President-elect Trump surprised China by inviting President Xi Jinping to his upcoming inauguration, amid expected trade war tensions. The invitation comes after a massive hack of U.S. telecom companies by Chinese hackers. Experts weigh in on the potential implications of the invitation and the ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China.
Top Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar died in Gaza. Other major international figures who died in 2024 include Alexei Navalny, Iranian President Raisi, Ismail Haniyeh, and Hassan Nasrallah.
The story follows NPR journalist Diaa Hadid's personal experience with her father's detainment by Syrian forces in Lebanon during the civil war, shedding light on the political turmoil in the region and the impact on her family. It concludes with the eventual downfall of President Bashar al-Assad's rule in Syria.
Historic week in Syria as rebels take control of Damascus, Assad family flees to Russia, and thousands of political prisoners are released. People celebrate newfound freedom but also grieve for missing loved ones. Future uncertain as Islamist group leads the de facto government.
Syrian factories have turned into secret drug labs to fund Bashar Al-Assad's regime.
A young Iraqi woman shares her story of being sold into marriage at age 11, facing abuse and exploitation, and working as a sex worker in Erbil. Proposed amendments to Iraq's Personal Status Law could legalize marriage for girls as young as 9, raising concerns about child marriage and exploitation.
Syria sees a dramatic shift as rebels topple President Bashar al-Assad, leading to celebrations and hope for the future but also concerns about stability and the rise of extremist groups. The international community watches closely as the country faces a new chapter of uncertainty.
Canada is experiencing a significant surge in deaths by euthanasia, with an increase of 15.8% over the previous year. Health Canada's MAID report shows euthanasia accounting for nearly 5% of total deaths in the country last year.
The Palestinian terrorist group Hamas inflated the death count from the war in Gaza, including natural deaths and cancer patients, with a new report highlighting misclassification of genders and ages in the data. Global media outlets relied heavily on these exaggerated figures to vilify Israel.
An American couple was fatally shot while on vacation in Mexico. The wife, 50, was found dead and the husband, 53, died at the hospital. The U.S. State Department warns of widespread violent crime in Mexico.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached after trying to impose martial law, leading to celebrations by protesters. The Constitutional Court will decide whether to remove Yoon in the next six months.
Turkey's Baykar dominates global UAV market with 65% control, led by chief technology officer Selcuk Bayraktar. Company credited for rapid rise in drone technology, including development of revolutionary Bayraktar TB series. Recent achievements include TB-3's ability to take off and land from ships with short runways. Baykar also exports drones to multiple countries, causing tensions with rival India. Baykar's TB2 drones have accumulated over one million flight hours, surpassing milestone.
Syrians celebrate the downfall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, expressing joy and hope for a new future for their country.
Rebel forces in Syria seized the capital from longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad, who fled the country to Russia. The rebel group now in power, Hay'at Tahrir al Sham (HTS), is designated a terrorist organization by the US, raising concerns of a new autocratic regime. The Syrian revolution is part of a broader pattern in the Middle East and North Africa where revolutions against autocrats often lead to chaos or oppressive rule.
Over 100,000 people have gone missing in Syria under the regime of Bashar al-Assad. Families are now searching for their loved ones as the regime has fallen.
A young Missouri man named Travis Timmerman, who entered Syria from Lebanon, was freed from a Syrian prison and handed over to U.S. forces near the Syrian border with Iraq and Jordan. Timmerman spent seven months in detention and reflected on his life and faith during his time in prison. He was found walking barefoot in a Damascus suburb after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime.
South Korea's parliament votes to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol over controversial martial law decree, causing political turmoil. Yoon's powers suspended pending Constitutional Court decision. Public protests and rallies for and against Yoon. Investigation ongoing for rebellion allegations.
South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol impeached for attempting to impose martial law, triggering political chaos and protests. Prime Minister to take over as acting president pending Constitutional Court ruling. President vows to continue fighting despite isolation and investigation.
The fall of the Assad regime in Syria has freed thousands of people detained in Syria's prisons, with some reuniting with their families while others are still missing.
David Miliband, CEO of the International Rescue Committee, discusses the group's 2025 Watchlist highlighting that over 300 million people need humanitarian aid.
Syrian-American composer Malek Jandali discusses the fall of the dictatorship in Syria and his hopes for the country's future with NPR's Scott Simon.
Iran faces challenges after collapse of Syrian regime, U.S. colleges advise international students to return before Inauguration Day, New Jersey residents puzzled by drones in night skies, scientists discover neurons in abdomen controlling digestion, NPR highlights weekend entertainment picks, Indian grandmaster wins chess championship.
The U.S. government condemns Taliban for suspending medical education for women in Afghanistan, sparking outrage and concerns about women's rights and healthcare. The Taliban's directive jeopardizes the health and well-being of Afghan women and girls.
The Department of Justice accused 14 North Korean nationals of conspiring to use false identities to get IT jobs with U.S. companies and siphon money back to their home country in violation of U.S. sanctions, generating at least $88 million between 2017 and 2023. They face up to 27 years in prison if convicted.
U.S. airman stationed in Japan sentenced to 5 years in prison for kidnapping and sexually assaulting a minor. The incident took place at Kadena Air Base on the Japanese island of Okinawa. The airman engaged in sexual acts with the minor without her consent, despite being aware of her age. Sexual intercourse with people under 16 is illegal in Japan regardless of consent.
American journalist Austin Tice was held in a Syrian prison cell, as reported by an ex-prisoner who last saw him in July 2022. Tice was in somewhat good condition, able to walk and communicate, but his whereabouts remain a mystery.
Pressure from President-elect Donald Trump played a role in Hamas making concessions during cease-fire and hostage release talks with Israel. The Biden administration is working towards closing a critical pact by the end of 2024. Recent developments in the region have also influenced Hamas' compromise.
President-elect Donald Trump's national security team is working on finding a way to end the war with Russia in Ukraine but faces challenges due to mixed signals and Russian forces gaining ground. Discussions have been held with Ukrainian leaders but a specific peace plan has not been presented yet.
The United States and China have renewed a decades-old agreement on science and technology cooperation, adding safeguards to address national security risks and advancing U.S. interests through transparency and data reciprocity.
Dozens of Palestinians, including 10 children, were killed in Gaza by an Israeli airstrike targeting a 'senior terrorist.'
A 71-year-old man in France is on trial for allegedly drugging his wife and inviting dozens of strangers to rape her in their home, shocking the country.
Hamas agreed to concessions, raising hopes for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release, with a potential agreement expected within weeks or even days.
Survivors of a chemical weapons attack in Syria under the Bashar al-Assad regime speak out more than eleven years after the incident.
Syria's former president, Bashar al-Assad, and his family were forced to flee to Russia after being swept from power by rebels. The opulent palaces they left behind reveal the luxurious lifestyle they led while inflicting terror and poverty on the Syrian people.
Farida Ahmadi and her cousin Zohra fled Afghanistan to Portugal after the Taliban regained control, shutting down their music school and imposing strict laws. Despite the challenges, they continue to pursue their passion for music and hope to return home one day.
Missouri man imprisoned in Syria after crossing into the country on a 'pilgrimage' to Damascus is unexpectedly recovered after seven months, hailed as a 'Christmas miracle' by family and friends
Israel orders troops to prepare for extended stay on strategic peak in Syria amid ongoing conflict and tensions in the region. The U.S. defends Israel's actions in Syria. Israel faces backlash over occupation of Golan Heights. Rebel groups celebrate ousting of President Assad in Syria. Concerns over Israel's actions in Syria arise as Israeli forces continue campaign in Gaza.
Travis Timmerman, a missing Missouri man, was unexpectedly found in Syria after crossing into the country for a pilgrimage. He was flown out by the U.S. military to Jordan. His family was relieved to hear he was alive and well.
Israeli airstrike in Gaza kills at least 36 people, including women and children, leaving families torn apart and communities devastated. The conflict has resulted in approximately 45,000 deaths, with a high percentage being women and children. Children in Gaza are experiencing extreme trauma and distress.
Satellite images show Russian forces dismantling military equipment at key bases in Syria, indicating potential military withdrawal after Assad's overthrow by rebels. Russia is grappling with losing a key ally and influence in the Middle East.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol impeached over failed martial law attempt, causing chaos in the country. Impeachment vote followed by suspension from state duties. Constitutional Court to decide on upholding impeachment. Public support for Yoon at record low. Political turmoil in South Korea continues with potential legal issues for other politicians. North Korea seizes on turmoil, accusing opposition of sympathizing with them.
European countries are offering cash payments to Syrian refugees to encourage them to return home, triggering mixed reactions from politicians and religious leaders. Austria offers 1,000 euros, Germany is considering the same, while Denmark offers up to 27,000 euros per adult. The UK is taking a cautious approach.
Jihadi rebels in Syria have suspended the national constitution and parliament for a three-month transition period, during which a new constitution will be created. The al-Qaeda splinter group HTS has established a 'Salvation Government' to administer the territory it occupies in northwestern Syria, with plans to preserve Syria's institutions and respect religious and cultural diversity.
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are preparing to engage with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, currently in charge of Syria. HTS recently took over Damascus, prompting Bashar Assad to flee to Russia. The SDF is reaching out to HTS as they face attacks from the Syrian National Army (SNA) backed by Turkey. The SDF is also concerned about the resurgence of ISIS in the region and the security of ISIS prisons under their control.
U.S. Special Envoy for Yemen Tim Lenderking stated that Houthi leaders are keeping low profiles due to recent events in the region. Despite this, the Houthis continue to launch attacks on ships. The U.S. is working to block weapons smuggling to the Houthis.
Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino urges President-elect Donald Trump to continue a deportation flight agreement signed with the outgoing Biden administration. The agreement aims to repatriate U.S.-bound illegal migrants caught passing through the dangerous Darién Gap.
The United States plans to introduce sanctions against Serbia's main gas supplier, which is controlled by Russia. Serbia heavily relies on Russian gas and is seeking to preserve friendly relations with both the U.S. and Russia. President Vucic is facing protests over a deadly accident and potential sanctions from the U.S.
Former soccer player Mikheil Kavelashvili becomes president of Georgia, leading to concerns about the country's EU aspirations and ties with Russia. The ruling party, Georgian Dream, is accused of rigging elections and leaning towards Moscow. Protests erupt as opposition demands new elections and criticizes government crackdown on freedoms.
Debanking of defense companies supplying Western militaries is causing concern among NATO leaders, who are urging the public to support investments in these companies. Campaigns to stop banks from financing defense firms are being felt, with implications for national security and innovation. ESG criteria and activist pressure are cited as reasons for banks dropping defense investments.
Switzerland plans to ban Nazi symbols due to a rise in anti-Semitism, proposing fines for those who break the law. The ban includes well-known symbols like the swastika and extends to more cryptic signs associated with Nazi ideology.
After rebels overthrew the Assad government in Syria, thousands of Syrians are searching for loved ones who disappeared into torture prisons. The atrocities committed under Assad's rule are coming to light, with thousands of detainees killed in prisons like Sednaya. Families are facing the grim reality that their missing relatives may never return home.
Nancy Pelosi, 84, fell down marble stairs in Luxembourg and fractured her hip during a trip to mark the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge. She will need a routine operation and all future events on the trip were canceled. Pelosi is currently receiving treatment and looks forward to returning home to the US soon.
An American couple was tragically executed while on vacation in Michoacán, Mexico. The couple, Rafael and Gloria Cardona, were shot to death in their pickup truck. The motive for the attack remains unknown. The region where the incident occurred has a history of violence associated with drug cartels. The U.S. Department of State is aware of the murders and has issued a travel advisory.
Oregon is the largest producer of Christmas trees in the United States, with Holiday Tree Farms being one of the top producers sending trees worldwide. The farm spans over 8,500 acres and harvests around 1 million trees annually, employing 600 workers during harvest season.
Pope Francis calls for migrants to be welcomed, encouraged, and integrated as Europe and the United States struggle with global mass migration. He praises groups like ResQ for protecting migrants at sea.
Steven Heydemann, Middle East Studies director at Smith College, discusses how Syria can avoid replicating Arab countries that are worse off after overthrowing dictators.
Richard Engel explores Bashar al-Assad's abandoned palace as the dictator flees Syria, ending over 50 years of the Assad family's rule.
A lynch mob in Mexico beat and hung three men accused of trying to break into a home and kidnap a 5-year-old girl. Lynchings are on the rise due to frustration with failed security strategies. Authorities arrived after the men were already hung.
Former South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun attempted suicide while in police detention following his resignation after President Yoon Suk-yeol's failed attempt to impose martial law. Kim faces charges of rebellion and abuse of power, could potentially face the death penalty, and has been accused of suggesting and planning the failed martial law. Other officials involved have also been arrested or suspended. President Yoon is facing impeachment.
A grandmother died after being pinned against a wall by her Sleep Number bed for two days, leading to a lawsuit against the company for negligence. The company is accused of not providing adequate warnings and a release mechanism on the bed.
Syrian rebel fighters destroyed the tomb of late president Hafez al-Assad, father of ousted president Bashar, in their family's hometown. The rebels, led by Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), ended the Assad dynasty's 54-year rule. Bashar al-Assad has fled to Russia where he and his family have been given asylum.
Farmers in central London protest against the government's decision to end an exemption from inheritance tax for agricultural families, leading to concerns about the future of family farms and food production.
Jonathan Dekel-Chen, whose son has been held captive for over a year, discusses the possibility of a deal for Hamas to release hostages. The recent U.S. elections and the return of Donald Trump to the White House have sparked debates about the impact on hostage situations. The article highlights the potential for Trump's administration to leverage relationships with Israel and powerful sponsors of Hamas to facilitate the release of hostages.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is facing insurrection charges after declaring martial law, with investigations closing in on him and key government and military figures. Despite calls for his resignation and impeachment attempts, President Yoon has refused to step down.
Saudi Arabia has been announced as the host of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, a controversial decision due to the country's human rights violations. Critics fear abuses of migrant workers and repression during the event.
Saudi Arabia was awarded the 2034 World Cup by FIFA, despite criticism of the country's human rights record. The decision has sparked concerns about potential exploitation and abuse of workers during the tournament.
Ukraine's President Zelensky praises Trump for determination in ending Russia's invasion, calls for world unity to support Kyiv against Moscow. Zelensky emphasizes Trump's decisiveness and the need for US funding to achieve peace. Talks of a potential deal for ceasefire and Ukrainian victory over Russia by returning to UN-recognized borders.
CSIS report reveals China may be using eavesdropping facilities in Cuba to conduct espionage on the United States. Satellite imagery shows upgrades and activity at four bases in Cuba. U.S. urged to monitor China's role in Cuba closely to reduce miscalculation.
Dr. Sebastian Gorka discusses the impact of the fall of the Assad regime in Syria on Iran, potential power shifts in the region, and the importance of strategic decisions for stability in the Middle East.
A new study reveals that nearly a billion people worldwide are living with genital herpes, with 42 million new cases annually. The infection poses serious health risks, contributes to HIV transmission, and has a substantial economic burden. There is no cure, only treatments to manage symptoms. Urgent action is needed for new prevention strategies, including vaccines and targeted therapies.
South Korea's opposition parties move to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol after his failed attempt to impose martial law, leading to condemnation from North Korea and a suicide attempt by South Korea's former defense minister.
Bipartisan efforts from senators call on President Biden to brief on efforts to free hostage Austin Tice from Syria amid changing dynamics. Multiple rewards offered for information on Tice's whereabouts.
Syrians celebrate the fall of the Assad regime, with rebels taking control of the country. Exiles return, statues of Assad are torn down, and prisoners are freed. The world watches to see if the new leadership will bring positive change. European countries suspend asylum decisions for Syrian nationals.
Syria's new interim Prime Minister Mohammad al-Bashir has raised concerns by displaying a flag associated with Sunni Islamist fighters, leading to questions about the future of moderation and tolerance in the country. The rebel organization Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which led the charge into Damascus, is now overseeing Syria's political transformation. There are worries about the group's past ties to terrorism and its commitment to religious and sectarian diversity in the country.
Around 900 million people worldwide, or 24% of those under 50, have an incurable sexually transmitted infection (STI), with genital herpes being the most common. Experts warn of the lack of specific programs for prevention and control of these infections.
A U.S. intelligence assessment warns of Russia potentially using a new intermediate-range ballistic missile against Ukraine in the near future. The missile, named Oreshnik, was first used in an attack on Dnipro, Ukraine, carrying a smaller warhead than other Russian missiles. The attack raises concerns about escalating conflict and the involvement of NATO allies.
Under Syria's president, a vast jail complex in Damascus was notorious for making Syrians disappear without trial. Now, it is filled with families searching for their missing loved ones.
92-year-old Japanese survivor of the U.S. atomic bombing of Nagasaki accepted this year’s Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of his anti-nuclear weapons group. The organization, Nihon Hidankyo, has been battling for nearly 70 years to eliminate nuclear weapons globally.
A tech graduate charged with murder made multiple visits to Japan, expressing concerns about the lack of free will in the country. He proposed cultural solutions to Japan's demographic crisis, such as banning sex toys and promoting human interaction.
Kenyan police fired tear gas and arrested at least three protesters as hundreds of people - mostly women - demanded action against a wave of femicide cases in the country.
Mike Huckabee, the nominee for U.S. Ambassador to Israel, expresses concern about chemical weapons in Syria falling into the hands of rebels, stating they must be destroyed to prevent any group from accessing them.
Two women rescued from rubble after Russian missile strikes medical clinic in Ukraine, killing 8 and injuring 22. President Zelenskyy calls for more air defense systems from Western allies to protect against Russian missiles. Ukraine conducts long-range attacks on Russian territory. Claims from both sides are unverifiable.
The Royal Australian Navy successfully fired a Tomahawk Land Attack Cruise Missile for the first time, making Australia the third nation to do so after the U.S. and the U.K. The test was a major milestone in enhancing Australia's defense capabilities.
The United States has granted $20 billion in funds for Ukraine from frozen Russian assets as part of a $50 billion G7 support package. This comes as President-elect Donald Trump has indicated he wants an immediate settlement between the two combatants rather than funding a never-ending war.
President Macron is attempting to form a new government in France after his second government collapsed. He is seeking to create a coalition without relying on Marine Le Pen's National Rally party. The political landscape in France remains uncertain.
Russian citizens advised not to travel to the United States, Canada, and some EU countries due to confrontational relations with the US. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman warns of being 'hunted' by US authorities.
Israel carried out intense airstrikes into Syria following the fall of Bashar Assad's government. Israeli forces advanced into Syria, targeting strategic weapons stockpiles and destroying Syria's navy. Israel aims to establish a demilitarized zone in southern Syria to prevent terrorism. Syrian opposition fighters have taken control, leading to a new transitional cabinet under Mohammed al-Bashir. Life in Damascus is slowly returning to normal, with banks and shops reopening. Israel's incursion has been condemned by Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, and U.N. has called for upholding the 1974 disengagement agreement.
U.S. Navy destroyers successfully shot down Houthi missiles and drones for the second time in a month while transiting the Gulf of Aden. The attacks reflect the ongoing commitment of CENTCOM forces to protect U.S. personnel and international shipping against Iran-backed Houthis.
The article discusses the pros and cons of the Paris climate agreement and provides arguments against the U.S. rejoining the agreement. It highlights concerns about loss of sovereignty, impact on energy policy, and the effectiveness of renewable energy sources.
Former CIA Station Chief Dan Hoffman comments on Syrian rebels toppling the Assad regime and implications for national security. Assad's regime was responsible for mass atrocities, including killing 500,000 Syrians, dropping barrel bombs, and using chemical weapons. Recent overthrow of Assad is seen as a cause for relief but challenges remain for long-term stability.
Former South Korean defense minister attempted suicide while in detention over president's martial law declaration, which led to a second impeachment vote. President Yoon Suk Yeol apologized for the declaration and faces potential criminal charges.
American journalist Austin Tice, who was abducted in Syria over 12 years ago, may still be alive according to recent information. U.S. officials are working to locate and bring him home following the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Tice's family remains hopeful and committed to his safe return.
Syrian rebels have overthrown one of the oldest dictatorships in the world after a long struggle, including more than a decade of civil war. Former president Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia. Rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani is negotiating a transition with Assad's prime minister. Israel is bombing Iranian and Hezbollah targets in Syria to destroy chemical weapons sites.
China's secretive military appears to be conducting training exercises around Taiwan, deploying a dozen naval ships and 47 military planes without live-fire activity. Taiwan is monitoring the situation closely, as China's activities signal a message of claiming ownership over the Taiwan Strait.
South Korea's previous defense minister attempted suicide while in detention over the recent martial law declaration by President Yoon Suk Yeol. The president's actions have caused political paralysis, foreign policy issues, and financial market instability, leading to increased calls for his impeachment.
The ousting of Bashar al-Assad in Syria has led to a power vacuum filled by Islamist rebels, reshaping the geopolitics of the region. The situation on the ground is complex and unpredictable. Ethnic and religious tensions complicate the transition. Experts highlight the importance of building consensus, inclusivity, and avoiding bloodshed. The aftermath of the U.S. invasion of Iraq serves as a cautionary tale. Various stakeholders, including Israel, Jordan, the U.S., Russia, and Iran, are closely monitoring the developments in Syria.
Islamist-led rebels took Damascus in a lightning offensive on December 8, ousting president Bashar al-Assad and ending five decades of Baath rule in Syria. Syrians are adjusting to their new reality after living under a brutal dictatorship for a generation.
Syrians contemplate challenges facing the war-torn country, authorities search social media posts of suspect accused of killing a health care CEO, courts halt Kroger-Albertsons grocery merger.
U.S. wildlife officials decide to extend federal protections to monarch butterflies due to shrinking populations and threats from climate change. Monarchs are proposed to be listed as threatened species, prohibiting killing or transporting them. Critical habitat in California designated for protection. Populations are declining due to climate change, agricultural expansion, and herbicides affecting milkweed, their main food source.
Syrian refugees around the world express shock and jubilation as President Bashar al-Assad flees, hoping for a new beginning for their homeland after years of brutal rule. Some cautiously optimistic about the future under Islamist rebels now in control, while others eagerly anticipate the possibility of returning to Syria.