Turkey has detained 125 suspected Islamic State members in nationwide raids across 25 provinces. These operations follow a deadly clash in Yalova where three police officers and six IS members were killed. The interior minister vowed to confront those threatening national unity with state might.
Hong Kong will forgo its iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks for the first time in years, mourning the 161 lives lost in a devastating November fire. Instead, a music show and a light display will mark the transition to 2026. This somber decision follows past cancellations due to tragedies, highlighting the city’s sensitivity to loss.
Traders have warned of a nationwide shutdown on January 16 if the government does not withdraw mandatory POS machine installation. Protesting in Islamabad, they accused tax authorities of harassing small businesses and demanded Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s intervention.
A viral post on X falsely claimed Belle Delphine was dead, stemming from an old collaboration photo with YouTuber twomad. While twomad passed away in February 2024, Belle Delphine remains alive and active on social media, with no news outlets reporting her death. The resurfaced images have led to misleading claims online.
YouTube star IShowSpeed has embarked on a 28-day IRL streaming tour across nearly 20 African countries, starting in Angola. His first day featured a viral sand art tribute, a football match against 100 kids, a pull-up challenge, a street race that went awry, and a thrilling drifting session, all captivating viewers worldwide.
Mehek Cooke, an Indian-born Republican lawyer and strategist, is gaining national attention for her outspoken views on Medicaid fraud and conservative policy. Raised in Ohio, Cooke’s dual heritage and prominent media presence spark discussions about identity and political alignment within the Republican party, particularly concerning immigration and cultural debates.
Kuwait has introduced new residency rules capping expat stays abroad at six months, aiming to manage its population. However, long-term visas for investors and property owners offer extended stays. Stricter rules apply to domestic workers, with new fees and penalties for overstays. The nation is also digitizing immigration services and cracking down on visa trading.
Russia claims its stance on peace deals will harden after an alleged Ukrainian drone attack on President Putin’s residence, a charge Kyiv denies, calling it a fabricated claim with no evidence. India’s Prime Minister Modi expressed concern and urged restraint, emphasizing diplomacy as the path to peace.