A Labrador-boxer mix named Hazel has been returned to a shelter in Arizona twice after adoption due to unrealistic expectations and her high energy. Behavioral issues and mismatched expectations often lead to dogs being returned to shelters, according to studies. Hazel is friendly and energetic, making her suitable for an active family seeking a playful pet.
Key Facts
Hazel is a Labrador-boxer mix found as a stray and is now at a no-kill shelter in Tempe, Arizona.
She was adopted and returned to the shelter twice because of unrealistic expectations and her high energy.
Hazel is two years old, likes to train, and is motivated by treats and affection.
She is friendly with other dogs and enjoys active play like wrestling and jumping.
The shelter suggests Hazel would do well in an active family, possibly with children over seven years old.
Studies show that behavioral issues and unrealistic expectations are common reasons for pets being returned to shelters.
Research indicates that proper education and support for adopters can reduce the rate of returned pets.
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Three people are missing after a house fire in Brimscombe Hill, Stroud, Gloucestershire, which occurred on Boxing Day. Emergency services responded around 03:00 GMT, and one person was hospitalized, but their condition is unknown. Police are investigating the cause of the fire, and a cordon remains in place.
Key Facts
Three people are missing following a house fire in Stroud, Gloucestershire.
The fire happened on Boxing Day early in the morning.
Emergency services were called at around 03:00 GMT.
One person escaped the fire and was taken to the hospital; their current condition is not known.
Police continue to investigate, and a cordon is still around the property.
The cause of the fire has not been determined yet.
Local MP and councilors have expressed support for those affected.
Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service prevented the fire from spreading to nearby homes, but the house was significantly damaged.
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Italian police arrested nine people accused of raising about €7 million for Hamas over two years. The money, meant for humanitarian aid, was allegedly funneled to the group through a complex fundraising system. Authorities have seized more than €8 million in assets linked to the investigation.
Key Facts
Italian police arrested nine individuals for reportedly raising €7 million for Hamas.
The funds were collected as supposed humanitarian aid for Palestinians but were redirected to Hamas.
Police seized over €8 million in assets related to the case.
The arrests were part of a joint effort by Italy's counter-terror and financial police.
The investigation started after an October 2023 Hamas attack in southern Israel.
The fundraising system had a headquarters in Genoa and branches in Milan.
More than 71% of the collected funds reportedly supported Hamas's military activities.
Among those arrested is Mohammad Hannoun, president of the Palestinian Association in Italy.
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At least 15 people died and 19 were hurt when a bus fell into a deep ravine on the Inter-American Highway in western Guatemala. The exact cause of the accident is unknown, but the area, known for its difficult terrain and frequent fog, may have contributed.
Key Facts
The accident happened on the Inter-American Highway in western Guatemala.
15 people died, including 11 men, three women, and a minor.
19 people were injured and taken to nearby hospitals.
The crash site is between kilometers 172 and 174, called "Alaska Peak" for its rugged terrain.
Dense fog commonly reduces visibility on this route.
The bus was traveling from Guatemala City to San Marcos.
The bus fell into a ravine about 75 meters (250 feet) deep.
The cause of the accident is still unknown.
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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced $1.8 billion in aid for Ukraine during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zelensky was on his way to meet U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss peace talks amid ongoing conflict with Russia. Russia recently attacked Kyiv with missiles and drones, escalating the tension.
Key Facts
Canada will provide Ukraine with $1.8 billion in economic aid.
The aid is aimed at helping Ukraine get support from the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.
Russia launched a major attack on Kyiv, killing at least one person and injuring 27 others.
President Zelensky is traveling to the U.S. for talks with President Trump about the conflict.
The meeting between Trump and Zelensky focuses on security guarantees and territorial issues.
Russia used various weapons, including hypersonic missiles and drones, in its latest attack on Ukraine.
Poland responded to Russia's actions by scrambling fighter jets and closing some airports temporarily.
Zelensky aims to negotiate for peace but insists on demilitarizing conflict areas with international oversight.
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African regional organizations rejected Israel's recognition of Somaliland as an independent nation. Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has not been recognized by any other country until now. African and other international bodies emphasize that Somaliland remains a part of Somalia.
Key Facts
Israel recognized Somaliland as an independent nation, which is the first recognition by any country in over 30 years.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not been internationally recognized.
The African Union and the East African governing body IGAD both rejected Israel's recognition of Somaliland.
The African Union Chairperson stated that attempts to undermine Somalia's sovereignty threaten peace and stability in Africa.
Somalia's federal government rejected Israel's decision, reaffirming Somaliland as part of Somalia.
Egypt and Turkey also criticized Israel's move, calling it unlawful and destabilizing.
Israel signed a joint declaration with Somaliland in the context of the Abraham Accords.
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A private jet crash in Turkiye has resulted in the death of Libya's army chief, Mohammed Ali Ahmed al-Haddad, and seven others. Turkish and Libyan officials are investigating the crash, focusing on technical factors, flight data, and crew activities, with support from French aviation investigators.
Key Facts
A private jet crashed near Ankara, Turkiye, killing Libya’s army chief and seven others.
The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office is leading the investigation.
French aviation investigators are participating in the probe.
The jet reported an electrical issue 16 minutes after takeoff and tried to return to the airport.
Wreckage, including "black boxes," has been collected for analysis.
Investigators are examining flight recordings, radar data, and maintenance logs.
The investigation may expand if structural or design flaws are found.
The crash is considered an international case due to its multinational aspects.
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A rescue dog named Muffin, who spent over eight years in a kennel without going outside, has found a new loving home. After being fostered and later adopted by MJ Smith and her husband, Muffin is slowly adjusting to her new life and experiencing many firsts, despite her past trauma.
Key Facts
Muffin is a Bichon Frise dog.
She spent over eight years in a kennel before being fostered.
Her new owner, MJ Smith, says Muffin came from a puppy mill, a place where dogs are bred in poor conditions.
Muffin started experiencing new things like peanut butter, ice cream, and snow for the first time.
Despite progress, Muffin still has trauma-related behaviors but is slowly becoming more playful.
Her new family officially adopted her in August, after fostering her for several months.
Muffin is nervous around cameras and still has nightmares, but sometimes wags her tail in her sleep, indicating happier dreams.
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Israeli forces conducted a large military operation in the town of Qabatiya in the West Bank. They imposed a curfew, arrested many residents, and turned some homes into temporary military bases. The operations are linked to a suspect from Qabatiya alleged to have attacked in northern Israel.
Key Facts
Israeli forces carried out mass arrests in Qabatiya, a town in the West Bank.
They forced many families from their homes and used some houses as military bases.
The town is under a full curfew, as reported by Israel’s Army Radio.
The operation follows orders from Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz.
Israeli troops, including border police and Shin Bet members, deployed in Qabatiya.
The military aims to arrest suspects and locate weapons in the area.
Similar raids occurred in other West Bank areas like Ramallah and Hebron.
As of December 1, 2023, over 21,000 Palestinians have been arrested since October 7.
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A joint US-Syrian patrol was attacked near Palmyra, Syria, resulting in the deaths of two US soldiers and an interpreter. The attacker, linked to ISIL, was killed by Syrian forces. The incident underscores growing cooperation between the US and Syria against ISIL, with a decrease in ISIL attacks in 2025 compared to previous years.
Key Facts
A joint US-Syrian patrol was ambushed on December 13 near Palmyra, Syria.
Two US soldiers and an interpreter died in the attack, and four others were injured.
The attacker was linked to the ISIL group and was killed by Syrian forces.
US and Syrian governments are working together against ISIL.
Syria joined the US-backed coalition fighting ISIL in November.
The number of ISIL attacks in Syria has dropped significantly in 2025.
US intelligence has helped Syria stop several ISIL attacks.
Investigations are ongoing to determine more details about the attacker’s connections.
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Rescuers found a man's body in a partly submerged car in Southern California, where severe flooding from an "atmospheric river" storm affected the area. This storm caused significant damage, road closures, evacuations, and was linked to at least four deaths.
Key Facts
A man's body was found in a blue sedan in Lancaster, California, submerged due to flooding.
The incident is part of widespread flooding across California caused by an atmospheric river.
At least four deaths in California are linked to this storm.
Atmospheric rivers are narrow bands of air that carry water from the tropics and can lead to heavy rainstorms.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department and Sheriff's Department were involved in the rescue.
Flood watches were in place for the Los Angeles region, and residents were advised to avoid non-essential travel.
An investigation into the man's death found in Lancaster is still ongoing.
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Holly Ramsay, daughter of chef Gordon Ramsay, married Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty at Bath Abbey. The event included celebrity guests, and Holly is known as an influencer and mental health advocate.
Key Facts
Holly Ramsay married Adam Peaty, an Olympic gold medalist, at Bath Abbey.
Gordon Ramsay attended the event and expressed pride in his daughter's marriage.
The wedding included celebrity guests such as members of the Beckham family.
Holly Ramsay is an influencer and launched a mental health podcast called "21 & Over."
Adam Peaty met Holly through her sister Tilly during a TV show in 2021.
Holly is the second-eldest of Gordon and Tana Ramsay's six children.
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Poland, a NATO member, sent fighter jets into its airspace after Russian strikes on Ukraine. The Polish Armed Forces confirmed their action was in response to Russian long-range aviation activity. The operation ended with support from the US, Spanish, and Dutch military forces.
Key Facts
Poland, which is part of NATO, scrambled fighter jets after Russian strikes in Ukraine.
The Polish Armed Forces acted due to Russian long-range aviation attacking Ukraine.
The operation concluded with assistance from NATO allies, including the US and Spanish Air Forces.
No breach of NATO airspace was reported.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions and risks for NATO members near the conflict zone.
Russian attacks included nearly 500 drones and over 40 missiles, impacting Ukrainian cities like Kyiv.
Kyiv faced power and heating outages in freezing temperatures due to the strikes.
Ukrainian President Zelensky emphasized the need for sufficient air defense and international support.
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Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to a new ceasefire after previous agreements failed, leading to renewed fighting along their disputed border. The deal involves commitments to joint demining efforts, the return of soldiers, and measures to stop the spread of false information. The agreement was signed after prompted peace talks, involving international mediation including efforts from President Donald Trump.
Key Facts
Thailand and Cambodia signed a new ceasefire agreement after previous deals failed.
The border dispute involves a 500-mile stretch marked during French colonial rule.
Fighting in July raised concerns, prompting Malaysia and the U.S. to push for peace talks.
The latest agreement includes a 72-hour peace period before further actions start.
Thailand must return 18 Cambodian soldiers per the new deal.
The agreement discourages the use of land mines and calls for joint demining.
The countries agree to eliminate false information and resume border marking measures.
Both nations have reported casualties from the recent conflicts, with claims of dozens dead.
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Dr. Hussam Abu Safia has been held in an Israeli prison for a year without charges or trial. His detention and deteriorating health conditions have raised international concerns about the treatment of medical personnel in conflict zones. Abu Safia's family, who fled Gaza, continue to advocate for his release as he faces harsh conditions in detention.
Key Facts
Dr. Hussam Abu Safia is 52 years old and has been held in an Israeli prison for one year.
He has not been formally charged or tried for any crime.
He was known for his role as the director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza.
Abu Safia is held under a law that allows detention without a standard trial, and he cannot see the evidence against him.
His health is declining, with significant weight loss and various medical issues like an irregular heartbeat and high blood pressure.
His family, who moved to Kazakhstan, is worried about his well-being and advocates for his release.
Israel detained him after surrounding the hospital he worked at during an ongoing conflict.
He was reportedly mistreated during transfers between different Israeli prisons.
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Four hikers were found dead in the Vardousia Mountains in Greece after being caught in an avalanche. The search for the three men and one woman began when they went missing on Christmas Day, with their bodies discovered by rescue teams on a steep slope.
Key Facts
Four hikers went missing on Christmas Day in Greece's Vardousia Mountains.
They were found dead after an avalanche buried them under snow.
The bodies were located on a steep slope near Korakas peak at about 2,000 meters altitude.
The hikers began their climb in good weather, but conditions worsened.
A friend raised the alarm when the hikers did not return as expected.
Rescue efforts faced challenges due to low temperatures and poor visibility.
The Vardousia Mountains are difficult to climb, especially in winter.
A helicopter was requested to assist with recovering the bodies if weather permits.
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Scientists have discovered that the deep-sea creature Alicella gigantea, once thought to be rare, is actually widespread, inhabiting nearly 59% of the world's ocean floor. Research shows this large crustacean lives in deep ocean zones across the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, suggesting it can disperse widely and adapt to extreme environments.
Key Facts
Alicella gigantea is also known as the "supergiant amphipod."
The species can grow up to 34 centimeters (13.4 inches) long.
Scientists originally believed Alicella gigantea was rare due to infrequent sightings.
A new study compiled 195 records from 75 locations, showing the species is widespread in deep ocean zones.
Researchers found low genetic differences among global populations, indicating a single species.
Modern techniques like deep-sea landers and genetic sequencing helped reveal this widespread presence.
The study highlights the importance of deep-sea exploration for understanding biodiversity and species conservation.
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A chain-reaction crash involving over 50 vehicles occurred on a highway in central Japan, resulting in two deaths and 26 injuries. The accident was triggered by a collision between two trucks and worsened by icy road conditions due to a snowstorm. Authorities are investigating road damage caused by the accident, and part of the highway remains closed.
Key Facts
The pile-up took place on the Kan-etsu Expressway in Gunma prefecture.
Two people died, including a 77-year-old woman from Tokyo.
A crash between two trucks caused a chain reaction that set at least 10 vehicles on fire.
There were 26 injuries reported: 5 serious and 21 minor.
The accident occurred during a snowstorm, and icy roads likely contributed.
It took about seven and a half hours for emergency services to put out the fire.
A section of the highway remains closed, with work ongoing to clear vehicles.
Nexco, the road operator, is checking for damage from the fire and advises against using the highway.
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A minimalist named Gulnaz Abdrakhmanova, also known as @practical.minimalist on Instagram, has shared a list of 10 everyday items she no longer needs to maintain an organized home. She believes that having fewer possessions leads to a more peaceful life. Her minimalist approach aligns with recent research suggesting that clutter affects how the brain processes information.
Key Facts
Gulnaz Abdrakhmanova is a minimalist who promotes a lifestyle of using fewer items daily.
She shared a list of 10 items she no longer needs, such as extra dishes and duplicate gadgets.
Abdrakhmanova suggests that fewer items lead to a calmer household.
She moved from Kyrgyzstan to Canada with only four suitcases, which began her minimalist journey.
Research from Yale University shows that visual clutter can disrupt how information flows in the brain.
The study involved tracking brain activity in monkeys, which have vision similar to humans.
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