Finland has been named the world's happiest country for the eighth consecutive year, according to the 2025 World Happiness Report. Nordic countries dominate the top positions, with Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden following closely. Meanwhile, the United States slipped to its lowest ranking at No. 24, amidst growing concerns over declining happiness in parts of Europe and North America.
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China unveiled its advanced amphibious assault ship, the Type 076 vessel named Sichuan, in Shanghai. The ship, equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system, enhances China's naval combat capabilities. This marks progress despite corruption issues within the PLA. The Sichuan will now undergo tests and sea trials to further bolster its operational readiness.
Israel said Wednesday it would keep blocking humanitarian aid from entering Gaza, where a relentless military offensive has turned the Palestinian territory into a "mass grave", a medical charity reported. "Gaza has been turned into a mass grave of Palestinians and those coming to their assistance," said MSF coordinator Amande Bazerolle.
King Charles is reportedly frustrated by Prince Andrew's association with an alleged Chinese spy, impacting the monarchy's reputation. The Palace lacks authority to investigate Andrew's finances, including funds from Chinese donors for his Royal Lodge residence. MI5 barred the alleged spy, who had access to royal properties, raising concerns and overshadowing the King's Christmas message.
Millions of Americans are migrating to the Chinese lifestyle app RedNote as a TikTok ban looms. This platform has become a hub for US-China cultural exchange filled with memes, jokes, and candid conversations. The app's unique global interface encourages direct interaction between users from both nations, challenging assumptions and fostering digital diplomacy.
​The US-Canada border runs across the floor of the library but its entrance is on the American side. The back door is on the Canadian side and those who do not have a library card will have to use the back door now. ​​US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said the divide is about to become more pronounced in the coming days as only library card holders and employees will be allowed to cross over from Canada to enter through the main gate on the US side.
Israel's ultranationalist security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, visited the Al-Aqsa mosque compound, challenging longstanding rules about non-Muslim prayer at the sensitive site. This visit comes amid heightened tensions following Hamas' recent attack and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Ben-Gvir's actions have previously ignited violence and drawn criticism, yet the official Israeli stance maintains the traditional restrictions.
An Australian hospital is reviewing patient records after a nurse claimed online to have killed Israelis, though no evidence of patient harm has been found. The incident is part of rising antisemitic crimes in Australia. Two nurses in Sydney were suspended after making hateful remarks in a video. Authorities are investigating potential hate speech violations, while officials reassured the Jewish community of continued quality medical care.
King Charles III expresses deep sorrow over the death of Edward Pettifer, a British relative of his sons' former nanny, in the New Orleans truck-ramming incident. Prince William and Princess Kate also conveyed their condolences. The Pettifer family described Edward as a beloved family member tragically lost.
As Pete Hegseth reached the Pentagon Monday morning starting his new job as the defense secretary of the Trump administration, he said, "Every moment that I'm here, I'm thinking about the guys and gals in Guam, in Germany, in Fort Benning, and Fort Bragg, on missile defense sites, and aircraft carriers. Our job is lethality and readiness and warfighting."
Australia’s spy agency ASIO uncovered three foreign governments plotting to harm individuals in the country, intervening to prevent attacks. It also disrupted a cyber unit targeting US and Australian infrastructure and alerted US authorities to a 12-year-old planning mass shootings. Additionally, foreign spies are targeting Australia’s AUKUS partnership to gather intelligence and undermine alliances. ASIO remains vigilant against these security threats.