The USCIS will implement new regulations for H-1B and H-2 visas starting January 17, 2025, to modernize requirements and enhance flexibility and supervision. The updates redefine H-1B specialty occupations and introduce penalties for H-2 rule violations, with President-elect Trump expressing support for the H-1B program.
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Prince William and Kate, along with their children, began Christmas celebrations early at their Norfolk home after a challenging year marked by Kate's cancer battle and King Charles's own health issues. The family prioritized quiet time together before joining the royal family for Christmas Day. Despite the difficulties, the couple is focused on their future roles and supporting each other.
Law enforcement agencies in Pakistan’s Punjab province arrested 20 alleged Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorists, including one Sikh individual. Punjab Police's Counter-Terrorism Department recovered a significant amount of explosives, detonators, and IED bombs, and thwarted plans to attack significant buildings in Lahore and other cities.
Mangione's attorney Thomas Dickey claimed that while cops were interrogating him, they gave him food which was a ploy to get his DNA samples. Dickey said the DNA samples were "poisonous fruits" as they were obtained illegally. They said the cops who approached Mangione on the morning of December 9, five days after Thompson was murdered, had no proper legal reason to do so, it was just a hunch.
US defense secretary Pete Hegseth defended President Trump's decision to initiate peace talks with Putin, dismissing concerns of betraying Ukraine. He emphasized that peace requires compromises and stated Ukraine is unlikely to regain all its land or join Nato. European leaders criticized Washington for making concessions before negotiations and insisted that Ukraine and Europe must be involved. Nato leaders stressed that any deal must be lasting and fair to Kyiv.
Federal agents have discovered over 150 explosive devices and arrested Virginia man Brad Spafford for possessing an unregistered short-barreled rifle. The investigation, initiated by a neighbor's tip, uncovered Spafford's extensive collection and far-right extremist beliefs, marking the FBI's biggest find of 'finished explosive devices.'
President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Jacob Helberg as Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment. Helberg, a senior advisor at Palantir and a China hawk, will focus on advancing American economic interests and technological dominance abroad, reflecting Trump's 'America First' foreign policy.
A federal judge reviews the Justice Department's motion to dismiss corruption charges against Mayor Eric Adams, while Governor Kathy Hochul considers his removal. Adams, proclaiming his innocence, continues his mayoral duties. The charges allege conspiracy and bribery, with debate over priority for Adams to focus on city issues like illegal immigration and crime.
US President-elect Donald Trump congratulated Republican Mike Johnson on being re-elected as House Speaker, emphasizing Johnson's potential to be a great leader. Trump's endorsement highlighted Johnson's support within the Republican Party and his ability to deliver common sense and strength, which Americans have been waiting for. Johnson secured his role after overcoming initial opposition within his party.
The Justice Department released documents about Jeffrey Epstein, revealing his associations with high-profile individuals. The release did not provide new significant details, leaving many disappointed. The FBI promised full transparency and further revelations might follow.
Syria's new authorities launched a security operation in Tartous after the killing of 14 policemen. The crackdown targets remnants of Assad's militias, with the new leadership aiming to maintain stability. Protests in Homs, involving Alawite and Shi'ite communities, also led to an overnight curfew. Iran has been urged to respect Syria's sovereignty amidst these tensions.