People in Belfast, Northern Ireland gathered to show support for Palestinian activists on hunger strike in British prisons. These activists are protesting their detention while awaiting trial for alleged involvement in activities against Elbit Systems and a Royal Air Force base. The hunger strike has gained international attention, drawing parallels to the 1981 Irish hunger strikes.
Key Facts
Hundreds in Belfast supported Palestinian activists on hunger strike in British prisons.
The activists are involved with Palestine Action, a group banned in the UK under anti-terrorism laws.
The hunger strike has been described as the largest in Britain since the 1981 Irish hunger strikes.
The activists are protesting conditions in prison, denial of fair trial, and are demanding bail.
They face charges related to alleged break-ins and damage to military and corporate properties.
Four activists are prominent on hunger strike: Heba Muraisi, Teuta Hoxha, Kamran Ahmed, and Lewie Chiaramello.
The 1981 hunger strikes in Northern Ireland, where 10 men died, inspire the current protests.
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Tiffany Calver is leaving BBC Radio 1Xtra after hosting a show there for seven years. She was the first female host of the Rap Show on the station and has played a key role in promoting both female broadcasters and British musical talent.
Key Facts
Tiffany Calver was the first woman to host BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra's Rap Show at age 24.
She is leaving BBC Radio 1Xtra after working there for seven years.
In 2023, she stepped down from the Rap Show to create her own multi-genre show.
Calver has introduced new music and interviewed many artists, including US rapper Pop Smoke.
She faced challenges with self-doubt, commonly known as imposter syndrome, during her career.
Her last show included a back-to-back performance with her dad and messages from musicians like Tinie Tempah.
Calver aims to explore and present a wider range of music after leaving 1Xtra.
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Videos online show Nicki Minaj's music being booed in clubs, and people stop dancing when her songs start playing. The backlash arises from her recent support for President Donald Trump and conservative stances, contrasting her previous more liberal views. Some fans are upset, leading to petitions for her deportation, although she still has some supporters.
Key Facts
Videos show club-goers booing and refusing to dance to Nicki Minaj's music.
The backlash follows Minaj's support for President Donald Trump and conservative views.
Nicki Minaj's interview with Erika Kirk and support at a Trump event contributed to this reaction.
Two petitions on Change.org call for Minaj's deportation back to Trinidad, gaining tens of thousands of signatures.
A TikTok video critical of Minaj was viewed over 1.7 million times.
Despite criticism, some people defend and continue to enjoy Minaj's music.
Nicki Minaj dismissed her critics during a speech at a conservative conference.
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A fire in a nightclub in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, on New Year’s Eve led to the deaths of at least 40 people. Officials believe the fire started from a Champagne sparkler candle that was too close to the ceiling. The fire quickly spread because of something known as a flashover, which occurs when a fire rapidly grows and spreads.
Key Facts
The fire happened at a nightclub in the ski resort town of Crans-Montana, Switzerland.
At least 40 people were killed, and 119 were injured in the fire.
Officials suspect the fire started from a sparkler candle used on a Champagne bottle.
The sparkler was too close to the ceiling, leading to a rapid spread of the fire.
Crans-Montana is a popular ski resort in the Swiss Alps.
The resort is known for its winter sports and hosts major skiing events.
Authorities have warned visitors to be cautious to prevent further accidents.
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The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS), a drama school, has opened its photo archives to celebrate its 75th anniversary. The archives feature early pictures of famous actors like David Tennant, James McAvoy, Sam Heughan, and Jack Lowden before they became well-known in their careers. RCS has trained many successful actors and creatives over the years.
Key Facts
The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is marking its 75th anniversary by sharing old photos of famous actors.
David Tennant, known for his roles in "Doctor Who" and "Harry Potter," graduated from RCS and started in a Saturday drama class there.
James McAvoy, now a successful actor and director, graduated from RCS in 2000 and has established a scholarship to help future drama students.
Sam Heughan gained international fame from "Outlander" and supports RCS students with scholarships and creative awards.
Jack Lowden, an RCS alumnus, has become a well-known actor with roles in film and television.
RCS has been a training ground for many actors who have gone on to work in Hollywood, on Broadway, and in TV.
The school was originally known as the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama.
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A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 6.5 hit southern Mexico, near the tourist area of Acapulco. The U.S. Geological Survey provided this information.
Key Facts
An earthquake of 6.5 magnitude occurred in southern Mexico.
The earthquake's location was near Acapulco, a well-known tourist destination.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported the earthquake.
The event is classified as breaking news, indicating it is a recent incident.
Further updates and information are expected to follow.
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A TikTok video of a rescue dog named Oliver experiencing a squeaky toy for the first time has gone viral. Oliver was saved from a puppy mill and is learning to enjoy new experiences in his new home. The video has gained significant attention and positive reactions online.
Key Facts
Oliver is a rescue dog taken from a puppy mill where he spent the first three years of his life.
A TikTok video shows Oliver's first encounter with a squeaky toy, which he found both confusing and exciting.
The video of Oliver has received over 103,600 views and more than 24,300 likes.
Oliver was rescued in November 2025 and has since made significant progress in his new home.
Many social media users commented positively on Oliver’s reaction, with some noting the joy of seeing him learn to be a regular dog.
TikTok user @hanna_selman_art shared the video, and Newsweek contacted them for comment. The video details could not be independently verified.
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In Indore, India, contaminated tap water has led to a diarrhoea outbreak, causing multiple deaths and hospitalizing over 200 people. Officials attribute the issue to a sewage leak contaminating the drinking water. The state has taken steps to provide safe water supply while continuing investigations.
Key Facts
More than 200 people are hospitalized in Indore due to contaminated tap water.
Investigations suggest a pipeline leak allowed sewage to mix with drinking water.
At least four deaths have been confirmed, but reports suggest the number may be higher.
Approximately 2,450 cases of vomiting and diarrhoea have been identified in the affected area.
Health authorities have screened around 40,000 residents in the neighborhood.
The local government is supplying safe water through tankers.
One municipal officer was dismissed and two others were suspended due to the incident.
Complaints about the water contamination had been made for months before the outbreak.
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Two men have been charged after an elderly man was killed in a hit-and-run accident in Gillingham. The victim was hit by a grey Mercedes and carried a significant distance before being found on the ground.
Key Facts
The incident occurred on the A289 Gads Hill in Gillingham.
The victim was a man in his 80s.
A grey Mercedes estate was involved in the crash.
The man collided with the car and was carried almost a mile away.
Albert Matraxhiu, aged 28, has been charged with death by dangerous driving.
Erald Paci, aged 29, has been charged with perverting the course of justice.
Both men are due to appear in Medway Magistrates' Court.
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In 2025, Russia faced accusations of staging a false drone attack on President Vladimir Putin's residence, claimed to be orchestrated by Ukraine. Ukraine denied any such attack, and no evidence confirmed the incident occurred. Meanwhile, Ukraine secured U.S. assurances for security support in talks between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump.
Key Facts
Russia claimed Ukraine attempted a drone attack on President Putin's residence near Moscow.
Ukraine denied the attack, stating there was no evidence supporting Russia's claim.
Ukraine's denial was supported by an opposition outlet noting no air defense action was observed.
Ukraine reached an agreement with the United States for security support following any peace deal with Russia.
The U.S. agreed to consider placing troops to support Ukraine's security after a peace agreement.
The announcement of the U.S. support gave hope for an end to the war, said Polish Premier Donald Tusk.
Ukraine plans to meet with allies in Kyiv and France to discuss future security arrangements.
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Four men were rescued after their boat got stuck on the edge of a dam in South Africa. The National Sea Rescue Institute (NRSI) helped rescue them by safely opening sluice gates to prevent the boat from being swept away. The men were unharmed in the incident.
Key Facts
Four men were stuck on a boat at the edge of a 40-meter dam in South Africa.
The incident took place at Grootdraai Dam in Mpumalanga.
The boat suffered motor failure, drifting to the dam's edge.
Rescuers from the National Sea Rescue Institute (NRSI) were involved in the rescue.
Quick-thinking employees opened sluice gates to control waterflow.
The men were reported to be uninjured after the rescue.
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A Reddit user shared a drawing they made at age nine, depicting their parents in an exaggerated manner. The drawing went viral, prompting many people to comment on its humorous and "brutal" depiction of their parents. The artist clarified that the portrait was not a reflection of reality.
Key Facts
A 9-year-old's drawing of their parents was shared on Reddit, quickly gaining attention for its exaggerated portrayal.
The drawing was posted by the user u/icantoteit136 on the subreddit r/KidsAreF******Stupid.
The depiction included detailed features such as varicose veins on the mother and an exaggerated belly on the father.
The post received more than 41,000 upvotes and attracted numerous comments.
The artist explained the drawing was not based on reality; their father was actually average-sized.
The mother was labeled as "Beth," which turned out to be a childhood nickname given by the artist.
The nickname for the mother has evolved over time, becoming "McFish" and "McFlesh."
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A couple from Ohio started recording a video message each New Year’s Eve since they got married in 2014, to watch a decade later with their future family. Their original 2014 video, watched with their four children in 2024, went viral, gaining millions of views online. The couple has continued this tradition, which studies show can improve family closeness and holiday enjoyment.
Key Facts
Sarah Sutter and her husband started a tradition of making video messages every New Year’s Eve since their marriage in 2014.
They watch these videos 10 years later to see how their family has changed.
The video from 2014 was watched with their four children in 2024 and went viral, with 3.4 million views on Instagram.
The couple, initially without children, now has five and several farm animals.
Studies show family traditions can strengthen family bonds and make holidays more enjoyable.
Followers on social media responded positively to the idea, with over 103,000 likes on the video.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called a missile strike on Kharkiv a "heinous" attack by Russia. Two missiles hit the city center, injuring at least 16 people. Zelensky emphasized that Russia continues the war despite international peace efforts.
Key Facts
The missile strike took place in Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city.
At least 16 people were reported injured from the attack.
Ukrainian President Zelensky described the attack as "heinous."
Zelensky criticized Russia for prolonging the war.
The attack happened during peace talks led by the United States.
Zelensky communicated about the event on a social media platform called X.
He stressed that Russia seems unwilling to end the war.
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Photos of Kim Jong Un’s daughter, Kim Ju Ae, appearing with him at a significant North Korean site have sparked rumors about her role as a possible future leader. Her public appearances with Kim on several important occasions suggest she might be groomed as his successor, continuing the Kim family dynasty. The discussion around North Korea's leadership succession is ongoing and includes other potential contenders like Kim's sister, Kim Yo Jong.
Key Facts
North Korean state media released photos of Kim Jong Un’s daughter, Kim Ju Ae, at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun.
Kim Ju Ae first appeared publicly in 2022 and has since joined her father on various high-profile occasions.
Speculation about her role as a potential successor has increased due to her frequent public appearances with Kim.
Kim Ju Ae is believed to be in her early teens.
The visit to the mausoleum included paying respects to past leaders of North Korea's ruling family.
The appearance suggests a focus on family image and stability within the Kim dynasty.
There is ongoing speculation about North Korea's line of succession, including figures like Kim Yo Jong.
Kim Ju Ae’s name was revealed by Dennis Rodman and later confirmed by South Korean intelligence.
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Electric vehicle (EV) drivers in central London now have to pay a congestion charge. The change took effect on January 2, 2024, and EV drivers can receive a discount if they use Auto Pay. The congestion charge for regular vehicles also increased from £15 to £18.
Key Facts
EV drivers in central London must now pay a congestion charge.
The change began on January 2, 2024.
Regular vehicles have seen an increase in the congestion charge from £15 to £18.
EVs can get a 25% discount on the fee if registered for Auto Pay, reducing the charge to £13.50 a day.
Electric vans and similar vehicles can receive a 50% discount with Auto Pay registration.
The congestion charge applies between 07:00 and 18:00 on weekdays and between 12:00 and 18:00 on weekends and bank holidays.
The discount rates for EVs are set to decrease further in 2030.
By 2027, new applicants will get a 90% residents' discount only if they drive EVs.
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Israel's foreign ministry criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for revoking the city’s adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of antisemitism. The move drew backlash from various groups, although some praised Mamdani for keeping measures to combat antisemitism in place.
Key Facts
Israel condemned Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s decision to revoke the IHRA definition of antisemitism on his first day in office.
The IHRA definition describes antisemitism as a perception of Jews that may manifest as hate.
Mamdani faced criticism during his campaign for his views on Israel and support for the Palestinian cause.
Rabbi Chanina Sperlin praised Mamdani for maintaining the Mayor’s Office to Combat Antisemitism.
Mamdani stated that addressing antisemitism is a serious commitment for his administration.
Mamdani took office after former Mayor Eric Adams was indicted and his corruption case dismissed.
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Investigators are working to identify the victims and determine the cause of a fire at a bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, which occurred on New Year's Eve 2026. The fire resulted in about 40 deaths and injured approximately 115 people. Efforts to identify those affected are ongoing, with officials using dental and DNA samples due to the severity of some injuries.
Key Facts
The fire happened at a bar in Crans-Montana, a town in the Swiss Alps, during a New Year's Eve party.
Approximately 40 people died, and about 115 others were injured.
The process of identifying victims is challenging because some bodies are severely burned.
Swiss officials are using dental records and DNA samples for identification.
Witnesses described scenes of panic with people trying to escape the fire.
The exact number of people present when the fire started is still unclear.
Italy reports 47 deaths, and both Italy and France have nationals among the missing.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin stated the fire was a significant disaster and has ordered national mourning.
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The National Weather Service issued a weather alert for Lake Mead and nearby areas due to dense fog, which could make driving conditions dangerous. A wind advisory was also in place, warning of strong winds that could create hazardous boating conditions.
Key Facts
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a weather alert for Lake Mead and surrounding areas.
Dense fog is expected, reducing visibility to a quarter mile or less.
The foggy conditions may lead to dangerous driving situations.
The NWS advises drivers to slow down, use headlights, and keep extra distance between vehicles.
Cities affected by the alert include Las Vegas, Henderson, Boulder City, and more.
A wind advisory was also issued, forecasting north winds of 15 to 25 miles per hour with gusts up to 45 miles per hour.
Boating conditions on lakes like Lake Mead and Lake Havasu are expected to be hazardous due to waves and wind.
Calmer weather conditions are expected to return after Monday.
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U.S. citizens are now banned from entering Mali and Burkina Faso after these countries enacted reciprocal travel restrictions against the United States. This action follows President Donald Trump's inclusion of these nations in a list of countries with travel bans to the U.S. The bans from Mali and Burkina Faso took effect immediately.
Key Facts
Mali and Burkina Faso have banned U.S. citizens from entering their countries.
The bans are in response to President Trump's ban on citizens from these two African countries entering the U.S.
The U.S. travel ban, expanded on December 16, includes Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, South Sudan, and Syria.
The travel bans from Mali and Burkina Faso are effective immediately.
The Trump administration's travel bans aim to address national security and counterterrorism goals.
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are currently governed by military juntas.
The U.S. State Department advises Americans against traveling to these countries due to security concerns.
The bans by Trump administration came into effect on January 1, 2026.
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