Hundreds of Muslims in Ujjain, India, protested against the partial demolition of a mosque they say is over 600 years old. The state government, led by the BJP party, says the demolition is necessary to widen roads before a large Hindu pilgrimage in 2028.
Key Facts
The mosque is located in Ujjain, India.
Muslims claim the mosque is more than 600 years old.
The mosque was partially demolished by the state government.
The government is led by the BJP party.
The stated reason for demolition is to widen roads.
The road expansion is planned ahead of a large Hindu pilgrimage in 2028.
Hundreds of Muslims protested the demolition.
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A nor’easter storm is affecting the U.S. Northeast, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and coastal flooding. The storm has caused power outages, flight cancellations, and a death, with the worst impact expected around New York City, New Jersey, and Long Island. The storm will weaken starting Sunday but continue to cause bad weather through Monday.
Key Facts
Millions in the Northeast, including New York City and Boston, face dangerous flooding, strong winds, and heavy rain.
A 56-year-old man in Brooklyn died after a tree fell during the storm.
Over 100,000 homes in New Jersey, Massachusetts, Delaware, and New York lost power.
Many events, including a festival in Central Park and a concert in Massachusetts, were canceled.
More than 450 flights were canceled and 3,000 delayed on Saturday.
New York and New Jersey declared states of emergency in several counties.
The worst flooding is expected along shorelines during high tides on Saturday and Sunday.
The storm will weaken Sunday but impacts like rain and strong winds will last until Monday night.
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A couple in Greece used embryos frozen 22 years ago to have a baby girl after their son died. Christina Rapti-Tzelepi, 54 years old, had the baby through IVF just before Greece's age limit of 54 for fertility treatment.
Key Facts
The couple froze 12 embryos in 2004 during IVF treatment to have children.
Their son George was born via C-section but died in a car accident in October 2025.
After their son's death, they decided to use the frozen embryos to try for another child.
Christina was close to Greece's legal age limit of 54 for IVF treatment, so they acted quickly.
The baby girl was born healthy in early 2026 at Genesis Athens Clinic.
Greece has an age limit of 54 for women to get IVF because of health risks and biological limits.
The couple is asking for changes to Greece’s IVF age laws to help others in similar situations.
Their doctor, Dr. Konstantinos Pantos, noted the parents’ strong grief during the pregnancy process.
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Several men were arrested near a village close to a U.S.-used air base in southwestern England on suspicion of crimes involving explosives. Police declared a major incident, evacuated some residents, and deployed a bomb disposal team to inspect vehicles near the base.
Key Facts
The arrests happened near Whelford, close to RAF Fairford, an air base used by U.S. forces.
Police cited offences under the UK explosives laws.
A bomb disposal team is examining multiple vehicles at the scene.
Several local homes were evacuated, and a safety cordon was set up.
Security at RAF Fairford has increased with more roadblocks and armed police.
RAF Fairford has been used by American forces for strikes in the conflict with Iran.
Police have not confirmed if the arrests are directly related to the air base.
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Big Bang, a South Korean K-pop group, returned to perform in London on their 20th anniversary world tour after many years. They are known for helping K-pop become popular worldwide, especially in Western countries, before groups like BTS and Blackpink rose to global fame.
Key Facts
Big Bang performed at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London after 14 years since their first big European shows.
The group performed as a trio: G-Dragon, Taeyang, and Daesung, due to some members leaving or being absent.
Big Bang helped make K-pop popular outside Asia by filling arenas, collaborating with American artists, and mixing hip-hop and electronic music.
They won the 2011 MTV Europe Music Award for Worldwide Act, the first K-pop group to do so.
In 2012, their European debut at Wembley Arena sold out quickly, leading to extra shows.
Forbes listed Big Bang on its Celebrity 100 List in 2016, noting they earned $44 million in one year.
They wrote and produced their own songs and influenced fashion, which set them apart from other K-pop groups.
Music experts consider Big Bang important pioneers who showed a Western stadium tour by a K-pop group could be successful.
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Russian attacks killed at least four people in Ukraine as fighting continued between Moscow and Kyiv. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed hope that Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin could agree to end the conflict.
Key Facts
Russian air strikes resulted in at least four deaths in Ukraine.
Fighting between Russia and Ukraine is ongoing with increased aerial attacks.
President Donald Trump hopes leaders of Ukraine and Russia will reach an agreement.
The conflict involves frequent exchanges of strikes between Moscow and Kyiv.
U.S. officials call for an end to attacks on energy infrastructure in Ukraine.
Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy is expected to address the United Nations regarding the war.
Russia’s political party retained its majority in recent elections since the start of the invasion.
Sanctions linked to the war have been adjusted in Europe, lifting restrictions on some Russians.
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British police evacuated homes near RAF Fairford, an air base in southwest England used by the US Air Force, after arresting several men on suspicion of explosives offenses. The incident came amid heightened security due to the base's role in US strikes against Iranian missile sites.
Key Facts
RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, UK, is used by the US Air Force for operations, including strikes on Iranian missile sites.
Several men were arrested by British police on suspicion of violating the Explosives Act.
Police evacuated around 30 homes in the nearby village of Whelford following a major incident declaration.
The British Army’s bomb disposal team is inspecting several vehicles related to the case.
Armed police blocked access to the main gate of the air base, with emergency vehicles present nearby.
The US Air Force stated it routinely reviews security measures to protect personnel and installations.
Britain has warned it is prepared to defend the country after threats from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards related to US bomber activity from Fairford.
The UK government is also concerned about possible sabotage and cyberattacks from Russia targeting critical infrastructure.
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Two separate mass shootings in South Africa killed 27 people and injured many others over a short time period. One attack happened near Johannesburg at a bar, and the other occurred outside an entertainment venue near Cape Town. Police have not yet given a motive or made any arrests.
Key Facts
17 people died and 15 were injured in the Johannesburg bar shooting.
10 people died and 11 were injured near Cape Town in the early morning shooting.
Gunmen torched vehicles and attacked both inside and outside the Johannesburg bar.
Police have not identified a motive or made arrests in either shooting.
South Africa has very high murder rates and ongoing problems with gang violence.
Recent mass shootings are linked to gangs fighting over illegal activities like drug trafficking and mining.
President Cyril Ramaphosa described organized crime as a major threat to the country.
The military has been deployed to support police in high-crime areas to try to reduce violence.
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Afghanistan’s Ministry of Defence said its forces killed 28 fighters who crossed from Pakistan into Nuristan province. Pakistan denied involvement and rejected accusations of supporting militants or recruiting former Afghan security personnel. Both sides blamed each other amid rising tensions and recent cross-border attacks.
Key Facts
Afghan forces killed 28 fighters in Nuristan who allegedly crossed from Pakistan.
Afghanistan claims many fighters were former Afghan security staff recruited by Pakistani intelligence.
Afghan authorities say some fighters included ISIS members supported by Pakistani militias.
Pakistan denies involvement in these clashes or recruitment and calls the claims baseless.
Pakistan urges Afghan Taliban to stop terrorist groups from operating in Afghanistan.
Recent tensions include Pakistani air strikes on Afghan territory hitting alleged drone sites.
The air strikes have killed fighters and some civilians, with both sides promising responses.
Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of sheltering militants who attack Pakistani territory, a claim Kabul denies.
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Rafael Larraenza leads search-and-rescue missions for people who disappear while crossing the US-Mexico border. For 25 years, he has helped families find missing loved ones in dangerous desert areas, despite facing challenges like fewer resources and his own aging.
Key Facts
Rafael Larraenza has been conducting search-and-rescue operations at the US-Mexico border for 25 years.
He helps locate people who have gone missing after crossing the border.
Larraenza is known for his unique skills and determination in difficult rescue missions.
The desert environment where he works is very dangerous and hard to survive.
He currently faces physical decline and limited resources while continuing his work.
Larraenza is working to find a mother’s missing son in the desert.
The documentary "Finding Desert Angels" by Vincent DeLuca tells the story of his rescue efforts.
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A strong El Niño event is expected to increase the risk of flooding across parts of the United States this winter, especially in California, the Southwest, and the southern states. Meteorologists warn that heavy rain and storms could cause flooding and other weather problems from fall through early spring.
Key Facts
El Niño is a natural climate pattern with warmer Pacific Ocean waters that changes weather worldwide.
The current El Niño is breaking records and may become one of the strongest on record by the end of the year.
Increased rainfall and flood risk are expected mainly in California, the Southwest (Arizona, New Mexico), Florida, and states along the Gulf Coast.
Mountainous and steep areas in the Southwest risk fast-moving floodwater hitting roads and neighborhoods.
In Florida, development on sandy soil reduces places for water to go, increasing flooding chances.
The southern jet stream will bring more storms, heavy rain, and possible severe weather in the Southeast during winter.
The Great Lakes and Ohio Valley could see more rain and less snow during milder El Niño conditions.
Forecasts predict January and February will be especially wet in many affected regions.
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Hungary is making changes after 16 years under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, focusing on fighting corruption and improving ties with Europe. However, the new government led by Prime Minister Péter Magyar plans to keep close cooperation with the U.S., especially continuing policies developed with President Trump’s administration.
Key Facts
Viktor Orbán was Hungary’s prime minister for 16 years before being replaced by Péter Magyar in April.
Orbán was a close ally of President Donald Trump and shared similar views on issues like immigration and national sovereignty.
The new Hungarian government is working to reduce corruption and strengthen relationships with European allies.
Despite changes, Hungary will maintain strong ties with the United States through NATO and other agreements.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orbán said the country will keep pursuing policies aligned with conservative values, including protecting families and securing borders.
The Trump administration supported Orbán’s reelection campaign, and President Trump has called both Orbán and Magyar “good men.”
Hungary plans to continue efforts against illegal migration by defending borders and fences.
The new government aims to balance continuity with change, keeping some policies but reforming others.
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British police arrested several people near a U.S. air base in England on suspicion of breaking laws about explosives. Nearby homes were evacuated, and experts are inspecting vehicles to keep the situation safe.
Key Facts
The incident took place near RAF Fairford, a U.S. Air Force base in southwest England.
Several men were arrested under the Explosives Act.
The village of Whelford, about 2 miles from the base, had homes evacuated for safety.
The police called it a "major incident" but said it is contained.
Explosive ordnance disposal experts are checking vehicles.
RAF Fairford hosts U.S. bombers like the B-1 Lancer and B-52 Stratofortress.
The base has been important for U.S. military missions against Iran.
Local people were moved to a nearby recreation center while the police block the area.
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A dog named Penny was rescued from a narrow ledge at the bottom of a 40-foot cliff near Pecca Falls in Ingleton. Volunteers from the Cave Rescue Organisation and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue used ropes to safely bring Penny back to her owners.
Key Facts
Penny is an eight-year-old Labrador who fell into the river and got stuck on a rocky outcrop 6.5 feet above the water.
The rescue happened after 3:15 p.m. on a Saturday at Pecca Falls, a location with five waterfalls dropping a total of 98 feet.
A volunteer was lowered by rope to reach Penny and then pulled her back up safely.
The Ripon swiftwater rescue team helped by providing support downstream.
The Cave Rescue Organisation (CRO) has more than 80 volunteers and covers the Yorkshire Dales, Lancashire, and Cumbria.
CRO was founded in 1935 and handles mountain and cave rescues and other emergencies.
This is not the first time CRO rescued a dog from Pecca Falls; a similar rescue took place in March 2024.
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Pope Leo XIV visited the Lourdes pilgrimage site in France and prayed at the Grotto of Massabielle, a well-known Catholic place of worship. He is the third pope to visit Lourdes and is scheduled to hold an outdoor mass and meet privately with survivors of clerical sexual abuse.
Key Facts
Pope Leo XIV visited Lourdes, a major Catholic pilgrimage destination in France.
He prayed at the Grotto of Massabielle during his visit.
Pope Leo XIV is the third pope to visit Lourdes, after Benedict XVI and John Paul II.
He plans to celebrate an open-air mass on Sunday.
He will also meet privately with seven survivors of clerical sexual abuse.
A French investigation found that Church members abused about 330,000 minors over 70 years.
The visit followed Pope Leo XIV’s events in Paris, including large outdoor masses.
Hundreds of thousands have attended recent masses and events with Pope Leo XIV in France.
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Swiss voters are taking part in a referendum to decide if Switzerland should add a stricter rule about the country’s long-standing neutrality to its constitution. This comes as other neutral countries increase defense spending and work more closely with NATO amid tensions in Europe caused by the war in Ukraine.
Key Facts
Switzerland has been neutral and not fought in a war since 1815.
The referendum asks if neutrality should be more clearly defined in the Swiss constitution.
Some people believe that actions like sanctions may harm Switzerland’s neutral status.
Other neutral European countries, like Austria and Ireland, are increasing defense budgets and strengthening ties with NATO.
The vote comes during a time of increased security concerns in Europe due to the Russia-Ukraine war.
The United States is also pressuring traditional alliances such as NATO to adapt to the changing situation.
The outcome will show how Switzerland plans to keep its neutrality in today's changing world.
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The Labour Party conference began in Liverpool with Labour showing strong support in recent polls, gaining many seats compared to earlier projections. Labour leader Andy Burnham said he is ready to make honest and difficult decisions, with more details expected in his upcoming speech.
Key Facts
Recent polls show Labour gaining about 250 seats, while Reform UK dropped to around 147 seats.
Last year, Reform UK was projected to get 293 seats and Labour only 110.
Labour conference is taking place in Liverpool with several key party leaders speaking.
Andy Burnham emphasizes honesty and willingness to make tough but necessary decisions.
Important speakers include deputy leader Lucy Powell, first secretary of state Louise Haigh, and defence secretary Wes Streeting.
The conference agenda includes discussions on housing, education, defence, and AI workers' preparation.
Burnham plans to meet Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre during the conference.
Labour has announced a new homes scheme for first-time buyers at the start of the conference.
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Libya has large oil and natural gas reserves and is becoming more important as a supplier during the global energy crisis caused by the war involving the US, Israel, and Iran. However, Libya faces challenges like domestic energy shortages, political instability, and wasted gas, making it difficult to fully benefit from increased global energy demand.
Key Facts
Libya holds about 48 billion barrels of proven oil reserves, the largest in Africa.
The country produces 1.5 million barrels of oil per day and has significant natural gas reserves.
Libya exports oil through the Mediterranean and sends gas to Europe via the Greenstream pipeline.
Despite being an energy exporter, Libya suffers from frequent electricity blackouts due to poor domestic energy systems.
Over 70% of Libya’s gas is used inside the country, mostly for electricity, leading to low gas exports that dropped from 200 billion cubic feet in 2019 to 35 billion in 2025.
At least 200 billion cubic feet of gas is wasted annually due to gas flaring, caused by weak infrastructure.
Libya spends about $17 billion (35% of its GDP) on energy subsidies, especially for imported refined fuels.
Political conflicts and instability disrupt oil and gas production and hinder needed reforms in the energy sector.
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Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz remain high after President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s plan to reopen the waterway. Explosions and attacks on ships have continued, as both Iran and the US take steps that keep the strait partly closed and disputed.
Key Facts
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical shipping route for oil between the Persian Gulf and the open ocean.
Iran proposed a plan to reopen the strait with seven conditions, including lifting the US blockade and releasing frozen Iranian funds.
President Trump rejected Iran’s proposal, leading to continued conflict in the area.
Explosions and attacks, including missile and drone strikes, have targeted ships near Iran’s Qeshm Island in the strait.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard says the strait is closed to ships that don’t coordinate with Iranian authorities.
Iran has asked shipping companies to use an approved temporary route and pay fees, threatening to blacklist companies that do not comply.
The US Navy claims to escort oil tankers safely through a different route and enforces a naval blockade on Iran’s ports.
Iran says the US gives false information to show control of the strait and blames the US and Israel for starting a war against Iran on February 28.
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Police in Gloucestershire, England, declared a major incident near RAF Fairford, a U.K. airbase used by the U.S. military for attacks on Iran. Several properties were evacuated, and men were arrested on suspicion of explosives offenses, with the situation described as contained.
Key Facts
The major incident took place in Whelford, about two miles from RAF Fairford.
RAF Fairford is a British airbase used by the U.S. for attacks on Iran.
Several properties were evacuated, and residents were moved to a nearby leisure center.
Multiple men were arrested for possible explosives-related offenses.
British Army explosive experts are examining vehicles connected to the incident.
The U.K. allowed the U.S. to use RAF Fairford for strikes on Iran starting in March.
The U.S. uses RAF Fairford for bombers including B-1 and B-52 types.
Iran has called U.K. bases used by the U.S. for attacks on Iran "legitimate targets."
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