AMERICA
FBI Leadership, Climate Tax, Soccer Final, and Middle East Advisory Appointments
1. Kash Patel Nominated to Lead FBI
The appointment of Kash Patel, a loyal friend of President-elect Donald Trump, to head the FBI has come under fire for his credentials and impartiality. An ardent critic of the FBI, Patel has called for an organization-wide reform and the establishment of a “deep state.”. Trump’s selection indicates that he intends to replace current FBI Director Christopher Wray. Patel previously held significant positions in the Trump administration and has authored books that criticize political rivals.
2. Time to Tax Fossil Fuels for Climate Resilience
Rising sea levels and more frequent hurricanes are causing Grenada and other climate-affected regions to drown in debt. For the purpose of funding climate resilience, Avinash Persaud proposes levies on fossil fuels and transported goods. These funds could be used to support the loss and damage fund in vulnerable countries that are experiencing climate-related disasters. Over $100 billion is spent annually on climate change in developing nations, but the cost is borne by the emitters.
3. MLS Cup Final 2024: LA Galaxy vs NY Red Bulls
In their first MLS Cup final, the New York Red Bulls defeated Orlando City 1-0 and will now play the Los Angeles Galaxy on December 7. The Galaxy secured their spot with a 1-0 victory over the Seattle Sounders. After each team won their conference title, the LA Galaxy was granted home field advantage. After missing the MLS Cup final for ten years, the Galaxy will finally return.
4. Trump Appoints Massad Boulos as Arab and Middle East Adviser
Lebanese entrepreneur Massad Boulos has been appointed as President-elect Donald Trump’s special adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern issues. Boulos, Trump’s daughter Tiffany’s father-in-law, played a key role in the campaign’s attempts to draw in Arab Americans. Boulos’ business acumen and dedication to Middle East peace were praised by Trump. At this time, it is unknown exactly what the function’s scope is.
ASIA
Asia Faces Rising Tensions: Climate, Pollution, Legal and Military Issues
1. China Protests US Arms Sale to Taiwan
China vehemently opposes the United States’ clearance of a $385 million arms deal with Taiwan that includes radar and F-16 jet components. Beijing was even more incensed when the protest took place during Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s trip through Hawaii. China promises “resolute countermeasures” and charges the US with sabotaging ties and endorsing Taiwan’s autonomy.
2. Bangladesh Court Quashes 2004 Grenade Attack Convictions
Due to trial procedural flaws, a Bangladeshi court has reversed the convictions of Tarique Rahman and forty-eight other defendants in the 2004 grenade attack on former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Over two dozen persons were killed in an event at a political rally. The son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and a BNP leader, Rahman was declared guilty in absentia, but his acquittal has generated controversy. Despite the ruling, the victims’ relatives continue to pursue justice.
3. Afghanistan Calls for Future Climate Talk Participation
After attending COP29 in Baku, Afghanistan’s environment official Matiul Haq Khalis supported the inclusion of Afghanistan in future climate meetings. The Afghan team spoke with other nations about climate issues after being invited as guests. Afghanistan, which is extremely sensitive to climate change, is looking for foreign assistance to deal with its escalating climatic problems. Despite its political isolation, the Taliban regime encourages involvement.
4. Farm Fires Fuel Deadly Pollution in India
Despite the detrimental effects on soil fertility and air quality, Indian farmers, such as Ali Sher, burn agricultural stubble to make way for new crops. This unlawful activity exacerbates the already extreme air pollution in northern India, especially Delhi, by greatly adding to the toxic haze. Even while the government tries to offer alternatives, small-scale farmers nevertheless face financial difficulties and a lack of resources. India spends $95 billion a year on air pollution from field fires alone, which exacerbates environmental harm and health problems.
 MENA
Airstrikes in Syria and Gaza Target Civilians and Aid Workers
1. Syria Reinforces Aleppo Region After Rebel Attack
Following a surprise onslaught by rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham that took control of most of Aleppo, Syria’s military sent reinforcements to both Aleppo and northern Hama. Important regions, like as the Aleppo Industrial City, were also allegedly under the insurgents’ control. Three civilians were killed by government airstrikes that targeted Idlib, which was held by rebels. Despite opposition from rebel forces, Syrian President Assad pledged to protect Syria’s territorial integrity.
2. Israeli Airstrike Kills World Kitchen Workers in Gaza
At least two employees of World Central Kitchen (WCK) were among the five people murdered in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza. The Israeli military said the targeted workers were connected to the October 7 incident, while the charity denied any connection to Hamas. This event comes after seven workers were murdered in an airstrike on a WCK truck in April. Aid operations in Gaza are still under danger due to the continuous bombardment.
3. Russian Airstrikes Kill 8 Civilians in Idlib
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports that eight civilians, including two children and a woman, were killed by Russian airstrikes in Idlib, Syria, on Sunday. More than fifty individuals were injured when the airstrikes struck a camp for displaced people. The final significant resistance bastion in Syria is still Idlib. A significant rebel push against government forces coincides with this attack.
4. Russian Airstrikes Kill Five Near Aleppo University
Rami Abdel Rahman of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said at least five civilians were killed when four Russian aircraft struck a square close to Aleppo University. Whether the dead were members of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and affiliated groups or civilians is unknown. The attacks took place while fighting was still going on in northwest Syria.
 EUROPE
Protests in Georgia, Romania Elections, Storm in Greece, and Moscow’s Occupation in Donetsk
1. Georgia Protests Over EU Membership Suspension
As the administration halted EU accession negotiations, protests broke out throughout Georgia for the fourth night in a row. Criticising the ruling Georgian Dream party’s turn towards Russia, protesters denounced police brutality and called for fresh elections. President Salome Zurabishvili declared the election results invalid, while Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze denied calls for a rematch. The US and EU, who are worried about Georgia’s departure from Europe, are supporting the turmoil.
2. Romania Exit Polls: Euro-Atlantic Forces Lead
The ruling Social-Democrats have 26% of the vote in Romania’s legislative elections, while the ultra-nationalist AUR has 19%. According to exit polls, Romania’s Euro-Atlantic policies will continue as pro-EU, pro-NATO, and pro-Ukraine factions are expected to hold a majority. Nevertheless, a robust backlash is anticipated from anti-EU groups. As ultranationalist sentiment grew, more people cast ballots in the election.
3. Storm Bora in Greece Causes Deaths and Damage
At least two people have died as a result of Storm Bora’s severe weather, which has affected the northeast, central regions, and Athens. The storm has also caused flash floods and extreme weather, including strong gusts and torrential rains. The victims were hit by the storm and ranged in age from 57 to 70. In Rhode Island, severe flooding caused significant infrastructure damage and forced evacuations. Emergency services remain on high alert as the storm continues.
4. Moscow Claims Occupation of Two Settlements in Donetsk
President Putin approved record military spending for 2025 at the same time as Russia’s defence ministry declared the occupation of two settlements in Ukraine’s Donetsk area. The ministry made public video of FPV drones attacking Ukrainian targets. Eleven civilians were murdered and fifty-one injured by Russian drone strikes throughout Ukraine, while a minibus attack in Kherson claimed three lives.
