Christmas celebrations resumed in Bethlehem for the first time in two years, combining festive traditions with reminders of ongoing conflict. Amid these events, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem highlighted themes of peace and resilience despite recent hardships in the region.
Key Facts
Christmas celebrations returned to Bethlehem after a two-year pause.
The pause was due to solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid conflict.
Bethlehem is believed to be the birthplace of Jesus and a key Christian site.
Israeli military actions and raids continue in the West Bank.
Pierbattista Pizzaballa, a Catholic leader, expressed hope and resilience.
Approximately 1,500 people attended the celebrations in Bethlehem.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict affects Christian communities in the region.
A ceasefire in Gaza began in October but tensions remain high.
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The United States is focusing on economic pressure rather than military force against Venezuela, primarily targeting Venezuelan oil through sanctions. President Trump has deployed a large number of US troops to the Caribbean, raising concerns about potential conflict, but the emphasis is on using economic tactics first. The US Coast Guard is tasked with enforcing these sanctions, which some see as a way to avoid escalating into war.
Key Facts
The US plans to apply economic pressure on Venezuela, especially concerning its oil, instead of using military force.
The White House has directed the military to prioritize enforcing a "quarantine" on Venezuelan oil.
President Trump has deployed 15,000 US troops and military equipment to the Caribbean region.
This deployment is the largest US military presence in the Caribbean in decades.
The US has blocked US-sanctioned oil tankers heading to and from Venezuela following a "total and complete blockade" order.
Oil is crucial for Venezuela's economy, and US sanctions on its oil sector increased significantly in 2019.
The US Coast Guard, a civilian law enforcement agency, is involved in enforcing sanctions, which is a less aggressive approach than using military forces.
The US has conducted airstrikes on boats in the Caribbean suspected of transporting drugs, under President Trump's directive.
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Poland sent fighter jets to intercept a Russian plane near its border. The plane was flying over the Baltic Sea, close to Polish airspace, on Christmas morning. The Polish military had also noted unidentified objects from Belarus entering its airspace earlier.
Key Facts
Poland scrambled fighter jets to intercept a Russian reconnaissance plane.
The incident occurred near Polish borders over the Baltic Sea.
This action took place on Christmas morning.
Polish military observed the Russian plane flying over international waters.
Earlier, on Christmas Eve, Poland detected unidentified objects from Belarus entering its airspace.
The unidentified objects were identified by the Polish military as "smuggling balloons."
Smuggling balloons are often used by criminal groups to transport contraband.
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Tarique Rahman, leader of Bangladesh's opposition party BNP, has returned to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile. Rahman arrived in Dhaka as the country prepares for a general election and aims to become the next Prime Minister. His return is significant due to political changes in Bangladesh, including the removal of former leader Sheikh Hasina from power.
Key Facts
Tarique Rahman is the leader of Bangladesh's opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
Rahman lived in London for 17 years and returned to Bangladesh now that legal barriers against him have been lifted.
He aims to become the Prime Minister in the upcoming general election in February.
Thousands of supporters greeted him in Dhaka with flags, banners, and slogans.
Rahman's return coincides with a political shift after Sheikh Hasina's government was ousted in 2024.
Rahman's mother, Khaleda Zia, is a former Prime Minister and is currently seriously ill.
An interim government led by Muhammad Yunus is overseeing the upcoming election.
Political tension exists in Bangladesh, with concerns over media attacks and possible unrest during the elections.
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A dog named Loca was found abandoned behind a dumpster in Richmond, Virginia, in freezing temperatures. She was lying on a small blanket with some food beside her. Loca is now safe at an animal shelter and looking for a new home.
Key Facts
Loca, a pit bull mix, was found on December 12 in Richmond, Virginia.
She was abandoned behind a dumpster with only a small blanket and a little food.
Richmond Animal Care & Control is caring for Loca and seeking a new home for her.
Loca is described as happy and good with other pets.
Animal abandonment occurs year-round, not just at specific times.
In early 2025, U.S. shelters took in about 2.8 million animals, with stray animals making up the majority.
Shelters face a capacity gap, with more animals arriving than leaving in the first half of 2025.
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Princess Kate and her daughter Princess Charlotte performed a piano duet at a Christmas carol service. The duet, which was shared online, showed the pair playing a song by composer Erland Cooper. Fans praised the performance and expressed their appreciation on social media.
Key Facts
Princess Kate and Princess Charlotte played a piano duet at a Christmas carol service.
The duet was of the song "Holm Sound" by Erland Cooper.
They played the piece at Windsor Castle, not during the live service at Westminster Abbey.
Kate used only her left hand, and Charlotte used only her right.
The video included a voice message from Kate about "simple acts of care."
Some people critiqued the message for not mentioning Christianity directly.
Princess Kate revealed earlier in the year she is in remission from cancer.
Kate and William have reportedly become more religious following her diagnosis.
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Palestinian Christians in Bethlehem gathered for Christmas at the Church of the Nativity, in a city that has restored its festive events. Despite the celebrations, Palestinian Christians face challenges due to Israeli military occupation, economic difficulties, and violence. The number of Palestinian Christians has declined over the years due to these conditions.
Key Facts
Palestinian Christians celebrated Christmas at the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem for the first time since 2023.
Bethlehem's festivities were restored after a period of silence amid ongoing conflict.
Christians in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza number under 50,000, down from 12 percent of the population in the early 20th century.
Economic hardships and violence have led many Palestinian Christians to leave the region.
From January 2024 to September 2025, 201 incidents of violence against Christians were documented, mainly in Jerusalem's Old City.
Israeli checkpoints, settlements, and the separation wall impact the daily lives of Palestinian Christians.
The largest concentrations of Christians in the West Bank are in Bethlehem, Ramallah, and East Jerusalem.
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The article discusses large infrastructure projects being built around the world in 2026. These include NEOM in Saudi Arabia, California's high-speed rail project, King Abdullah Economic City, and the Lower Thames Crossing in the UK.
Key Facts
NEOM is a massive project in Saudi Arabia costing about $9 trillion and includes plans for a linear city called The Line.
California's high-speed rail aims to connect key areas and has faced budget increases from $33 billion to over $135 billion.
King Abdullah Economic City in Saudi Arabia, costing around $100 billion, has developed a large port and a special economic zone.
The Lower Thames Crossing in the UK is a large road tunnel project expected to open in 2032, costing roughly £10 billion ($13.3 billion).
California's rail project construction is active on a 119-mile stretch, and future work is planned to extend to 171 miles.
NEOM is part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 to diversify its economy beyond oil reliance.
King Abdullah Economic City was announced in 2005 and has seen numerous developments since, including industrial and logistics sectors.
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A TikTok video showing the growth of a Labrador puppy named Maisy has gone viral. Maisy, owned by Jessica Hanks, did not grow to the expected size for her breed but remains a beloved pet. The video has captured the attention of many dog lovers online.
Key Facts
A video of a Labrador retriever puppy named Maisy has gone viral on TikTok.
Maisy was expected to grow large, like her breed typically does, but is smaller than average.
At 16 months old, Maisy weighs 42 pounds and is about 20 inches tall, smaller than the typical size for a female Labrador.
Despite her smaller size, Maisy's personality is typical of a Labrador, being loving and friendly.
TikTok users have shared their own stories of Labrador size comparisons, making the video widely popular.
The video has amassed over 2 million views.
Maisy's story highlights that size doesn't define a pet's spirit and charm.
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A state research center in Russia reports that many Russians expect the conflict in Ukraine to end in 2026. The survey indicates growing optimism among Russians that next year will be better, partially due to hopes for a resolution of the war. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy shows openness to peace talks, while Russia continues its military operations.
Key Facts
Russian state-owned research center VTsIOM conducted a survey about expectations for the Ukraine conflict.
The survey found that most Russians think the war will end in 2026.
Seventy percent of surveyed Russians are optimistic about 2026 being more successful for Russia.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is open to withdrawing troops if Russia also pulls back and allows international monitoring.
Russia has not shown willingness to withdraw from the territories it has seized in Ukraine.
Two-thirds of Russians reportedly support peace talks, according to independent polls.
The conflict, referred to by Russia as a "special military operation," is ongoing with continued Russian military offensives.
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Annette Bammert adopted a cat named Lenny from a shelter, where he was known as the "saddest cat." After bringing him home, Lenny transformed from withdrawn and sad to confident and playful.
Key Facts
Annette Bammert adopted Lenny, a black-and-white cat, shortly after losing her senior cat, Wilma.
Lenny was known as the "saddest cat" at the shelter when Bammert first saw him.
Lenny's brother had already been adopted, and Lenny was kept alone because he didn't get along with other cats.
Initially, Lenny was very shy and hid most of the time, not allowing anyone to touch him.
Over time, with patience and consistency, Lenny became more adventurous and playful.
Lenny's appearance and behavior changed significantly, and he settled well into his new home.
Bammert shared Lenny's transformation in a video that gained over 175,000 views on Instagram.
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Pat Finn, an American actor known for roles in TV shows like Friends, Seinfeld, and The Middle, passed away at 60. He died at his home in Los Angeles after battling cancer since 2022. Finn also taught improv at the University of Colorado.
Key Facts
Pat Finn died at the age of 60 in Los Angeles.
He had been receiving treatment for cancer since 2022.
Finn acted in shows such as Friends, Seinfeld, and The Middle.
His first TV role was in The George Wendt Show in 1995.
Finn had a recurring role on Murphy Brown from 1995 to 1997.
He was part of an improv group named Beer Shark Mice and taught at the University of Colorado.
Finn's film credits include It's Complicated and Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups.
He is survived by his wife, three children, parents, and siblings.
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In 2025, President Donald Trump received several high-value gifts from various countries. These gifts were sometimes followed by significant trade or diplomatic agreements that benefited the gift-giving countries. The practice of giving such gifts is legal if they are disclosed and transferred to U.S. government ownership.
Key Facts
Qatar gifted President Trump a Boeing 747, valued at about $400 million, which led to major U.S.-Qatar aviation and defense deals.
The United Arab Emirates invested $2 billion in a digital currency tied to Trump's business, coinciding with approved advanced tech exports to the UAE.
Switzerland gave Trump a gold bar and a Rolex clock, followed by U.S. tariff reductions on Swiss goods.
President Trump received a ceremonial gold crown from South Korea, which then committed to investing $350 billion in the U.S.
Pakistan presented samples of rare earth minerals and nominated Trump for a Nobel Peace Prize as U.S. tariffs on Pakistani products were reduced.
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A man discovered his dishwasher was dull because it still had its original protective plastic film. His revelation on social media led others to find the same issue with their kitchen appliances. As more people checked their appliances, they found protective films and shared their stories online.
Key Facts
A man named Jeff Hixson discovered his dishwasher had a dull finish because of a protective plastic film.
He shared his discovery on the social media platform Threads, gaining lots of attention.
His post prompted many others to check their own appliances for similar plastic coverings.
Some people reported finding plastic films on other appliances like microwaves and TVs.
The protective plastic film is intended to prevent scratches during transport and should be removed after installation.
The post became viral as people shared their surprise and amusement over the common oversight.
The incident highlights how easy it is to overlook the protective film on new appliances.
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Fourteen countries, including Canada and the UK, have criticized Israel's approval of 19 new settlements in the West Bank. They argue these settlements are illegal under international law and could harm the ongoing ceasefire in Gaza. Israel's Finance Minister stated the settlements aim to block the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Key Facts
Fourteen countries, including Canada, the UK, and France, condemned Israel's new West Bank settlements.
The countries say these settlements are illegal under international law.
They warn the settlements could undermine a ceasefire in Gaza.
The countries reaffirm support for a peace solution between Israelis and Palestinians.
Israel's Finance Minister stated the new settlements aim to prevent a Palestinian state.
Since late 2022, Israel has approved or legalized 69 settlements.
The UN notes settlement expansion as a barrier to Israeli-Palestinian peace.
New settlements are mostly in the northeastern West Bank, an area with little prior settlement.
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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un criticized the U.S.-South Korea nuclear submarine deal, calling it a threat to regional security. Kim's remarks came as he toured a submarine production facility and oversaw missile tests. Meanwhile, North Korea continues to support Russia's military actions in Ukraine.
Key Facts
Kim Jong Un called the U.S.-South Korea submarine deal a threat to Korean Peninsula stability.
North Korea is developing a nuclear-powered submarine capable of launching missiles.
North Korea successfully tested a new missile hitting a target 200 kilometers away.
South Korea is seeking a deal with the U.S. for nuclear submarine technology.
U.S. law restricts military use of nuclear material, but South Korea might receive an exemption.
Kim Jong Un confirmed ongoing North Korean military support for Russia in Ukraine.
Russian President Putin sent a New Year’s greeting to Kim, highlighting military cooperation.
A strategic partnership treaty exists between Russia and North Korea since 2024.
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The article looks back at weather-related events captured in photographs by BBC Weather Watchers throughout 2025. Highlights include a strong UK storm, record-breaking warmth, and various storms and weather phenomena across the year. The BBC Weather Watchers program marked its 10th anniversary with these and other significant weather moments.
Key Facts
The Northern lights were visible on January 1, followed by a snow period in January.
Storm Eowyn, hitting in January, was the UK's strongest storm in 10 years with winds reaching 100 mph in Scotland.
A partial solar eclipse occurred in March across most of the UK.
Spring 2025 saw record warmth and sunshine, increasing wildfire risk due to a prolonged dry period.
Summer 2025 was the warmest on record for England, with multiple heatwaves and levels approaching 30°C on May 1.
Storm Amy caused significant wind damage in Scotland on October 4.
November brought early snow and freezing conditions in northern regions, alongside Storm Claudia causing flooding.
The BBC Weather Watchers program celebrated its 10th anniversary, showcasing photos from past events.
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The article discusses working dogs in Northern Ireland who continue their duties over the Christmas holiday. These dogs, which include an autism support dog named Jojo and police service dogs Igi and Kodi, provide important support and services without a break, even during festive times.
Key Facts
Jojo is an autism support dog for Lucia Kane, a 17-year-old from County Antrim.
Jojo helps Lucia manage stress and provides emotional support, especially during challenging times like Christmas.
Jojo recently recovered from an illness after swallowing a stone.
Police dogs Igi and Kodi, part of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, work during Christmas.
Igi is a German Shepherd patrol dog, used to address various incidents and help defuse tense situations.
Kodi, a Cocker Spaniel, is trained as a search dog for the police.
Both police dogs will take rest days after their Christmas duties, when they will receive gifts and relaxation time.
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People around the world are celebrating Christmas in various ways. Events include skiing Santas in the U.S., Christmas Mass with Pope Leo XIV in Italy, and meat auctions in London, among other festivities in places like Ukraine, China, and Pakistan.
Key Facts
In Alexandria, Virginia, people enjoy an event with Santas water skiing.
Pope Leo XIV led a Christmas Eve Mass at the Vatican in Italy.
London's Smithfield meat market held a traditional Christmas Eve meat auction.
Worshippers in Ukraine, China, and Pakistan attended Christmas Eve services at their local churches.
Many Christians celebrate Christmas on December 25, but Orthodox Christians often celebrate on January 7.
Christmas celebrations also took place in Bethlehem, considered the birthplace of Jesus.
Various other places, like Kenya and Sri Lanka, held Christmas Eve masses and decorations.
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The article lists 12 books that are recommended for reading in 2026. These titles include the conclusion to popular series and new works by well-known authors, covering various genres and themes. Some of the books involve historical narratives, contemporary issues, and personal tales.
Key Facts
"Heartstopper Volume 6" by Alice Oseman will be released on July 2, 2026, as the final part of a graphic novel series.
Maggie O'Farrell's new novel "Land" is set to release on June 2 and is inspired by her family history.
Other notable upcoming novels include works by Yann Martel, Julian Barnes, Colm Toibin, George Saunders, Ali Smith, Elizabeth Strout, Douglas Stuart, Anne Tyler, and the late Mario Vargas Losa.
Deepa Anappara's book "The Last of Earth" will come out on February 12 and is set in Tibet, featuring an English explorer and an Indian teacher during the British Empire's expansion.
Josh Silver's debut adult fiction "Fruit Fly" is about the unexpected meeting of a wealthy author and a sex worker.
The selected books span a variety of topics, including historical settings, personal relationships, and adventure tales.
"The Last of Earth" by Deepa Anappara features themes of espionage and survival in a historical context.
"Fruit Fly" by Josh Silver includes elements of humor and drama within a contemporary setting.
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