World News

China holds second day of live-fire drills around Taiwan

December 30, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

China is conducting live-fire military exercises near Taiwan for the second day. In response, Taiwanese fighter jets are also active.

Key Facts

China is performing live-fire military drills around Taiwan.
This marks the second consecutive day of such exercises.
Taiwanese fighter jets have taken flight in response to these drills.
Al Jazeera’s reporter, Zein Basravi, is covering the situation from Taiwan.
The military in Taiwan is on high alert, but there is no sign of public panic.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera

Woman Finds $8 Purse at Goodwill, Makes $1,200 Discovery in Pocket

December 30, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

A woman in Georgia found a valuable item in a purse she bought at a Goodwill store for $8. Inside, she discovered a diamond bracelet worth $1,200, which she sold to help pay for a new car after her old one was totaled.

Key Facts

Erin Calkins bought an $8 purse at a Goodwill store in Atlanta, Georgia.
She found a diamond tennis bracelet hidden in the purse’s lining.
A jeweler confirmed the bracelet's authenticity and offered $1,200 for it.
Calkins accepted the offer, using the money towards a new car.
Calkins shared her find on Reddit, where it gained significant attention.
She was initially in the Goodwill store to look for a white shirt for her husband.

Source Verification

Newsweek

Quadrantids Meteor Shower: Where and When To See Light Show Peak

December 30, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

A meteor shower known as the Quadrantids is expected to peak in early January 2026, providing a visual spectacle for stargazers, mainly in the northern hemisphere. The best viewing times differ depending on location, with Asia expected to see the most activity if conditions are clear, while moonlight may obscure some of the meteors.

Key Facts

The Quadrantids meteor shower peaks in early January every year.
Meteors originate from comet particles and broken asteroids.
In 2026, the shower is expected to peak between 9 p.m. to midnight Universal Time on January 3 and 4.
Viewers in the northern hemisphere, particularly in Asia, will have the best views.
Observers in North America may see up to 10 meteors per hour.
A full moon on January 3, 2026, might make fainter meteors harder to see.
Watching from a dark location away from city lights improves visibility.
Viewers should look towards the northeastern sky and allow their eyes to adjust to the darkness.

Source Verification

Newsweek

Yemen’s presidential council cancels UAE defence deal

December 30, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Yemen's presidential council has ordered Emirati-backed forces to leave within 24 hours. This comes after a Saudi airstrike targeted Mukalla port where ships carrying weapons for southern separatists had docked.

Key Facts

Yemen's presidential council is supported by Saudi Arabia.
The council has demanded that forces backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) leave Yemen in 24 hours.
A Saudi airstrike hit Mukalla port after weapons for southern separatists were delivered.
The situation may lead to increased violence in Yemen.
The demand signals tension between Saudi-backed and UAE-backed groups in Yemen.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera

Trump says the U.S. 'hit' a coastal drug loading facility in Venezeula as tensions escalate

December 30, 2025 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. "hit" a dock facility suspected to be involved in drug trafficking in a coastal area, suggesting action against boats accused of carrying drugs. The U.S. has not provided specific details about the location, but these actions are part of ongoing efforts to target drug smuggling operations.

Key Facts

President Trump mentioned a U.S. action against a dock facility related to drug smuggling.
He discussed this in a radio interview and confirmed it in a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The U.S. military has conducted 30 strikes against alleged drug-smuggling boats since September.
A recent strike killed two people in the eastern Pacific Ocean.
Trump did not specify if the military or CIA carried out the strike or where exactly it happened.
Trump has not confirmed the exact location of the dock, only indicating it was "along the shore."

Source Verification

PBS NewsHour

“No withdrawal of the Israeli army” from Gaza unless Hamas disarms

December 30, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The article discusses President Donald Trump's plan for rebuilding Gaza. The plan includes conditions for Israeli army withdrawal, specifically that it won't happen unless Hamas disarms. The rebuilding might only occur in some areas.

Key Facts

The focus is on Gaza's reconstruction plan.
President Trump has a plan for rebuilding Gaza.
The plan includes a condition that the Israeli army won't leave Gaza unless Hamas gives up its weapons.
Reconstruction might only happen in selected areas of Gaza.
Thomas Warrick from the Atlantic Council provides insights on these issues.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera

UN says Sudan’s el-Fasher a ‘crime scene’ in first access since RSF capture

December 30, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A United Nations team visited the city of el-Fasher in Sudan and found it mostly empty, describing it as a "crime scene" after it was taken over by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in October. More than 100,000 people fled the city following reports of mass killings and detentions. The UN notes severe child malnutrition and ongoing violence in the region.

Key Facts

The United Nations described el-Fasher as a "crime scene" after visiting the city for the first time since RSF took control.
Over 100,000 residents fled el-Fasher after RSF seized it in October.
Survivors report ethnically motivated mass killings and detentions by RSF.
A large portion of the city’s population was already displaced from earlier conflicts.
UNICEF reported high levels of child malnutrition in North Darfur, with over half of 500 screened children acutely malnourished.
A Yale University report discussed RSF's actions to hide evidence of mass killings.
The RSF offensive in Darfur has included deadly attacks on civilians, worsening the humanitarian crisis.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera

A decimated Gaza marks the end of another year of Israeli bombs

December 30, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The article describes the severe damage to Gaza's infrastructure over the past year due to bombings. It highlights how essential services like electricity, water, and healthcare have deteriorated, making daily life difficult for residents. The ongoing conflict has left Gaza’s infrastructure in a fragile state, impacting living conditions significantly.

Key Facts

Gaza's electricity and water systems have been severely damaged, affecting daily life.
Hospitals in Gaza are operating under crisis conditions with limited power and supplies.
The only power plant in Gaza has shut down due to fuel shortages.
Damage to water facilities has led to a shortage of clean drinking water.
Streets and public facilities have been destroyed, complicating transportation and aid distribution.
Telecommunications have been disrupted, isolating people from emergency services.
Families often rely on generators for electricity, affecting communication and daily activities.
The destruction has led to widespread illness due to poor sanitation and contaminated water.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera

Dog’s Birthday Celebration on Beach Goes Viral As Passerby Captures It All

December 30, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

A video of a dog's tenth birthday celebration on Cannon Beach, Oregon, has become popular online. April Gosse, who witnessed and recorded the event, shared it on TikTok, and it has received significant attention. The dog's birthday included a photoshoot with balloons, capturing the interest and delight of many internet users.

Key Facts

A dog celebrated its tenth birthday on Cannon Beach, Oregon, with a sunset photoshoot.
April Gosse from Washington State captured the event and shared it on TikTok.
The celebration included a large balloon arch and dog-themed balloons.
Gosse’s video has attracted over 96,600 views and 26,800 likes on TikTok.
Many commenters responded positively, praising the thoughtful celebration.
The video was shared on December 14 and has received over 140 comments.
People online expressed delight and shared similar stories of celebrations for pets.

Source Verification

Newsweek

Which countries will start using the euro in 2026?

December 30, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Bulgaria plans to start using the euro as its currency on January 1, 2026. This change means Bulgaria will become the 21st European nation to adopt the euro, leaving six EU member countries still using their own currencies.

Key Facts

Bulgaria will adopt the euro on January 1, 2026.
Bulgaria has been a member of the European Union (EU) since January 1, 2007.
Only six EU countries will remain with their own currencies: The Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Sweden.
The euro is the official currency of the EU and is used by about 350 million people.
The European Central Bank manages the euro, which consists of six main banknotes.
The Exchange Rate Mechanism (ERM II) requires countries to stabilize their currency value against the euro before adoption.
Denmark has a legal opt-out from adopting the euro, as agreed in the 1992 Edinburgh Agreement.
Four non-EU countries also use the euro through formal agreements: Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera

Hysterics Over What Owner Forced To Do With Reluctant Dog ‘Every Morning'

December 30, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

A video went viral of a dog named Handsome, who prefers to sleep under a sink rather than in his dog beds. His owner, Serena, shared this humorous routine on TikTok, gaining widespread attention and relatable reactions from other dog owners.

Key Facts

A dog named Handsome refuses to leave his spot under a sink each morning.
Serena, the dog's owner, shared a video on TikTok showing her pulling him out.
The video gained over 484,000 views and more than 53,000 likes.
Handsome is a Pomeranian husky mix.
Many dog owners shared similar stories about their pets choosing unusual sleeping spots.
The video sparked a humorous and relatable response among viewers.

Source Verification

Newsweek

People Discover Obscure Consequence to Brigitte Bardot’s Death—Goes Viral

December 30, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

After Brigitte Bardot's death at age 91, people noticed she was one of the many cultural figures mentioned in Billy Joel's 1989 song "We Didn’t Start the Fire." Only three people from the song's list of over 100 historical and cultural figures are still alive. The song highlights key events and icons between 1949 and 1989.

Key Facts

Brigitte Bardot passed away on December 28, 2025, at age 91.
Bardot was a famous actress turned animal-rights activist.
She became well-known for the movie "And God Created Woman" in 1956.
Bardot's name appears in the fifth verse of Billy Joel's song.
The song "We Didn’t Start the Fire" features over 100 cultural references.
Only three people from the song's list are still alive.
A data analyst updated a chart that tracks all figures in the song after Bardot's passing.

Source Verification

Newsweek

How Prince Harry Changed Priorities in 2025

December 30, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

In 2025, Prince Harry faced several significant events related to his relationship with Britain. He lost a legal battle over police protection in the UK, met with King Charles III to improve their relationship, and wrote about his emotional connection to Britain. Harry awaits a new threat assessment that could impact his family's security arrangements during visits to the UK.

Key Facts

Prince Harry lost a court case in May 2025 about police protection in the UK.
The British Home Office made a ruling that decides Harry's protection on a case-by-case basis.
Harry met with King Charles III for tea in September, marking a positive turn in their relationship.
In November, Harry wrote an essay expressing his connection to and nostalgia for Britain.
In December, it was reported that a risk assessment board began evaluating Harry's security needs.
Harry no longer holds official police protection for his visits to the UK since leaving royal duties.
He hired a UK-based PR spokesman to help manage his public image in Britain.

Source Verification

Newsweek

Chappell Roan U-Turns on Brigitte Bardot Comments—Leaves Fans in Turmoil

December 30, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

Singer Chappell Roan removed a tribute to French actress Brigitte Bardot after learning about Bardot's controversial political views. Bardot was known for her acting and later became an outspoken animal rights activist, but her remarks criticizing Muslims, gay men, and the #MeToo movement have caused controversy. Roan faced mixed reactions online after retracting her initial praise of Bardot.

Key Facts

Chappell Roan initially shared a tribute to Brigitte Bardot on Instagram.
Roan later removed the tribute after discovering Bardot's controversial views.
Brigitte Bardot was an iconic actress and singer in the 1950s and 1960s.
Bardot became an animal welfare activist later in life.
Bardot made controversial remarks about Muslims, gay men, and the #MeToo movement.
Roan said she did not know about Bardot's political views before her tribute.
Online debate emerged about whether the criticism of Roan was justified.
Bardot was connected with far-right political figures in France.

Source Verification

Newsweek

Iran’s president calls on gov’t to hear ‘legitimate demands’ of protesters

December 30, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian urged his government to listen to the demands of protesters in Tehran, who have been demonstrating against the poor economy and the falling currency. He announced plans to address their concerns and improve economic conditions. The protests began after the Iranian rial hit new lows against the US dollar, leading to increased public unrest.

Key Facts

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed protesters' demands to improve livelihoods.
Demonstrations occurred in Tehran due to the depreciating Iranian rial.
The protests involved shop closures and street demonstrations.
Iran has been facing high inflation and a severe energy crisis.
Protests included clashes with antiriot forces using tear gas.
Iran's economy is under pressure from US and Western sanctions.
The government plans to reform the monetary and banking system.
Iran's internet environment is highly restricted, affecting information flow.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera

Yemen Bombing Sparks Rift Between US Allies in Middle East

December 30, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

Saudi Arabia bombed the Yemeni port city of Mukalla, claiming that forces backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) smuggled weapons into Yemen. The UAE denied these accusations and called for calm. This situation is causing tension between two key U.S. partners in the Middle East.

Key Facts

Saudi Arabia carried out an airstrike on Mukalla, a Yemeni port city.
Saudi Arabia accused UAE-backed forces of smuggling weapons into Yemen.
The United Arab Emirates denied the accusations.
The UAE called for restraint and wisdom in response to the situation.
Tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE could affect their coalition against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen.
Anti-Houthi groups in Yemen declared a state of emergency and wanted Emirati troops to leave within 24 hours.
The situation could change the political dynamics in the region, affecting areas from the Red Sea to the Arabian Peninsula.

Source Verification

Newsweek

One in two children malnourished in parts of Sudan’s North Darfur, UN says

December 30, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The United Nations has reported severe child malnutrition in North Darfur, Sudan, where conflict between the Sudanese army and Rapid Support Forces continues. UNICEF found over half of the children screened in a specific area were malnourished, with some facing life-threatening conditions. The conflict has displaced millions and caused famine, making it a major humanitarian crisis.

Key Facts

UNICEF warns of high levels of child malnutrition in North Darfur, Sudan.
Over 53% of 500 screened children in Um Baru area are acutely malnourished.
One in six children has severe acute malnutrition, a potentially fatal condition.
Fighting in Sudan involves the national army and the Rapid Support Forces.
The conflict has displaced over 12 million people and caused widespread famine.
A UN team visited the RSF-controlled city of el-Fasher, finding it nearly deserted.
More than 100,000 people fled el-Fasher due to fighting and reported atrocities.
The UN has called for an immediate ceasefire to stop the ongoing violence.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera

Stunning ISS Photo of Florida, Cuba Captures 'Moonglint'

December 30, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

An astronaut aboard the International Space Station took a nighttime photo showing "moonglint" between Florida and Cuba. This image highlights the moonlight reflecting on water, a view not visible from the ground. NASA shared the photo, which was taken on March 19, 2023.

Key Facts

An astronaut on the International Space Station (ISS) took the photo at 2:23 a.m. Eastern time on March 19.
"Moonglint" is the reflection of moonlight on a water surface, visible at certain angles.
The photo shows moonglint between the Florida peninsula and Cuba.
The International Space Station is about 248 miles above Earth.
The moon was in a waning phase with 78% illumination when the photo was taken.
Bright city lights are visible in the photo, including Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Havana.
The future of the ISS is uncertain due to geopolitical tensions, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Source Verification

Newsweek

Teen Who Faced Deportation Responds to Elon Musk Comment on Her Appearance

December 30, 2025 • Newsweek

Summary

A 19-year-old woman, Audrey Morris, avoided deportation from Denmark after issues with her visa. Elon Musk made controversial comments about her appearance, drawing criticism. Morris responded, expressing surprise that Musk focused on her looks instead of her academic achievements.

Key Facts

Audrey Morris is a 19-year-old from Los Angeles who moved to Denmark at age nine.
Danish authorities questioned her residency after she violated the conditions of her visa.
Morris eventually got a 10-year residency permit but was denied Danish citizenship.
Elon Musk commented on Morris's appearance, saying attractive people should avoid deportation.
The comments drew criticism on Musk's social media platform, X, with many calling them inappropriate.
Morris expressed surprise that Musk focused on her appearance rather than her achievements.
Her parents moved to Denmark for her mother’s PhD, and Morris faced the possibility of returning to the U.S. without them.
Musk’s past involvement with the Trump administration and comments on immigration have also been a subject of public debate.

Source Verification

Newsweek

Saudi-led coalition strikes Yemeni port over unauthorised weapons shipment

December 30, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The Saudi-led coalition conducted an airstrike on Mukalla port in Yemen, targeting weapons unloaded by two ships that did not have coalition permission. The coalition claims the operation aimed to prevent the use of military support by the Southern Transitional Council (STC) in the region. Authorities emphasize that there were no casualties and the action followed international humanitarian laws.

Key Facts

The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen carried out an airstrike at Mukalla port.
The strike targeted weapons and vehicles unloaded by two ships without coalition approval.
Coalition spokesperson said the ships turned off tracking systems and unloaded military supplies.
No casualties or damage outside the target area were reported.
The situation follows increased tension between the STC and Yemeni government forces.
The Saudi-backed Yemeni presidential council called for UAE forces to leave Yemen within 24 hours.
The STC was part of the coalition against the Houthis in 2015 but now seeks self-rule.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged for diplomacy to resolve the situation.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera

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