Three police officers were killed and nine others wounded in a shootout with ISIS operatives in northwestern Turkey. Six ISIS fighters also died during an operation in Yalova Province. Following the incident, Turkish authorities imposed a ban on media broadcasts about the operation.
Key Facts
Three police officers died, and nine others were injured in the fight with ISIS in northwestern Turkey.
Six ISIS fighters were killed in the Yalova Province operation.
The attack took place southeast of Istanbul.
Turkish media identified the slain officers as İlker Pehlivan, Turgut Külünk, and Yasin Koçyiğit.
Eight police officers and a security guard were injured during the operation.
Five women and six children were evacuated from the scene.
A ban on media broadcasts regarding the operation was put in place by local courts in Yalova.
Over 100 people were arrested last week in Turkey in connection with suspected plans for ISIS attacks.
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A rise in the number of patients needing end-of-life care in hospitals is causing concern among NHS leaders in Sussex, UK. This situation could impact the availability of treatment for other patients, especially during the busy winter months. Some patients are receiving end-of-life care in emergency department corridors due to a lack of available beds.
Key Facts
NHS leaders in Sussex are worried about a growing number of end-of-life patients in hospitals.
This issue may affect the availability of treatment for other patients this winter.
The situation was described during a meeting with NHS health leaders in Sussex.
Some patients needing end-of-life care are being treated in A&E corridors.
Local hospices are struggling to provide enough beds for these patients.
Emergency care services in Sussex are facing significant pressure.
There is a concern about patients who would prefer to be at home being treated in hospital corridors.
Delays in discharging patients due to a lack of community care services contribute to the problem.
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In 2025, Israel conducted a large number of military attacks across various countries and regions. According to conflict monitoring data, Israel attacked countries including Palestine, Iran, Lebanon, Qatar, Syria, and Yemen, as well as targeted ships in the waters of Tunisia, Malta, and Greece. The Gaza Strip experienced the highest number of attacks and casualties.
Key Facts
Israel attacked at least six countries in 2025: Palestine, Iran, Lebanon, Qatar, Syria, and Yemen.
Israeli military actions also targeted aid ships in Tunisian, Maltese, and Greek waters.
Between January 1 and December 5, 2025, Israel conducted 10,631 attacks, as reported by ACLED.
The Gaza Strip saw the most intense attacks, with over 25,000 deaths and at least 62,000 injuries this year.
A ceasefire in Gaza, effective from October 10, was violated by Israel hundreds of times.
ACLED data shows Israel attacked: Gaza and the West Bank 8,332 times, Lebanon 1,653 times, Iran 379 times, Syria 207 times, Yemen 48 times, Qatar once, and ships in Tunisian waters twice, Maltese and Greek waters once.
These numbers may be undercounts due to reporting challenges in conflict areas.
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A five-year-old boy died at a ski resort in Japan after his arm got caught in a travelator, a moving walkway. Despite having a safety mechanism, the travelator did not stop until the emergency button was pressed by the boy's mother. Police are investigating the incident for any possible negligence in the travelator's design or maintenance.
Key Facts
A five-year-old boy died after his arm got trapped in a travelator at a ski resort in Hokkaido, Japan.
The incident occurred as the boy was stepping off the travelator.
The travelator's safety mechanism failed to activate, stopping only when the emergency button was used.
Rescue workers freed the boy after 40 minutes, but he was later declared dead at a hospital.
The travelator, installed six years ago, is 30 meters long and 60 centimeters wide, without handrails.
Police are investigating to see if there was any professional negligence involved.
Other visitors have reported stumbling on the travelator, calling it "a little scary."
The ski resort apologized and promised to take measures to prevent similar incidents.
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Claudia Winkleman has hinted at exciting changes in the upcoming series of "The Traitors." A trailer showed a new red cloak, which has led fans to speculate about what it might mean for the show's format. The details will be revealed when the new series starts on New Year's Day.
Key Facts
Claudia Winkleman announced "extraordinary" changes for the new series of "The Traitors."
A trailer showed a figure wearing a red cloak, different from the usual green.
The new series will premiere at 20:00 GMT on New Year's Day.
Fans are speculating about the significance of the red cloak.
The show's format has previously had Winkleman selecting three traitors among contestants.
The first series of "The Celebrity Traitors" was viewed by over 15 million people.
The upcoming civilian series and the celebrity spin-off were filmed at the same time.
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In 2025, water levels at Lake Powell, one of the largest reservoirs in the U.S., showed significant fluctuations. The levels began at 3566.75 feet in January and ended at 3543.26 feet in November, with the reservoir only 27% full by December. New operating rules for the reservoir are being discussed as the current guidelines will expire in 2026.
Key Facts
Lake Powell is a key reservoir that provides water to several states and parts of Mexico.
Lake Powell can store over 24 million acre-feet of water.
In 2025, the reservoir's highest recorded level was 3566.75 feet in January.
By December 21, the water level was about 6.5 million acre-feet, or 27% full.
Talks are taking place to set new rules for water management post-2026.
The 2007 Operating Guidelines for Lake Powell and Lake Mead will end in 2026.
Sharon Megdal from the University of Arizona stated that the water storage situation is currently poor.
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The U.S. Department of State updates travel advisories for 2026, listing countries as safe, risky, or dangerous for American travelers. The advisories help Americans decide on travel plans by highlighting safety levels and associated risks in different countries. Countries fall into four levels, from safe (Level 1) to "do not travel" (Level 4).
Key Facts
The State Department provides travel advisories to inform Americans about safety levels in countries worldwide.
There are four advisory levels: Level 1 is the safest, while Level 4 advises Americans not to travel at all.
Level 1 countries, deemed safe, include Australia, Canada, Japan, and Switzerland, among others.
Under Level 2, countries considered riskier require increased caution and include France, Italy, China, and the United Kingdom.
Level 3 countries, such as Nepal and Trinidad and Tobago, suggest that Americans reconsider traveling there.
Level 4 countries, recommended as unsafe, include Afghanistan, Libya, Russia, and Ukraine.
Advisories consider factors like crime, terrorism, health services, and natural disasters.
The list could change as the State Department updates these advisories regularly.
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A fire in a nursing home on Sulawesi island, Indonesia, killed 16 people and injured three others. The fire broke out in the evening, and authorities evacuated 12 unhurt people to a hospital.
Key Facts
A fire occurred at the Werdha Damai retirement home in Manado, Sulawesi.
16 people died, and three people had burn injuries.
Firefighters received the report of the fire at 8:31pm local time on Sunday.
Many of the victims were found inside their rooms.
12 people were evacuated safely and taken to a local hospital.
Local TV showed the fire engulfing the building, and locals helped with evacuation.
This fire follows another recent deadly fire in Jakarta that killed at least 22 people.
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President Trump faced criticism after stating that Russia wants Ukraine to succeed and will help rebuild Ukraine after a peace deal. He made these remarks after talking with Russian President Putin and meeting Ukrainian President Zelensky. The comments come amid ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine and discussions about a possible peace agreement.
Key Facts
President Trump claimed that Russia wants Ukraine to succeed, following communication with Russian and Ukrainian leaders.
Trump mentioned Russia could assist Ukraine with reconstruction and provide low-cost energy after a peace deal.
Russia's military actions have recently targeted Ukraine's energy systems, causing power outages.
Ukraine and its allies are worried about a U.S.-brokered peace deal possibly favoring Russia.
Russia has claimed to annex several Ukrainian regions, including Donetsk and Luhansk.
Kyiv insists it will not give up any territory and hopes to reclaim regions taken by Russia.
Discussions about a peace plan include international monitoring and a potential demilitarized zone.
Russia has gained control over parts of Eastern Ukraine amidst ongoing conflicts.
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A tornado hit several areas in central Illinois, damaging homes and buildings, especially in Mount Zion, Blue Mound, and Long Creek. Emergency crews are working on fixing power outages and providing shelter to those affected as no injuries have been reported.
Key Facts
A tornado hit near Blue Mound in central Illinois at 3:05 p.m. on Sunday.
A second tornado touched down in Long Creek five minutes later.
In Mount Zion, two homes lost their roofs while people and pets were inside, but no injuries were reported.
Up to a dozen homes were destroyed in Long Creek.
High winds also caused damage in the Pontiac area and at a school gymnasium in Forrest, Illinois.
More than 2,400 residents in the Decatur area lost power.
Emergency crews and the American Red Cross are helping those displaced by the tornado.
Local authorities are clearing debris and restoring power to affected areas.
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China has improved its missile capabilities, increasing both the number of missiles and their launchers as part of its military expansion. The U.S. Pentagon report highlighted concerns that these advancements pose a growing threat to U.S. security and influence, particularly in the western Pacific region. China's Defense Ministry states the build-up is to protect its sovereignty and security interests.
Key Facts
China has increased its number of missiles and missile launchers, enhancing its long-range strike abilities.
The Pentagon report says China's military build-up threatens U.S. security, especially in the western Pacific.
China claims its missile development is part of a defensive strategy and modernization efforts.
President Xi Jinping aims for a "world-class" military by 2049.
The Chinese intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) force includes 400 missiles and 550 launchers.
The intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) fleet now has 550 missiles and 300 launchers.
China's missile upgrades include types that can carry both nuclear and conventional warheads.
Advanced missile systems, like the DF-26, can strike U.S. territories in the Pacific, such as Guam.
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A cat owner shared a video on Reddit showing their relationship with a feral cat named Dennis, which has attracted significant interest. The owner built a special house for Dennis, who still prefers to keep a safe distance, showing the owner's respect for Dennis's boundaries.
Key Facts
The cat is named Dennis and was first noticed by the owner about a year ago.
Dennis lives in an outhouse on the owner's property.
The owner created a heated shelter for Dennis using materials like 2x4s, plywood, and insulation.
A camera inside the shelter helps the owner check on Dennis without disturbing him.
Despite regular feeding, Dennis is still wary, preferring not to get too close to the owner.
The video has received more than 35,000 upvotes on Reddit.
Feral cats like Dennis are often unsocialized and behave like wild animals.
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A train carrying 250 people derailed in southern Mexico, killing 13 people and injuring 98 others. The accident occurred near the town of Nizanda as the train, which operates between the states of Oaxaca and Veracruz, was navigating a curve. Mexican officials are investigating the cause of the derailment and are working to assist affected families.
Key Facts
The train derailment happened in southern Mexico near Nizanda.
13 people died, and 98 others were injured in the accident.
The train was carrying nine crew members and 241 passengers.
Of the injured, 36 people are still receiving medical treatment, with at least five in serious condition.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum ordered senior officials to assist at the site.
The Attorney General's Office is investigating to find out why the train derailed.
Difficult terrain is complicating rescue efforts at the accident site.
The rail line was a major project started under former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador to boost trade in the region.
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Egyptian democracy activist Alaa Abdel Fattah apologized for past tweets that have resurfaced, causing calls for his deportation from the UK. The Conservative and Reform UK leaders, along with some Labour MPs, are questioning his presence in the UK due to offensive tweets. The UK Foreign Office, which helped secure his release from Egypt, condemned his posts but noted the complexities of revoking citizenship.
Key Facts
Alaa Abdel Fattah is an Egyptian activist and a British-Egyptian dual national.
He recently arrived in the UK after being released from an Egyptian jail.
Some of his old tweets have caused controversy, leading to calls for his deportation.
UK officials helped secure his release, prioritizing family reunification.
Several UK political leaders have condemned his tweets, calling them offensive.
His British citizenship was granted in December 2021 under international law obligations.
UK rules require that revoking citizenship must not leave a person stateless.
The UK Foreign Office deems some of Fattah's posts "abhorrent."
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A woman in Somalia is facing execution after being found guilty of murdering a 14-year-old girl named Saabirin Saylaan, who was in her care. This case has sparked widespread protests and calls for stronger child protection laws in Somalia. It highlights the challenges in reporting and addressing child abuse within families in the country.
Key Facts
Saabirin Saylaan, a 14-year-old girl, was murdered, leading to protests and calls for better child protection in Somalia.
The woman convicted of the murder, Hodan Mohamud Diiriye, is facing execution, while her husband received a lighter sentence.
Saabirin was living with Diiriye's family for two months and faced routine physical abuse during that time.
Police found evidence of violence on Diiriye’s phone, including videos and audio recordings.
Public outrage over the case led to protests in Galkayo, resulting in clashes with police and the death of a young man.
The trial was publicly broadcast on social media to maintain public trust in the legal process.
Child abuse in Somalia often goes unreported, especially within extended families, where issues are traditionally resolved without state interference.
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A train in Mexico derailed between Oaxaca and Veracruz on December 28, killing 13 people and injuring 98. The train accident happened during a busy travel time as many people were traveling for New Year celebrations. Mexican authorities are investigating the cause of the derailment.
Key Facts
The train accident happened on December 28 near the town of Nizanda in Oaxaca, Mexico.
The derailment killed 13 people and injured 98, with five people seriously injured.
The train was traveling a 180-mile route from Salina Cruz to Coatzacoalcos.
The train was carrying 241 passengers and nine crew members at the time of the accident.
The Interoceanic Train, which recently started operation in 2023, connects southeastern Mexico to the Gulf Coast.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and state Governor Salomon Jara are coordinating emergency response efforts.
The Mexican Attorney General’s Office has started an investigation into the derailment’s cause.
Emergency responders and photos from the scene show train carriages toppled and hanging off a cliff.
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Footage from the Chinese military shows a warship firing the YJ-20 missile, designed to sink enemy ships. This is part of China's strategy to strengthen its military capabilities, especially regarding U.S. naval presence in the western Pacific.
Key Facts
The Chinese military released footage of a warship firing the YJ-20 anti-ship missile.
The YJ-20 can maneuver at hypersonic speeds, making it hard to intercept.
The footage was of a Type 055 destroyer carrying out a "finalization test" of the missile.
At least eight Type 055 destroyers, which can carry 112 missiles each, are in service since 2023.
The Pentagon reports these Chinese capabilities as a way to challenge U.S. military involvement in regional conflicts.
The footage shows the first official visual of a YJ-20 missile being launched from a warship.
China aims to prevent U.S. military movements in the Pacific with such advanced missiles.
The Pentagon noted the People's Liberation Army's potential for effective kinetic strikes within 1,500-2,000 nautical miles from China.
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China is holding military drills around Taiwan to warn against what it sees as "separatist forces" seeking independence. The exercises involve various branches of the military and come after the U.S. announced a large arms sale to Taiwan. Taiwan has criticized the drills and has put its forces on high alert in response.
Key Facts
China announced military drills simulating the takeover of key areas around Taiwan.
The drills involve the army, navy, air force, and rocket force and include live-fire exercises.
This action follows a recent U.S. announcement of an $11 billion weapons package for Taiwan.
Taiwan and its president have reacted by criticizing the drills and preparing their own military defenses.
The Chinese military's statement warned against attempts at "Taiwan independence".
Beijing considers Taiwan a part of its territory, while Taiwan views itself as a sovereign nation.
China has conducted increased military exercises around Taiwan since 2022.
The drills are the first under the new commander of China's Eastern Theater Command, Yang Zhibin.
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President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida to discuss ending the conflict with Russia. A major roadblock, the Donbas issue, remains unresolved, but Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed that a temporary ceasefire could prolong the war.
Key Facts
President Trump met with Ukrainian President Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago to discuss the conflict in Ukraine.
The main unresolved issue is the Donbas region, which blocks a complete peace agreement.
Trump stated that resolving the Donbas issue is difficult but progress is being made.
Ukrainians might vote on the peace plan through parliament or a national referendum.
Trump plans to host Zelensky with NATO and European leaders in January for further talks.
Trump and Putin agreed that a temporary ceasefire might extend the conflict.
Russia has argued against a ceasefire, suggesting Ukraine could use it to regroup.
A ceasefire is necessary for Ukraine to hold a referendum on the Donbas issue.
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The article discusses the significant global conflicts occurring in 2025, highlighting heightened tensions in Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan. Ukraine faces potential escalation into a world war with Russia accused of various hostile actions. The piece also mentions President Donald Trump’s involvement in brokering a ceasefire in Gaza.
Key Facts
John Simpson is a BBC world affairs editor with experience reporting on over 40 wars.
Ukraine's President has warned about the risk of the conflict in Ukraine expanding into a world war.
Western countries are concerned about Russia cutting undersea cables, threatening electronic communication.
Russia is accused of using drones and hacking to test NATO defenses and disrupt services.
In 2018, a poisoning incident in the UK involving a former Russian agent was linked to high Russian authorities.
In Gaza, the conflict has resulted in over 70,000 Palestinian deaths and the negotiation of a ceasefire by President Trump.
Sudan is experiencing a severe civil war with over 150,000 deaths and 12 million displaced.
President Trump has claimed credit for reducing violence in Gaza through his ceasefire negotiations.
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