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Recent studies reveal that hunter-gatherers in Southeast Asia and southern China practiced large-scale mummification as early as 12,000 years ago. The bodies were smoke-dried in crouched positions, predating Egyptian mummies by thousands of years. The findings shed light on early mortuary practices and cultural connections across the region.
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In September 2025, the US military conducted at least three strikes on vessels alleged to be involved in drug trafficking near Venezuela, killing at least 17 men described as narcoterrorists. President Trump ordered the strikes, citing threats to US security, while Venezuela condemned the actions as illegal aggression and called for UN investigations amid rising regional tensions.
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Curacao, with a population of 156,000, has qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the smallest nation ever to do so. The team secured its spot with a 0-0 draw against Jamaica, in a dramatic CONCACAF qualifying finale. Haiti and Panama also qualified, with the expanded 48-team tournament set for North America.
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On December 5, 2025, the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw took 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. The event included celebrity hosts and performances, with final playoff teams to be decided in March 2026.
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The two-week CITES conference in Samarkand is considering stricter controls or bans on trade of species like Galapagos iguanas, Latin American tarantulas, and African turtles. The focus is on curbing illegal online wildlife sales driven by rising demand and social media influence.