Once again, Ali Ghulam receives mourners at his home -- his brother and nephew killed 40 years apart in the same sectarian conflict that was reignited this year in northwest Pakistan, claiming 200 lives since July alone. - 'Murdered my dreams' - Ghulam's nephew was killed along with at least 42 others last month, when Sunni gunmen opened fire on a convoy of Shiites being escorted by the police to their homes.
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Joe Biden will travel to South Carolina on Sunday, his last full day as US president, where he will mark a national holiday honoring civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. Biden will visit Royal Missionary Baptist Church in Charleston, where he will attend services and speak about "the continued fight to make Dr King's dream a reality," a White House official said. The White House said Biden's "last official trip as president... will continue his long relationship with the state of South... Expand
Israel freed Ahmad Manasra, a Palestinian. He was involved in an attack as a 13-year-old and developed schizophrenia while incarcerated. Palestinians claim harsh imprisonment caused his mental illness. He was convicted of attempted murder. Appeals for early release were denied. Rights groups highlight worsening prison conditions. Recently released Palestinian prisoners appeared unwell.
The Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged, indicating potential future cuts. Economic growth is slowing, and inflation persists above the 2% target, currently at 2.5%. Tariffs are influencing inflation through higher import costs. The Fed will reinvest more in Treasury securities to stabilize markets. Consumer sentiment is cautious as inflation may rise to 3% by year-end, driven by import taxes.
In Big Horn County, Wyoming, Tranyelle Harshman shot her four daughters, killing three and critically injuring one before taking her own life. Authorities revealed Harshman had severe mental health issues. A fundraiser has been launched to help cover medical expenses for the surviving 7-year-old girl.
Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s first president who led the country to independence from apartheid South Africa in 1990, has died at 95. Nujoma, a key figure in Namibia’s liberation and long-time leader of SWAPO, passed away after a three-week illness, leaving a significant legacy in African history.
Qatar, Egypt, and the US announced a ceasefire and hostage release agreement between Israel and Hamas to begin on January 19. The deal involves three stages: release of hostages, halting military operations, and significant humanitarian aid, with the long-term goal of rebuilding Gaza and lifting the blockade.
A gas station explosion in the Zaher district of Bayda province, Yemen, caused a massive fire, resulting in at least 15 deaths and injuring 67 people, 40 critically. The area is controlled by Houthi rebels, who have been in conflict with Yemen’s government since 2014, leading to severe humanitarian crises.
US President Donald Trump has approved the UK-Mauritius deal over the Chagos Islands, allowing Britain to transfer sovereignty while leasing Diego Garcia for a 99-year term. The deal is nearing finalisation after months of US discussions. Criticism surrounds the potential £18 billion cost and geopolitical implications. However, UK officials ensured no expense to US taxpayers.
Harvard University and other top US institutions are facing major financial disruptions due to President Trump's federal funding cuts and policy changes. As mass firings, hiring freezes, and halted programs take effect, the US scientific enterprise's future remains uncertain and other countries seek to attract American talent.
A 29-year-old Canadian woman was arrested at Auckland International Airport on December 8 for attempting to smuggle nearly 10 kilograms of methamphetamine, disguised as Christmas presents. The drugs, with an estimated street value exceeding $2 million, were discovered in her carry-on bag.