Researchers from the University of Oxford and Florida Institute of Technology have found evidence that kissing might have originated 21 million years ago in the common ancestors of humans and large apes. The study aimed to determine whether kissing is an evolved behavior or a cultural invention. By examining primate behavior, the researchers suggest that Neanderthals and other ancient species likely engaged in kissing.
Key Facts
Researchers suggest kissing may have started 21 million years ago with early ancestors of humans and large apes.
The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Oxford and Florida Institute of Technology.
The research looked at kissing as "mouth-to-mouth contact that did not involve food transfer."
Only 46% of human cultures currently document kissing as a behavior.
Scientists used data from modern primate species that exhibit kissing behavior, like chimpanzees and bonobos.
The team ran simulations 10 million times to estimate kissing's presence in ancient species.
The study provides a framework for future research on nonhuman animal behavior.
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A Lebanese man is on trial in Germany for allegedly being part of Hezbollah's military wing, which is considered a terrorist group by the EU. He is accused of helping to support Hezbollah's drone program by buying materials from Europe, China, and the US. His trial is related to actions taken by Hezbollah against Israel, which included using drones for attacks.
Key Facts
The man on trial is a 35-year-old Lebanese national named Fadel Z.
He is accused of being involved with Hezbollah's military operations and their drone program.
Prosecutors say he started working for Hezbollah over 10 years ago and became involved in drone operations in 2022.
He allegedly helped procure drone components worth about €1.4 million.
The parts included petrol and electric motors and propellers, sourced from Europe, China, and the US.
Some of the parts were used in drones that attacked Israel, including one that hit a retirement home.
The trial is expected to continue until August next year.
The actions are linked to ongoing conflicts between Israel and Hezbollah, which intensified after October 2023.
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Hamas and other Palestinian groups in Gaza have rejected a UN resolution that proposes a new governance structure and international military presence in the region. They believe this plan undermines their right to self-rule and labels it as another form of external control. The resolution is supported by President Trump and some Arab countries, but criticized for not addressing key issues like ending Israeli occupation.
Key Facts
Hamas and other factions in Gaza oppose a UN resolution for a new governing body and international forces in Gaza.
They argue this action could limit Palestinians' right to self-governance.
The resolution is part of a plan led by President Trump and backed by several Arab nations.
Israeli operations continue in Gaza even after a recent ceasefire.
Some Gaza citizens and leaders criticize the UN plan, feeling it does not protect Palestinian interests.
The Palestinian Authority supports the resolution and aims to implement it.
Israeli air strikes targeted various areas shortly after the resolution's announcement.
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Congress voted to make the Epstein files public, with support from both political parties. Attorney Spencer Kuvin, who represents people affected by Epstein's actions, talked about the vote and future steps.
Key Facts
Congress voted to release the Epstein files.
Both political parties supported this decision.
The files are related to Jeffrey Epstein's actions.
Spencer Kuvin is an attorney for Epstein's victims.
Amna Nawaz interviewed Spencer Kuvin about the vote.
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A poll conducted by The Economist and YouGov shows that 45% of Americans do not support using U.S. military force to remove Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from power. The poll results come as the Trump administration considers military action against Maduro amid increased tensions in Latin America. Only 17% of those surveyed support military intervention, while 38% are unsure.
Key Facts
45% of Americans oppose using military force against Venezuela's President Maduro.
17% favor U.S. military intervention to remove Maduro from power.
38% of respondents are unsure about military intervention.
The poll surveyed 1,564 U.S. adults with a margin of error of 3.5%.
Nicolás Maduro has a low favorability rating of 6% among Americans.
The poll was conducted between November 15 and November 17.
The Trump administration has increased military operations in the region against alleged drug traffickers.
The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier has been deployed near Venezuela.
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The United States did not send representatives to the COP30 United Nations climate summit happening near the Amazon rainforest. John Kerry mentioned that this decision might weaken international teamwork on climate issues.
Key Facts
COP30 is the United Nations climate summit.
It is taking place near the Amazon rainforest.
Delegates from almost 200 countries are present at the summit.
The United States chose not to send any representatives.
John Kerry expressed concern that the U.S. absence might hinder global efforts in addressing climate change.
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A woman named Morwenna Loughman shared her experience of enduring multiple delays in the trial of her rapist, which left her deeply traumatized. The trial for her case was postponed twice before her attacker was convicted over two years after the crime. Research shows that trial delays are common, further highlighting issues in the justice system in England and Wales.
Key Facts
Morwenna Loughman was raped in February 2023 and her attacker was convicted in August 2025.
The trial was postponed twice at the last minute, causing significant distress to Ms. Loughman.
Research by Rape Crisis England and Wales indicated a rise in trial postponements from one in 10 cases in 2015 to one in three in 2024.
Ms. Loughman chose to waive her right to anonymity to bring attention to the trial delays.
She suffered severe psychological effects, including PTSD, nightmares, and flashbacks, as a result of the delays.
Justice Minister Sarah Sackman stated that the court delays were "absolutely unacceptable" and contributed to further trauma for victims.
The Ministry of Justice reported a record backlog in the Crown Courts, with over 78,000 cases pending as of June 2025.
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A study in The Lancet highlights the global rise of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), which are foods made with industrial ingredients and additives. Experts warn that these foods are replacing fresh foods and are linked to various health issues. The study urges governments and companies to take action by improving access to healthier foods and regulating UPF production and marketing.
Key Facts
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are heavily processed foods and drinks with industrial ingredients.
The study published in The Lancet involves 43 global experts who call for public health actions.
UPFs contribute significantly to poor diet quality and are linked to conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes.
UPF consumption has increased in countries like Spain, China, Mexico, Brazil, the U.S., and the U.K.
Experts recommend measures like tax implementation on UPFs and better labeling to identify them.
UPFs often contain high levels of sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives, but little fiber and protein.
Researchers acknowledge the need for further research but insist on immediate actions based on existing evidence.
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The UK has made a change to its immigration policy, extending the time period for indefinite leave to remain from five years to ten years for those who arrived since 2021. This change will affect about 2.6 million people but will not apply to those who have already gained settlement.
Key Facts
The UK government changed its immigration policy.
The qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain is now 10 years.
This change impacts people arriving since 2021.
Approximately 2.6 million people will be affected by this change.
Those who already have settlement will not be impacted.
This announcement is part of a broader discussion on migration and budgetary issues.
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Brian Walshe, from Massachusetts, has pleaded guilty to misleading police and handling a human body unlawfully. He is accused of killing his wife, Ana Walshe, but maintains his not guilty plea for murder. The trial is set to begin on December 1, with jury selection ongoing.
Key Facts
Brian Walshe is accused of killing and dismembering his wife, Ana Walshe.
He pleaded guilty to misleading police and conveying a human body but denies murder.
A judge found him competent to stand trial after a medical evaluation.
Ana Walshe was last seen on January 1, 2023, and her body has not been found.
Investigators found items like a hatchet and cleaning agents linked to her at a trash site.
Brian Walshe is involved in a separate case of art fraud concerning fake Andy Warhol paintings.
Prosecutors say he searched online for information related to body disposal.
The trial is expected to last three to four weeks.
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The article shares the story of Courtney Irwin, who found her place in a youth development center in Salinas, California. She explains how cooking and being part of a community supported her personal growth and sense of belonging.
Key Facts
Courtney Irwin is the focus of the article.
The youth development center is located in Salinas, California.
Irwin highlights the impact of cooking on her life.
Community involvement plays a key role in her experience.
The article title suggests she has a "Brief But Spectacular" perspective.
The piece emphasizes the importance of finding the right environment for personal development.
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Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum rejected President Donald Trump's suggestion of possible U.S. military intervention in Mexico to combat drug cartels. Sheinbaum stated she is open to collaboration with the U.S. but firmly opposes any foreign military action on Mexican soil. Trump's comments follow an ongoing U.S. bombing campaign against alleged drug-smuggling operations at sea, with potential expansion to land-based targets in Mexico.
Key Facts
Claudia Sheinbaum, President of Mexico, opposes U.S. military intervention in Mexico.
President Trump suggested using military force in Mexico to fight drug cartels.
Sheinbaum agreed to collaborate on intelligence-sharing but rejects foreign intervention.
Trump's comments follow a U.S. military campaign targeting alleged drug-smuggling boats.
There is debate and criticism surrounding the legality of the U.S. bombing campaign.
Reports indicate unverified identities of victims in the bombings, with claims some were fishermen.
Fatal drug overdoses in the U.S. have reportedly decreased in recent years.
Trump has not clarified if he would seek Mexico's permission before any land strikes.
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In Brazil, United Nations climate talks are underway, focusing on ways to stop using oil, coal, and natural gas. Brazil is pushing for quick decisions on new topics not originally on the agenda, while many countries are asking for a plan to reduce fossil fuel use.
Key Facts
The climate talks are happening in Belem, Brazil.
The goal is to stop burning oil, coal, and natural gas.
Brazil's presidency wants quick decisions on new issues not in the original agenda.
Many countries are joining forces to ask for a detailed plan to stop using fossil fuels.
Former Ireland President Mary Robinson compared these talks to the 2015 Paris Agreement talks.
The conference is expected to continue until Friday.
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Conservationists and the Brazilian government are considering new rules to protect brazilwood, a tree used to make bows for stringed instruments like violins and cellos. This could mean musicians would have to register their instruments to travel or sell them, which worries many in the music community.
Key Facts
Brazilwood, also called pernambuco, is important for making high-quality bows for violins and cellos.
Conservationists want to protect brazilwood due to concerns about its sustainability.
The Brazilian government is involved in discussing new restrictions for this wood.
If the restrictions are approved, musicians may need to register their bows for international travel or sales.
This potential requirement concerns musicians, as bow choice is very personal and affects sound and performance.
Famous musicians like Yo-Yo Ma highly value brazilwood for its unique qualities.
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President Trump spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) and commented that many people did not like journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The murder of Khashoggi in 2018 increased tensions between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, especially after a 2021 report suggested MBS was involved in the crime.
Key Facts
President Trump met with Saudi Crown Prince MBS on Tuesday.
Trump mentioned that many people "didn't like" Jamal Khashoggi, who was a journalist.
Jamal Khashoggi was murdered in 2018.
The murder led to increased tension between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia.
A 2021 report suggested MBS approved the plan to capture or kill Khashoggi.
Saudi Arabia denied the report's findings.
Trump noted Khashoggi was a controversial figure.
Trump stated that the U.S. would sell advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia.
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Security forces in northwest Nigeria are working hard to locate 25 schoolgirls who were kidnapped by armed men from their school in Kebbi State. The attackers killed the school's vice principal and took the students, prompting increased efforts from local authorities and the military. The attack is part of a pattern of school kidnappings in Nigeria.
Key Facts
25 schoolgirls were abducted from a school in Kebbi State, Nigeria by armed men on motorcycles.
The attack happened early Monday morning, and the vice principal was killed.
No group has claimed responsibility for the kidnapping, and their motives remain unclear.
Security forces are searching nearby forests and major roads to find the abductors.
Kebbi's governor and Nigeria’s army chief are actively involved in rescue efforts.
This is the second major school abduction in Kebbi in four years; similar incidents have occurred in the past.
Over 1,500 Nigerian students have been kidnapped since the Boko Haram group abducted girls in 2014.
U.S. President Donald Trump's supporters have commented on the incident, claiming Christians are under attack, although the victims are reportedly Muslim.
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The new film "After The Hunt," directed by Luca Guadagnino, will be available to stream on Prime Video starting November 20, 2025. The movie, starring Julia Roberts and Andrew Garfield, is about a college professor facing challenges after a student makes an accusation against a colleague.
Key Facts
"After The Hunt" is directed by Luca Guadagnino.
The film stars Julia Roberts, Ayo Edebiri, Andrew Garfield, Michael Stuhlbarg, and Chloë Sevigny.
It will be available for streaming on Prime Video starting November 20, 2025.
To watch the film, you need a Prime Video subscription.
"After The Hunt" is a psychological drama about a college professor dealing with a personal and professional crisis.
Premiered at the Venice Film Festival.
No current plans for a physical release on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, or DVD.
Streaming times vary by time zone, starting at Midnight PT/3 am ET on November 20, 2025.
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Parts of Central Texas are expected to get more than three times their usual November rainfall in just 24 hours, posing a risk of flooding. The National Weather Service has issued flood watches for over 3.5 million people in areas including Austin and San Antonio, with some places possibly seeing up to six inches of rain.
Key Facts
Central Texas could receive over three times the average November rainfall in 24 hours.
The National Weather Service issued flood watches affecting over 3.5 million people in various cities.
Cities under watch include Austin, San Antonio, Uvalde, and Del Rio.
Up to six inches of rain could fall in some areas, greatly exceeding averages.
The flood watches are in effect from Wednesday night through Thursday night.
Flooding could affect rivers, creeks, urban drainage, and low-lying areas.
People are urged not to drive through flooded roads, as most flood-related deaths happen in vehicles.
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The bodies of a Syrian woman and her 10-year-old daughter were found in freezers in an apartment in Innsbruck, Austria. Two Austrian brothers have been arrested, with one admitting to hiding the bodies but denying murder. Authorities suspect the deaths might have been planned.
Key Facts
A 34-year-old woman and her 10-year-old daughter went missing in western Austria.
Their bodies were found in freezers in Innsbruck on a Friday.
Two Austrian brothers, aged 53 and 55, are in custody.
The 55-year-old man admitted to hiding the bodies but denies intent to kill.
The younger brother admitted to a cover-up but denied knowledge of murder.
Authorities mentioned that a storage unit with freezers was involved, suggesting premeditation.
The disappearance was reported by the woman’s cousin from Germany in July 2024.
A four-figure sum of money was transferred to one of the suspects, raising further suspicions.
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President Donald Trump welcomed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the White House. The event included music, a horse procession, and military jets flying over.
Key Facts
President Trump hosted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House.
The welcome ceremony included music.
There was a procession of horses as part of the event.
Military jets flew over during the ceremony.
The meeting was part of official diplomatic activities.
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