Taleb publicly renounced Islam and declared himself an atheist, a stance that is not only controversial but also dangerous in Saudi Arabia, where apostasy can result in severe penalties. He cited these risks as the basis for seeking political asylum in Germany, which was granted in 2016.
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Federal immigration agents searched for Ranjani Srinivasan, a Columbia University student, whose visa got revoked without a clear explanation. Labelled as a terrorist sympathiser by the state department, she fled to Canada. Her situation links to past protests on campus, despite lacking any convictions.
The dismantling of the Black Lives Matter Plaza in Washington, DC, has commenced. DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, under pressure from Congressional Republicans, announced the reconstruction effort. The plaza, a significant symbol of racial justice activism, is set to evolve into something new after serving as a focal point for protests and memorials for over four years.
Hamas reported that an Israeli airstrike killed five of its senior officials, including Essam Addalees, Ahmed Al-Hetta, Mahmoud Abu Watfa, and Bahjat Abu Sultan. Additionally, Palestinian Islamic Jihad spokesperson Naji Abu Saif and his wife were also killed in the attack.
Russia launched a massive missile attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure early Friday, one of the largest strikes of the war, according to President Zelensky. The attack involved missiles and drones, including at least one from North Korea. Ukraine managed to intercept many of the missiles, but several regions experienced power outages.
Kate Middleton reached out to Lady Gabriella Windsor after her husband’s tragic passing, inviting her to help plan the annual Christmas carol concert. Lady Gabriella contributed by selecting musical performances and felt honored by Middleton’s gesture. The event aimed to celebrate individuals who support those in need and featured various artists and community members.
A UN report estimates that up to 1,400 people were killed in Bangladesh during a six-week crackdown on student-led protests against former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Security forces allegedly committed extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and torture, possibly amounting to crimes against humanity. The protests, initially against a job quota system, escalated into a major uprising, leading to Hasina’s ousting and flight to India. The UN investigation was conducted at the request of... Expand
US President Donald Trump announced 25% tariffs on imports from countries purchasing Venezuelan oil and gas, potentially affecting India, China, and others. These tariffs aim to exert economic pressure on Venezuela, which Trump accuses of hostility and other malpractices. The tariffs, effective from April 2, coincide with his broader plan for reciprocal tariffs on other nations.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas downplayed concerns about unidentified drones sighted over New Jersey, stating they pose no current threat. Despite President-elect Trump's call to down the drones, Mayorkas cited limited authority to intervene, emphasizing the need for expanded legal powers to address drone activity. The Pentagon has also denied foreign involvement.
Senator Mitt Romney acknowledges that the Republican Party is now synonymous with Donald Trump and his MAGA movement. Despite past criticisms, Romney believes Trump deserves a chance and credits him for attracting working-class voters. Ahead of his retirement from Congress, he said JD Vance should be the presidential candidate in 2028.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa vowed continued support for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after 14 South African soldiers were killed in ongoing conflict with Rwanda-backed M23 fighters. Despite calls for withdrawal from political groups like the Economic Freedom Fighters, Ramaphosa emphasized South Africa's commitment to peace efforts and called for a ceasefire. The Southern African development community (SADC) mission, with South Africa leading, will continue until peace is... Expand