatar and Tunisia were eliminated after losses. Saudi Arabia and Morocco secured semi-final spots with wins.
-
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.
-
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.
-
The full match schedule for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America was announced, detailing game locations, times, and potential heat concerns. The tournament will be hosted across the US, Canada, and Mexico, with specific attention to weather conditions affecting players and fans.
-
The US is increasingly asserting influence over Gaza, with the UN Security Council discussing a stabilization force amid ongoing conflicts. This marks a shift in international power dynamics, with the US acting as a de facto occupier, raising questions about legality and sovereignty as regional conflicts persist.
-
Efforts to implement the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire are underway amid ongoing violations and a deepening humanitarian crisis. Key issues include disarmament, troop withdrawal, and international peacekeeping, with negotiations involving Israel, Hamas, the US, and other nations. The situation remains fragile as aid access and security arrangements are debated.
-
Tucker Carlson announced plans to buy property in Qatar during a Doha Forum interview, asserting his independence as an American. The move drew criticism from political figures and commentators who questioned Qatar's regional ties and lobbying efforts. Carlson defends his decision as a statement of freedom and personal choice.
-
One year after Bashar al-Assad's regime fell, Syria shows signs of political and cultural change. The country is shifting from military repression to a focus on media, arts, and international diplomacy, with new film productions and diplomatic visits signaling a tentative move toward normalization and reconstruction.
-
The UK announced a ban on new oil and gas licenses, windfall taxes, and faster fossil fuel phase-out, emphasizing climate leadership. Meanwhile, Canada signed a pipeline deal supporting increased fossil fuel production, delaying methane regulations and weakening green policies amid global climate crises.
-
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.
-
As of December 31, 2025, Larry Ellison has personally guaranteed $40.4 billion to support Paramount Skydance's $108 billion hostile all-cash bid for Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD). This move addresses WBD's concerns over financing reliability, challenging Netflix's $82.7 billion cash-and-stock offer for part of WBD. The Ellisons aim to acquire all of WBD, including CNN and Discovery, intensifying a contentious bidding war with regulatory and shareholder implications.
-
Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya accused Israel of violating the October ceasefire by killing Hamas commander Raad Saad and others. Despite ongoing Israeli attacks and violations of humanitarian access, Hamas insists the role of international forces should be limited to maintaining the ceasefire, rejecting any internal intervention.
-
The US is actively seeking international support for a multinational force to oversee Gaza's security, with plans for troop contributions from around 70 countries. The effort aims to implement a phased peace plan, including disarmament and governance reforms, amid ongoing tensions and slow progress in the region.
-
Since the Gaza ceasefire began in October 2025, violations by Israel continue, threatening the fragile peace. Mediation efforts by the US, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey focus on advancing the second phase, including Israeli withdrawal and deployment of an international stabilization force. Humanitarian conditions worsen amid ongoing violence and storms.
-
As of late December 2025, the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, brokered by President Trump, remains stalled amid disputes over Hamas disarmament, Israeli troop withdrawals, and the deployment of an international stabilization force. Pakistan's Field Marshal Asim Munir is set to meet Trump to discuss troop contributions despite domestic opposition. Gaza endures ongoing ceasefire violations and humanitarian challenges.
-
On December 21, 2025, the winter solstice was observed across the Northern Hemisphere, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year. Celebrations included gatherings at Stonehenge and cultural events in Iran and the Arab world, highlighting both scientific and cultural traditions surrounding this astronomical event.
-
Morocco is hosting the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, with new stadiums and facilities across six cities. The tournament begins with Morocco facing Comoros at Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat. This event highlights Morocco's extensive sports infrastructure development and regional ambitions.
-
Morocco defeated Jordan 2-1 in the 2025 Arab Cup final at Lusail Stadium, with a stunning early goal from Tannane and a late winner from Hamdallah. Jordan fought back to lead before Morocco's late surge secured their second Arab Cup title amid weather disruptions and dramatic moments.
-
December 21 marked the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. While Gulf countries note it as an astronomical milestone, Iran and Persian communities celebrate Yalda, an ancient festival symbolizing rebirth and light. The event marks the start of winter and the return of longer days.
-
A US-led team, including Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, has drafted a 10-year, $112 billion plan to transform Gaza into a high-tech metropolis. The proposal involves rebuilding infrastructure, luxury housing, and smart city features, contingent on Hamas disarming. The plan has yet to secure firm funding or detailed implementation strategies.
-
The US State Department has notified at least 29 ambassadors, mostly appointed during Biden's administration, that their postings will end in January. The move affects key countries in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, as part of a broader effort to align diplomacy with the current administration's priorities.
-
As 2026 approaches, Israel confronts multiple crises: Netanyahu's legal and political troubles, regional conflicts, and shifting international support. The country faces tough decisions on security, diplomacy, and domestic policy amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, with internal divisions intensifying.
-
Kuwait has awarded a $4.16 billion contract for Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, linking to China's Belt and Road. Saudi Arabia signed agreements to boost exports and logistics, while Egypt announced a $200 million factory for sustainable jet fuel, strengthening regional economic ties.
-
On December 26, 2025, Israel became the first UN member state to officially recognize Somaliland as an independent country, signing a joint declaration with Somaliland's president. The move, framed as part of the Abraham Accords, has sparked widespread condemnation from Somalia, the African Union, and regional powers, who view it as a threat to Somalia's sovereignty and regional stability. Somaliland hailed the recognition as historic and a step toward strategic partnership.
-
On Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu met US President Trump at Mar-a-Lago to discuss advancing the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan. Key issues include Hamas disarmament, Gaza's demilitarization, and establishing a Palestinian technocratic government. The talks also covered Iran's nuclear activities and Hezbollah's disarmament amid ongoing regional tensions.
-
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announced that the Rafah crossing will remain closed until the body of Israeli captive Ran Gvili is recovered, citing security and political reasons. This decision follows ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza and regional diplomatic efforts to implement a ceasefire, with regional and international actors urging full compliance.