AMERICA
Global Acts of Violence, Liberation, Faith, and Political Contrast
1. Man Accused of Setting Woman on Fire in NYC Subway
Sebastian Zapeta, 33, faces two murder charges and one arson charge for setting a woman on fire inside a New York City subway train. Authorities say he used a shirt to fan the flames, leading to the woman’s death. Zapeta, a Guatemalan citizen who reentered the U.S. illegally after being deported in 2018, remains in jail awaiting trial. Police are under scrutiny for their delayed response during the incident.
2. Chinese Workers Rescued from ‘Slavery-like’ Conditions at BYD Construction Site in Brazil
163 Chinese workers were rescued from abusive conditions at a BYD electric vehicle factory site in Camaçari, Brazil. Hired by Jinjiang Construction Brazil, they had their passports confiscated and wages withheld. BYD has terminated its contract with the company and is providing accommodations for the workers. The situation included poor sanitation and excessive working hours.
3. Denzel Washington Gets Baptized and Receives Minister’s License
Denzel Washington was baptized at the Kelly Temple Church in Harlem, New York, just days before his 70th birthday. The actor also received a minister’s license, allowing him to potentially be ordained in the future. Despite Hollywood’s reluctance to discuss religion, Washington expressed his unafraid stance on sharing his faith. He is also expected to receive an Oscar nomination for his role in Gladiator II.
4. Biden and Trump Deliver Contrasting Christmas Messages
Outgoing President Joe Biden called for unity and reflection in a Christmas message, emphasizing love, dignity, and shared blessings in America. Meanwhile, incoming President Donald Trump extended holiday greetings but criticized political opponents and controversially suggested Canada could become the 51st U.S. state. The starkly different tones highlight their divergent approaches to leadership.
ASIA
Airstrikes, Missile Incident, and Airline Tragedy in Central Asia
1. Pakistani Airstrikes Kill 46 in Eastern Afghanistan
Pakistani airstrikes in Paktika province, Afghanistan, reportedly killed 46 people, mostly women and children, according to Taliban officials. The attack targeted what Pakistan claimed was a training facility for insurgents. The Taliban government condemned the strikes, which are expected to heighten tensions between the two countries. The Pakistani military later reported killing 13 insurgents in a separate operation.
2. Likely Air-Defence Missile Behind Azerbaijan Airlines Crash
An Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, on December 25, 2024, killing 38 of the 67 on board. Investigation suggests the plane may have been accidentally struck by a Russian air-defence missile near Grozny. The crash followed a sudden course change due to bad weather, and survivors were hospitalized. Azerbaijan Airlines is monitoring the investigation closely.
3. Azerbaijani Airliner Crashes in Kazakhstan
An Azerbaijani airliner crashed in Aktau, Kazakhstan, with more than 30 survivors among the 67 passengers on board. The crash, which left dozens likely dead, is under investigation. Authorities continue the search and rescue operation, and survivors, including children, have been hospitalized. The cause of the crash is still being determined.
MENA
Middle East Tensions: Bethlehem’s Christmas, Ceasefire Talks, and Military Incidents
1. Bethlehem’s Somber Christmas Amid War
Bethlehem marked a quiet Christmas as the ongoing war in Gaza cast a shadow over celebrations. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa led Midnight Mass at the Church of Nativity, emphasizing hope despite divisions. Tourism and festivities remained subdued, while leaders called for peace, justice, and an end to the occupation. The city yearned for the return of pilgrims and brighter days ahead.
2. Ceasefire Talks Between Israel and Hamas Face Delays
Israel and Hamas are close to a ceasefire agreement to end the 14-month war, but sticking points remain, including the exchange of hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Both sides accuse each other of complicating negotiations. Hostage families are urging a ceasefire, fearing further delays may endanger lives. If reached, the agreement would include hostages’ release, a halt in fighting, and aid to Gaza.
3. Qatar 365 Highlights for 2024
Qatar 365’s final episode of 2024 showcases key innovations, including driverless buses and AI in fashion and transport. The episode also features inspiring women breaking societal norms in science and sports. Highlights include a visit to Meryal Waterpark, Qatar’s largest, and ‘watsu’ therapy at Zulal Wellness Resort.
4. Israeli Military Intercepts Missile from Yemen
The Israeli military reported intercepting a missile launched from Yemen, likely linked to escalating regional tensions. No casualties or damages were reported in the incident. This comes amidst heightened security concerns in the region. Investigations are ongoing to determine the missile’s origin and intent.
EUROPE
Global Crises: Christmas Day Strikes, Peace Appeals, Protests, and Weather Disruptions
1. Russia’s Christmas Day Missile Strikes on Ukraine
On Christmas Day, Russia launched a massive missile and drone attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, including over 70 rockets and 100 drones. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy condemned the attack as inhumane, highlighting its deliberate timing on Christmas. Ukraine shot down many missiles, but strikes on power plants led to widespread outages. The attacks targeted cities like Kharkiv, sparking fires and causing casualties.
2. Pope Francis Urges Peace on Christmas Day
On Christmas Day, Pope Francis called for global reconciliation and an end to divisions and violence. Addressing issues from war and hunger to persecution, he urged the silencing of arms, particularly in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Gaza. The Pope also renewed calls for the release of hostages taken by Hamas. His message coincided with the start of the 2025 Holy Year dedicated to hope.
3. Serbian Students Protest Train Station Awning Collapse
Serbian students protested in Belgrade, demanding justice for the 15 deaths caused by a train station awning collapse in Novi Sad on November 1, 2024. They blamed corruption and poor construction work, with widespread support from the public. Prosecutors arrested 13 individuals, including a minister, but public skepticism remains. The protests reflect broader discontent with President Aleksandar Vučić’s government.
4. Heavy Snowstorms Disrupt Balkans
Severe snowstorms across the Balkans left over 150,000 homes without power, disrupting traffic and cutting off access to some towns. Bosnia, Serbia, and Croatia restricted heavy vehicle movement, while western Bosnia faced water and heating shortages. Schools were shut, and Drvar declared an emergency due to blocked roads. In Slovenia, a rescue mission in the Alps was halted by strong winds.
