Two bookstores cancelled public readings by Palestinian-American author Jenan Matari. She planned to read from her new children's book but will no longer hold these events.
Key Facts
Jenan Matari is a Palestinian-American author.
Her debut children's book was the focus of the planned readings.
Two bookstores decided to cancel the scheduled readings.
The events were meant to promote her book.
The reasons for the cancellations were not detailed in the summary.
The events were planned to be public readings.
The cancellation was personally significant for the author.
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The relationship between the United States and Venezuela has become more tense due to reports of possible U.S. military actions in Venezuela and accusations of terrorism against a group allegedly linked to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The U.S. has been increasing its pressure on Venezuela since President Donald Trump's second term began in January 2025, reversing policies initiated by the previous U.S. administration. Relations have been strained further by military actions and sanctions against Venezuela, affecting air travel and triggering military responses.
Key Facts
The U.S. labeled Venezuela's “Cartel de los Soles” a terrorist group, claiming it is led by President Maduro.
U.S. provided no evidence for its claim against “Cartel de los Soles,” a term used for corrupt officials, not an organized group.
The U.S. FAA issued a warning about dangers in Venezuelan airspace, leading airlines to cancel flights.
President Trump authorized CIA operations in Venezuela, marking a shift from the previous administration's approach.
Tensions have roots in the history of U.S. interventions and policies dating back to Hugo Chavez's rise to power in 1999.
Since Trump returned to the White House in 2025, he revoked policies protecting Venezuelans in the U.S. from deportation.
Trump has imposed tariffs on countries buying Venezuelan oil and doubled the reward for Maduro's capture.
In November 2025, Venezuela conducted military drills in response to U.S. military deployments near South America.
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Graham Linehan, a comedy writer, was found not guilty of harassing a trans activist online, but guilty of damaging her phone. He knocked the phone from her hand at an event, and the court decided this was a crime. He argued that his actions were a reaction to pressure from trans activists due to his views on gender identity.
Key Facts
Graham Linehan is known for co-creating the show "Father Ted."
A court cleared him of harassing a trans activist named Sophia Brooks online.
Linehan was found guilty of criminal damage for knocking Brooks' phone out of her hand.
The incident happened outside a conference in October of a previous year.
Linehan claimed his social media actions were to expose tactics by trans activists.
He described his life as being difficult due to responses from transgender activists and journalists.
The court case took place at Westminster Magistrates' Court.
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New Zealand has seen an increase in applications from wealthy Americans for its "golden visa" programs, which allow individuals to live and work there if they invest in businesses. The country recently introduced a new visa program requiring a minimum investment of $1 million NZD, aiming to attract more foreign investment and offer a simpler path to permanent residency.
Key Facts
New Zealand's "golden visa" applications from Americans have risen by 72% since July.
The new "Business Investor Work Visa" lets people live and work in New Zealand for up to four years by investing in businesses.
Applicants must invest at least $1 million NZD or $2 million NZD for a quicker residency process.
They need at least $500,000 NZD in funds and a company with $1 million NZD annual revenue or five full-time workers.
Applicants cannot invest in gambling, tobacco, fast-food franchises, or companies younger than five years.
After living in New Zealand for two years, residents can apply for permanent residency.
A future visa option is planned for startup entrepreneurs with innovative ideas to further attract international investment.
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A man in Missouri visited a thrift store and found a painting with the price of $10 written directly on it, which seemed to have decreased its value. He shared this experience online, highlighting a common issue in thrift stores where price tags are placed carelessly and damage items.
Key Facts
A man in Missouri found a painting at a thrift store with "$10" written on it.
He shared his experience on Reddit.
Thrift store shoppers often find valuable items, though this was not the case here.
The man mentioned that thrift stores sometimes damage items with poorly placed price tags.
He noted that this painting was in a "bin store," a section for items that may soon be recycled or trashed.
The man chose not to buy the painting because of the writing on it.
The story draws attention to the need for better pricing practices to avoid damaging items.
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The UK government plans to extend its sugar tax to include sugary milk-based drinks like milkshakes and lattes from April 2028. This measure aims to encourage healthier diets by reducing sugar intake, especially after seeing a reduction in sugar levels from the initial tax introduced in 2018. The sugar tax impacts pre-packaged drinks, requiring companies to either reduce sugar or pay a tax.
Key Facts
The sugar tax is officially called the soft drinks industry levy (SDIL).
It was first introduced in April 2018 to reduce sugar intake and combat obesity.
Starting April 2028, the tax will extend to include sugary milk-based drinks, such as milkshakes and lattes.
Drinks made and served directly in cafés, restaurants, and bars are not subject to the tax.
Some natural drinks like pure fruit juice and cow's milk are exempt.
Currently, the tax is 18p per litre for drinks with at least 5g of sugar per 100ml, and 24p per litre for those with 8g or more.
The government is considering lowering the sugar limit for the tax from 5g to 4g per 100ml.
Since the tax was implemented, there has been a 46% reduction in sugar content in taxed drinks, but overall UK sugar consumption is still high.
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A dog with vitiligo, a condition that causes loss of color in the skin and fur, has gone viral on the internet. Photos over two years show the dog's fur changing from black to partly gray. Vitiligo is a harmless condition that affects skin and fur color and is not painful for dogs.
Key Facts
Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks cells that produce pigment, leading to lighter or colorless skin and fur.
The condition is not contagious and does not cause pain, itching, or health problems in dogs.
Genetic factors may influence vitiligo, but no single gene is responsible.
Vitiligo can start in young adulthood and often affects areas like the face, nose, and lips first.
The condition progresses over weeks or months, and while some pigment might return, changes are typically permanent.
Sun protection is suggested for dogs with vitiligo to prevent sunburn.
Rottweilers, Doberman pinchers, and Belgian Tervurens are more likely to develop vitiligo, but any breed can be affected.
The dog’s story and transformation images gained over 57,000 upvotes and 775 comments on Reddit.
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Palestinian militants handed over human remains to the Red Cross in Gaza, suspected to be from hostages. The handover is linked to a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Gaza militants. This ceasefire faces challenges due to slow progress in the exchange of remains.
Key Facts
Palestinian militants gave human remains to the Red Cross as part of a ceasefire deal.
It's unclear if the remains belong to one of the three hostages still in Gaza.
The remains will go through DNA testing in Israel for identification.
25 hostages' bodies have been handed over since the ceasefire on October 10, 2023.
Israel has released 330 Palestinian bodies to Gaza since the ceasefire started.
The ceasefire is threatened by the slow pace of remains exchange and ongoing accusations from both sides.
Recent rain in Gaza has worsened humanitarian conditions, affecting displaced people.
Gaza's Health Ministry reports numerous deaths and injuries since the conflict began on October 7, 2023.
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A United Nations report found that in 2024, over 50,000 women and girls were killed by their partners or family members worldwide. This amounts to approximately 137 women each day. The report highlights that many of these deaths might be preventable with better protective measures and support systems.
Key Facts
In 2024, more than 50,000 women and girls were killed by intimate partners or family members.
On average, this translates to one woman killed every 10 minutes, or 137 per day.
A total of 83,000 women and girls were intentionally killed worldwide, with 60% killed by partners or relatives.
Only 11% of male homicide victims were killed by partners or family members.
The report suggests that poor data collection and survivors' fears of reporting contribute to underestimating these figures.
Factors such as economic instability, conflict, and lack of safe housing can increase risks for women in abusive situations.
Africa reported the highest regional rate of femicide by partners or family members, followed by other regions.
UN officials emphasize the need for stronger prevention and a coordinated response to detect early signs of violence.
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The United States conducted airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites using F-35 stealth jets in June. The mission, called Operation Midnight Hammer, aimed to destroy Iran's nuclear facilities and involved multiple types of military aircraft. After the strikes, Iran launched missiles at a U.S. base in Qatar, but no U.S. casualties were reported.
Key Facts
Operation Midnight Hammer targeted three Iranian nuclear sites: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
F-35 stealth jets and B-2 bombers were key aircraft in the mission.
The F-35A jets "kicked down the door" by destroying Iranian air defenses to allow other aircraft to strike.
Iran responded to the strikes by launching missiles at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.
The U.S. reported no casualties from Iran's missile attacks.
F-35 jets were part of a larger deployment to the Middle East starting in March.
The mission tested the F-35's advanced features like stealth and sensor fusion, leading to the operation's success.
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A study from the University of Cambridge shows that the human brain goes through five key phases of development. The research identifies crucial ages at 9, 32, 66, and 83, and suggests that adolescence may last until the early 30s.
Key Facts
The study involved brain scans of about 4,000 people, up to age 90.
Researchers identified five brain phases: childhood, adolescence, adulthood, early ageing, and late ageing.
Key ages for brain changes are 9, 32, 66, and 83.
Adolescence could extend until the early 30s, longer than previously thought.
Mental health disorders can begin during the adolescence phase.
The study's findings are based on a large number of brain scans.
During adulthood, which starts at 32, brain changes slow down.
Early ageing begins at 66, and late ageing starts at 83.
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Germany has unveiled its new Leopard 2A8 main battle tank, which will be used by German forces in Lithuania as part of NATO's efforts to enhance its eastern defenses. Several European countries have already placed orders for these tanks, and Germany will have them operational by 2027.
Key Facts
Germany introduced the new Leopard 2A8 tank in Munich on November 19.
The tank will be used by German forces stationed in Lithuania to strengthen NATO's eastern flank near Russia.
Germany has ordered 123 Leopard 2A8 tanks, aiming to have them ready by 2027.
The Netherlands, Czech Republic, Sweden, Croatia, and Lithuania have also ordered these tanks.
Germany’s Armored Brigade 45 in Lithuania, which will use these tanks, is the first German troop deployment abroad since World War II.
NATO has multinational forces in the Baltic states and Poland to prevent Russian aggression.
The new tanks feature a 120 mm main cannon and two 7.62 mm machine guns.
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A Russian oil tanker reached Venezuela after avoiding interception by the U.S. Navy in the Caribbean. The tanker, called Seahorse, faced challenges due to U.S. sanctions and naval presence in the region. The ship's journey highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Venezuela, the U.S., Russia, and other nations.
Key Facts
A Russian oil tanker named Seahorse reached a port in Venezuela after changing its route to avoid U.S. naval ships.
The tanker is sanctioned by both the UK and the European Union.
The U.S. Navy is actively monitoring the Caribbean as part of operations against drug trafficking and to pressure the Venezuelan government.
Since 2019, the U.S. has imposed sanctions on Venezuela's state-owned oil company.
Russia, China, and Iran use shadow fleets, which are secretive shipping networks, to bypass Western sanctions.
Another Russian tanker, the Vasily Lanovoy, also reached Venezuela over the same weekend.
The tensions increased after Venezuela dismissed the U.S. designation of a criminal network as a terrorist group.
The U.S. has not yet revealed its next steps regarding military activities in Venezuela.
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The UK government has selected Heathrow Airport's proposal for a third runway, which costs £49 billion and involves moving a major road, the M25. The government believes this plan is more likely to succeed and help make a decision within the current parliament. A final decision will take several years to be made.
Key Facts
Heathrow Airport proposed a third runway that would be 3.5 kilometers long.
The plan involves constructing a new road tunnel under the airport.
This expansion project costs an estimated £49 billion.
An alternative plan by Arora Group suggested a shorter runway without moving the M25.
The government's Department for Transport favors Heathrow’s plan as more feasible.
The decision will contribute to the government's Airports National Policy Statement review.
Completion of the decision-making process is hoped for by 2029.
Planning permission is required before the runway can be built.
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A dog named Jersey Mike left the shelter after being adopted, and his happy reaction was shared on TikTok, gaining millions of views. Joanna Sansan played a key role in Mike's adoption by fostering him just in time. Overcrowding in shelters leads to many animals not being adopted, emphasizing the importance of fostering.
Key Facts
The rescue dog, nicknamed Jersey Mike, was adopted from Fulton County Animal Services in Atlanta, Georgia.
Joanna Sansan fostered Mike before his time at the shelter ran out, allowing him to find a new home.
Sansan shared a video of Mike's joyful exit on TikTok, which gained over 2 million views and 387,700 likes.
Annually, around 5.8 million cats and dogs enter shelters in the U.S.
In 2024, approximately 4.2 million shelter animals were adopted, but overcrowding remains a problem.
The ASPCA reported that 607,000 shelter animals were euthanized in 2024 due to overcrowding.
Sansan's involvement in fostering highlighted the impact one person can make on an animal's life.
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A TikTok video featuring a cat showing care for its sick owner went viral, receiving over 8 million views. The clip shows the cat bringing kibble to the owner's bed, sparking discussion about feline behavior.
Key Facts
A TikTok user named @gretta_zou posted a video of a cat taking care of its sick owner.
The video gained over 8 million views in just two days.
The sick owner found kibble on the bed, believed to be left by the concerned cat.
Some viewers commented that the cat's actions were thoughtful, while others had different interpretations.
The day after, the cat also brought a dead mouse to the owner.
Cats Protection, a UK charity, explains that cats bring prey home because they feel secure in their home and may want to store the food.
Newsweek could not verify the details of the situation shared in the video.
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The movie "Wicked: For Good" has finally shown fans the new actor playing Dorothy, whose face was kept hidden in the films. Bethany Weaver, a newcomer, plays Dorothy, and recently shared behind-the-scenes photos on Instagram. The director, Jon M. Chu, said he kept Dorothy's face hidden to preserve viewers' personal visions of the character.
Key Facts
"Wicked: For Good" is the latest film in the "Wicked" series.
The character Dorothy is played by Bethany Weaver, in her first screen acting role.
The director, Jon M. Chu, chose to keep Dorothy's face hidden in the movies.
Viewers are only shown flashes of Dorothy’s silhouette and profile.
Bethany Weaver revealed her role as Dorothy through Instagram photos.
Weaver expressed gratitude for joining the legacy of previous Dorothy actresses.
Fans reacted positively online to see who played Dorothy in the film.
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In Guinea-Bissau's presidential election, both incumbent Umaro Sissoco Embalo and challenger Fernando Dias declared victory before official results came out. Both claimed to have received over 50% of the votes, suggesting a win without the need for a run-off. The National Electoral Commission has not yet released provisional results.
Key Facts
Both Embalo and Dias declared they won more than 50% of the votes in the presidential election.
No official election results have been announced yet by the National Electoral Commission.
The election had a voter turnout of over 65%.
The election featured 12 candidates.
Dias was supported by the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC) but could not officially represent them.
Embalo is seeking to be re-elected for a second term and previously served as Prime Minister.
Guinea-Bissau has seen multiple coups in the past and remains a low-income country with significant poverty.
International observers from organizations like ECOWAS and the African Union monitored the election.
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Tanzania has called off its planned independence day celebrations due to unrest following recent elections. Instead, the funds will be used to repair infrastructure damaged during election-related violence. President Samia Suluhu Hassan won the election, which opposition parties have described as unfair.
Key Facts
Tanzania's Prime Minister announced the cancellation of independence day celebrations.
The funds saved will be used for repairing infrastructure damaged during election unrest.
The opposition claims hundreds died in a government crackdown after the disputed election.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan won the election with 98% of the vote.
Main opposition leaders were unable to participate in the election.
An internet blackout occurred for five days during and after the election.
The government has set up a commission to investigate the post-election events.
At least 240 people faced treason charges after the protests, but many have been released.
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A mother in Florida experienced a frightening situation when her 2-year-old son, Ethan, suddenly had trouble breathing due to croup, a viral illness that affects the airway. After a quick trip to the emergency room, doctors treated Ethan, and he recovered well. The incident gained attention online as the mother shared her experience on TikTok, prompting many parents to share similar stories.
Key Facts
Ethan, a 2-year-old boy in Florida, developed breathing problems two hours after being put to bed.
His parents initially thought he had an allergic reaction but doctors diagnosed him with croup.
Croup is a viral illness that causes swelling and narrowing of the airway in children.
Symptoms of croup include a barking cough, stridor (high-pitched breathing), and fever.
Ethan was treated with ibuprofen, steroids, and a breathing treatment, improving within 20 minutes.
Tests for common viruses like COVID-19 and the flu were negative.
Ethan recovered quickly and was back to his usual self by the third day.
The mother shared the incident on TikTok, which received 2.3 million views, sparking many parents to share their own croup experiences.
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