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On December 5, 2025, the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw will take 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 and fixture details, with the tournament running June 11 to July 19, 2026.
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On November 5, 2025, the UK and much of the world will witness the Beaver Moon, the largest and brightest full moon of the year, classified as a supermoon due to its close proximity to Earth. This is the second of three supermoons in 2025. Concurrently, meteor showers like the Orionids and upcoming Leonids offer additional celestial spectacles through December.
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A Turkish court has ordered a man to pay support for his cats in a divorce settlement, setting a precedent for pet care in legal disputes. Meanwhile, UAE courts have awarded custody and financial support to a woman after a divorce marked by neglect and abuse. Japan introduces new child support laws to ensure stability for children post-divorce.
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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will visit Washington from November 17-19, his first US trip since 2018. Discussions with President Trump will focus on political, economic, and security issues, including potential normalization with Israel and a US-Saudi security pact. The visit follows a fragile Gaza ceasefire brokered by Trump and his recent Gulf tour.
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Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has outlined plans for modest tax cuts, deregulation, and a focus on becoming a pro-business government. The party aims to remove inheritance tax from family farms, raise tax thresholds, and reassess public sector benefits, amid concerns over economic stability and Brexit's impact. The proposals face criticism from Labour and Conservatives.
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PayPal partners with OpenAI to enable instant AI-driven payments within ChatGPT, while Visa and Mastercard introduce AI-powered shopping and secure payment systems in the UAE. Meanwhile, US courts challenge Texas laws requiring age verification for app downloads, citing First Amendment issues. These developments highlight rapid innovation and regulation in digital payments.
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Yuli Edelstein was removed from his committee post after voting in favor of a West Bank annexation bill, which narrowly passed in the Knesset. The move highlights internal party discipline and ongoing debates over Israeli sovereignty, with international and US opposition complicating the process.
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Morocco's U-20 team won their first-ever FIFA World Cup, defeating Argentina 2-0 in Chile. The victory marks a historic achievement for Arab and African football, with Morocco also hosting a refugee women's team supported by FIFA amid ongoing restrictions in Afghanistan.
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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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The UK government faces a complex budget ahead, balancing rearmament costs, economic recovery, and environmental protections. Labour criticizes Brexit's economic impact, while tensions with the EU over environmental standards threaten trade relations. The government aims to boost growth amid inflation and security concerns.
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Since late October 2025, Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized El-Fasher after an 18-month siege, triggering mass displacement and atrocities. Over 80,000 fled to overcrowded camps like Tawila, facing dire shortages of food, water, and medical aid. Reports detail killings, sexual violence, and hospital attacks. The humanitarian crisis worsens amid ongoing conflict and limited safe passage for civilians.
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The RSF seized al-Fashir in Darfur on October 26, consolidating control amid reports of mass killings, abductions, and ongoing violence. Witnesses describe civilians targeted by drones and armed fighters, with international concern mounting over atrocities and humanitarian crises. Ceasefire talks are ongoing, but violence persists.
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Microsoft announced it has received approval to ship over 60,000 Nvidia chips to the UAE, including advanced GB300 Grace Blackwell processors, in a move that appears to contradict US export restrictions. The deal is part of a broader investment in AI infrastructure in the region, amid ongoing US-China chip export tensions.
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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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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.
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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.
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Fighting in Sudan's Kordofan region worsened as the UN reports ongoing violence, including civilian casualties and mass displacement. The RSF prepares to attack el-Fasher, amid reports of atrocities and a humanitarian crisis affecting thousands. The situation remains volatile with no ceasefire in sight.
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Kazakhstan is set to join the US-brokered Abraham Accords, despite already having diplomatic ties with Israel since 1992. The move aims to revitalize the accords amid regional tensions, though it is largely symbolic as Kazakhstan's relations with Israel are longstanding. The announcement follows US efforts to expand influence in Central Asia.
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Sudan's RSF has agreed to a US and Arab-backed humanitarian ceasefire amid ongoing clashes with the military. Despite the announcement, fighting continues in key regions like Darfur and Khartoum, with reports of violence, displacement, and international concern over potential atrocities. The situation remains volatile as negotiations continue.
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As of November 11, 2025, the US-led Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) has fully assumed primary control over humanitarian aid into Gaza, sidelining Israel's previous dominant role. The CMCC, involving over 40 countries, aims to improve aid flow amid ongoing restrictions and security concerns. Meanwhile, Cornell University agreed to a $60 million settlement with the US government to restore federal funding amid investigations into alleged civil rights violations, affirming academic freedom but maintaining diversity programs.
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The US has intensified efforts to pressure Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah and curb its funding, amid ongoing clashes with Israel and concerns over Iran-backed financial flows. US officials visited Lebanon and transit countries, emphasizing the need for stronger enforcement against illicit funds, while Lebanon's government claims progress in disarmament talks.
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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.
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The Sudanese war, ongoing since April 2023, has intensified with the RSF capturing El-Fasher, displacing thousands and prompting US calls to halt external weapons supplies. The US accuses the UAE of arming the RSF, while other countries deny involvement. The conflict has caused significant humanitarian suffering.
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Iran's Revolutionary Guard confiscated the Talara, a tanker carrying petrochemicals, near the UAE. The vessel was taken to Iranian waters following a court order, amid ongoing tensions over maritime security and regional conflicts. The incident marks Iran's first seizure in the Strait of Hormuz in over a year.
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Ukraine is pushing to restart peace negotiations with Russia, with recent efforts focused on prisoner exchanges mediated by Turkey and the UAE. Ukrainian officials hope to release 1,200 prisoners before the holidays amid ongoing Russian attacks on energy infrastructure and military positions.
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The Dubai Air Show features major aircraft deals, military sales, and plans for airport expansion. Emirates and FlyDubai report record profits, while Russia showcases arms despite sanctions. Lebanon announces new airline and airport upgrades amid regional tensions.
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At the Dubai Airshow, Flydubai announced a shift from Boeing to Airbus for its fleet expansion, ordering A321neos. Emirates placed a $38 billion order for Boeing 777X aircraft, amid delays. The event highlights regional growth and strategic airline investments.
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On November 19, 2025, President Donald Trump announced plans to intervene in Sudan's civil war following a request from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The conflict, ongoing since April 2023, has killed over 40,000 and displaced more than 14 million. Trump committed to working with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and other Middle Eastern partners to end atrocities and stabilize Sudan.
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Dan Driscoll, Army Secretary and close Vance ally, has taken a leading role in recent Ukraine-Russia peace negotiations, traveling to Kyiv, Geneva, and Abu Dhabi to push a revised peace framework. His efforts mark a significant shift in U.S. diplomatic engagement on the conflict, with high-level meetings and progress reported.
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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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Iraq secured a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winning their Asian playoff. The tournament will expand to 48 teams, with qualifiers from six continents. The draw is scheduled for December 5 in Washington, D.C., with the final tournament beginning in June 2026 across the US, Canada, and Mexico.
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Saudi Arabia's cabinet, chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, highlighted recent agreements with the US across defense, AI, nuclear energy, and investment sectors. The visit aimed to deepen strategic partnerships, with a focus on economic diversification, regional stability, and technological collaboration, including a new AI partnership and significant investment commitments.
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Iraq secured a spot in the intercontinental playoffs for the 2026 World Cup after a 2-1 win over the UAE in Basra, completing a 3-2 aggregate victory. They will face Bolivia or Suriname in March, with the match in Mexico. Coach Graham Arnold emphasizes preparation for the crucial game.
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The EU has imposed sanctions on Abdel-Rahim Hamdan Dagalo, deputy head of Sudan's Rapid Support Forces, following the seizure of El-Fasher in Darfur. The move condemns ongoing atrocities, including killings and sexual violence, amid Sudan's escalating conflict that has displaced millions since 2023. The US and other nations are calling for ceasefires and increased diplomatic efforts.
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An Indian HAL Tejas fighter jet crashed during a demonstration flight at an airport, with reports of black smoke and uncertainty about pilot ejection. The incident occurred on November 21, 2025, raising concerns about aircraft safety during public displays.
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On November 22, 2025, the COP30 climate summit in Belem, Brazil, concluded with a deal urging accelerated climate action and tripling adaptation finance by 2035. However, the agreement omitted a fossil fuel phase-out roadmap amid opposition from major oil producers, sparking criticism from many nations and climate advocates.
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A Tejas fighter jet, developed by India, crashed during a demonstration at Dubai World Central, killing its pilot. The incident occurred on the final day of the Dubai Airshow, marking the second crash involving the aircraft. The crash raises questions about India’s military modernization efforts and export ambitions.
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Sudan's military leader Abdel-Fattah Burhan has rejected a proposed ceasefire, accusing mediators of bias amid ongoing conflict since April 2023. The war has caused over 40,000 deaths, displaced millions, and created a severe humanitarian crisis. International efforts to broker peace continue, with US involvement increasing.
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The COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, concluded on 22 November 2025 with a compromised agreement after two weeks of tense negotiations. Despite support from over 80 countries for a fossil fuel phaseout plan, the final deal avoided explicit fossil fuel commitments, opting instead for voluntary initiatives and increased funding to help developing nations adapt to climate impacts. The summit exposed deep divisions between fossil fuel-dependent economies and others pushing for accelerated climate action.
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Amid ongoing conflict in Sudan, the RSF announced a unilateral three-month ceasefire following US and regional mediation efforts, but clashes continue. The Sudanese army rejected the proposals, citing bias and security concerns, as international actors push for peace amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.
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Turkish authorities arrested three defence company executives on suspicion of spying for foreign powers, initially linking them to the UAE, but later removing that detail. The suspects are accused of attempting to share employee biographical data. Turkey's defence exports increased significantly in 2024, driven by military drone sales.
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South Africa reports a third consecutive quarter of GDP growth, driven by sectors like mining, trade, and agriculture. Despite structural challenges, the economy shows signs of recovery, with employment rising and key industries expanding, supported by ongoing reforms and energy improvements.
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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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Recent drone strikes by the Sudanese Armed Forces in Kordofan have killed at least 48 civilians, including children and students, in what appears to be deliberate targeting. The attacks occurred amid ongoing civil war and escalating violence between the army and SPLM-N, with reports of civilian casualties and destruction. The conflict has caused a humanitarian crisis with famine and displacement.
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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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The Southern Transitional Council (STC) seized control of most of Hadramout, a resource-rich province in eastern Yemen, amid ongoing clashes with government forces. The move signals a potential shift toward Yemen's division, risking a renewed civil war. Negotiations are ongoing, but the situation remains volatile.