News Archives - Page 8 of 896

Trump and Netanyahu are to meet in Florida at a crucial moment for the US-backed Gaza ceasefire

December 28, 2025

By WILL WEISSERT, SAM MEDNICK and SAMY MAGDY - Associated Press

President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. They aim to boost a U.S.-brokered ceasefire in Gaza, which faces challenges as it looks to move into a more complicated second phase. Trump hopes to leverage his relationship with Netanyahu to speed up the peace process. The ceasefire began in October and has mostly held, but progress has slowed lately. The second phase involves rebuilding Gaza under international supervision, creating an international security force and normalizing relations between Israel and the Arab world.

Zohran Mamdani has bold promises. Can he make them come true as New York City mayor?

December 28, 2025

By ANTHONY IZAGUIRRE - Associated Press

Zohran Mamdani has promised to transform New York City government when he becomes mayor. Can he do it? Mamdani, a 34-year-old democratic socialist, already faces intense scrutiny, even before taking office in one of the country’s most scrutinized political jobs. Republicans have cast him as a liberal boogeyman. Some of his fellow Democrats have deemed him too far left. Progressives are closely watching for any signs of him shifting toward the center. On Jan. 1, he will assume control of America’s biggest city under that harsh spotlight, with the country watching to see if he can pull off the big promises that vaulted him to office and handle the everyday duties of the job.

Leonard scores a career-best 55 points to lead the Clippers past the East-leading Pistons 112-99

December 28, 2025

By DOUG PADILLA - Associated Press

Kawhi Leonard scored a career-high 55 points, James Harden added 28 and the Los Angeles Clippers extended their winning streak to a season-high four games with a 112-99 victory over the Detroit Pistons. Leonard went 17 of 26 from the floor, including 5 for 10 from 3-point range, and made 16 of 17 free throws. Nicolas Batum scored 12 points, while Leonard added 11 rebounds and five steals for Los Angeles, which lost 10 of 11 games before its four-game run. Cade Cunningham finished with 27 points for the Pistons after being held scoreless in the first half while in foul trouble. Jalen Duren had 18 points and 14 rebounds, and Jaden Ivey added 11 points for Detroit, which lost back-to-back games for just the second time.

Mesabi Humane Society to stop accepting animals from the City of Virginia

December 28, 2025

Emmaleah Allen,

VIRGINIA, Minn. — The Mesabi Humane Society says it is no longer accepting animals from the City of Virginia. MHS recently put out a statement on their Facebook page saying, “The Mesabi Humane Society values its long-standing partnership with the City of Virginia. However, effective immediately, MHS will no longer be accepting animals from the City of Virginia. This decision…

Bentleyville wraps up the holiday season

December 28, 2025

Lauren Martinson,

DULUTH, Minn. — Across the Twin Ports, people spent the past few days taking in the holiday lights, leading to Bentleyville wrapping up with volunteers helping to take down all the lights. Yesterday was the final night of the famous light show. It was accompanied by fireworks while onlookers said ‘goodbye’ to this year’s Christmas season. Today, “teardown” began and…

West Duluth Little League devastated by second fire of 2025

December 28, 2025

Emmaleah Allen, Lauren Martinson,

DULUTH, Minn. — On Christmas evening, the Western Duluth Little League suffered a structure fire that destroyed both the equipment shed and concession stand. This is the second time this year that a fire has affected the same structures. The league has released a statement on their Facebook stating, “We are devastated at this news, and moving forward will need…

4 dead, dozens injured in Syria during clashes between Alawites and counterdemonstrators

December 28, 2025

By OMAR ALBAM - Associated Press

At least four people have been killed and dozens wounded in clashes on Syria’s coast. Health officials said that the violence erupted Sunday between Alawite protesters and counterdemonstrators. This follows a bombing at an Alawite mosque in Homs on Friday that killed eight and wounded 18. Thousands protested in Latakia and Tartous. A group called Saraya Ansar al-Sunna claimed responsibility for the mosque attack. Security forces tried to break up the clashes by firing into the air. Syria’s state-run television reported injuries to security forces and damage to property. The country has faced sectarian clashes since the fall of former President Bashar Assad.

The moon and sun figure big in the new year’s lineup of cosmic wonders

December 28, 2025

By MARCIA DUNN - AP Aerospace Writer

The moon and sun share top billing in 2026. Kicking off the year’s cosmic wonders is the moon, drawing the first astronauts to visit in more than 50 years. A caravan of robotic lunar landers also will be launched, including Jeff Bezos’ new supersized Blue Moon. The sun will generate buzz, too, with a ring-of-fire eclipse at the bottom of the world in February and a total solar eclipse at the top of the world in August. Each of those will be followed closely by lunar eclipses. The stargazing fun begins with a supermoon on Jan. 3.

Pipe bomb suspect told FBI he targeted US political parties because they were ‘in charge,’ memo says

December 28, 2025

By ERIC TUCKER - Associated Press

The man accused of placing two pipe bombs in Washington on the eve of the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol told investigators after his arrest that he believed someone needed to “speak up” for people who believed the 2020 election was stolen. He also said he wanted to target the country’s political parties because they were “in charge.” That’s according to a memo filed by the Justice Department on Sunday that argues that Brian J. Cole Jr. should remain jailed as the case moves forward. Cole was arrested earlier this month on charges of placing pipe bombs outside the headquarters of the Democratic and Republican national committees.

Kyle Whittingham confident his style will be a familiar fit as Michigan’s football coach

December 28, 2025

By DOUG FERGUSON - AP Sports Writer

Kyle Whittingham was barely two weeks into retirement after 21 years at Utah when he found an offer he couldn’t turn down. Whittingham is the new head coach at Michigan. It’s a proud program in disarray after the firing of Sherrone Moore for an extramarital relationship with a staffer. Michigan also was punished for a sign-stealing scandal. Whittingham says that didn’t deter him from what he calls one of the best jobs in the country. He says the players are solid and the issues will work themselves out. Whittingham says he brings a style of play familiar to Michigan.

Grand Marais stabbing incident under investigation

December 28, 2025

Emmaleah Allen,

GRAND MARAIS, Minn. — The Cook County Dispatch received a call regarding a stabbing inside the local Co-Op around 3:45 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 27. Upon arriving on scene, first responders performed emergency care, and the victim was transported by ambulance to North Shore Health for further care. The suspect fled the scene; however, deputies were able to apprehend the…

Photos show Venezuelans celebrating Holy Innocents’ Day

December 28, 2025

By MATIAS DELACROIX - Associated Press

CAUCAGUA, Venezuela (AP) — Hundreds of people in northern Venezuela took to the streets for the annual Bandos and Parrandas of the Holy Innocents of Caucagua, a celebration rooted in Afro-descendant cacao-growing communities. Marked on Dec. 28 alongside the Catholic Feast of the Holy Innocents, the festivity dates back more than 200 years, when enslaved people were given the day…

One person is dead and another is injured in midair helicopter crash in New Jersey, officials say

December 28, 2025

AP

One person was killed and another was left critically injured after two helicopters crashed in southern New Jersey on Sunday, officials said. The Federal Aviation Administration described the crash as a midair collision. Hammonton Police Chief Kevin Friel said rescuers responded to a report of an aviation crash at about 11:25 a.m. on Sunday, and police and fire crews subsequently extinguished flames that engulfed one of the helicopters. One person was killed and another was transported to a nearby hospital with life-threatening injuries. Video from the scene showed a helicopter spinning rapidly to the ground. Friel said the FAA and National Transportation Safety Board have been notified and will be investigating the crash.

New York subway ends its MetroCard era and switches fully to tap-and-go fares

December 28, 2025

By PHILIP MARCELO - Associated Press

The New York City transit system is retiring the MetroCard after more than 30 years. The gold-and-blue swipeable card was introduced in 1994 to replace the subway token, which had been used for half a century. The last sales and refills on MetroCards will be Dec. 31, though existing cards will still work for some time into 2026. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is fully transitioning to OMNY, a contactless payment system rolled out in 2019. The system allows riders to tap their credit card, phone or other smart device to pay their fare, much in the same way they do for other purchases.

Photos show flour, eggs and firecrackers flying at Spain’s Els Enfarinats festival

December 28, 2025

By ALBERTO SAIZ - Associated Press

IBI, Spain (AP) — Revelers take part in the Els Enfarinats festival, a battle using flour, eggs and firecrackers in the Spanish town of Ibi. This is a photo gallery curated by Associated Press photo editors. Categories: US & World News

Derrick Henry’s virtuoso performance helps Ravens stay alive with 41-24 win over Packers

December 28, 2025

By STEVE MEGARGEE - AP Sports Writer

Derrick Henry rushed for a season-high 216 yards and matched a career high with four touchdown runs as the Baltimore Ravens kept their playoff hopes alive by defeating the Green Bay Packers 41-24 on Saturday night. Henry had three touchdown runs in the first half and then scored again on a 25-yard run with 1:56 left in the game. His seventh career 200-yard rushing performance moved him ahead of Adrian Peterson and O.J. Simpson for the most in NFL history. His 36 carries represented a career high.

Photos remembering Brigitte Bardot, iconic French actor and activist

December 28, 2025

By The Associated Press

Brigitte Bardot, the French 1960s sex symbol who became one of the greatest screen sirens of the 20th century and later a militant animal rights activist, has died. She was 91. This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors. Categories: US & World News

Winter rain floods Gaza camps as Netanyahu heads for US meeting

December 28, 2025

By WAFAA SHURAFA and SALLY ABOU ALJOUD - Associated Press

Winter rain has lashed the Gaza Strip, flooding camps with ankle-deep puddles as Palestinians displaced by war try to stay dry in fraying tents. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is traveling for an expected meeting on Monday with U.S. President Donald Trump about the second phase of the ceasefire. The first phase that took effect on Oct. 10 was meant to bring a surge in humanitarian aid for Gaza, including shelter. Though the ceasefire agreement has mostly held, its progress has slowed. Its second phase is expected to be even more challenging, with issues including Gaza’s security and governance.

A winter storm threatens to bring blizzards and ice to parts of the U.S., hampering holiday travel

December 28, 2025

By LEAH WILLINGHAM - Associated Press

A powerful winter storm driven by a rapidly intensifying cyclone was sweeping east from the Plains on Sunday, bringing heavy snow, ice, rain and severe weather expected to affect much of the country. Forecasters warned of possible blizzard conditions and whiteouts in parts of the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes, where snowfall could exceed a foot and reach 2 feet near Lake Superior. The system is expected to deliver freezing rain in New England, thunderstorms across the South and East, and widespread strong winds. The storm follows some flight disruptions during the busy holiday travel period.

Guinea votes in first election since 2021 coup with junta leader expected to win

December 28, 2025

AP

Guineans are voting to elect a new president in the country’s first election since a 2021 coup. The election on Sunday features a weakened opposition with a total of nine candidates. Analysts have predicted a likely win for junta leader Gen. Mamadi Doumbouya. The election in Guinea is the latest such vote among African countries that have seen a surge in coups in recent years. Doumbouya’s closest challenger is the little-known Yero Baldé of the Democratic Front of Guinea party, who was education minister under ousted President Alpha Condé. More than half of Guinea’s 15 million people are experiencing record levels of poverty and food insecurity despite its rich mineral resources — including as the world’s biggest exporter of bauxite, used to make aluminum.

Hounded by photographers for years, Bardot identified with the animals she later set out to save

December 28, 2025

By ANGELA CHARLTON and ELAINE GANLEY. - Associated Press

Brigitte Bardot, who has died at 91, often said that the hounding she received from the world’s press in her years as a sex symbol of the 1960s made her identify with hunted and abused animals. So it was that the sultry star of “And God Created Woman” and many other films reinvented herself as a militant animal rights activist, devoting herself to protecting animals across the globe. But while she was initially lauded and honored for her work, she was later repeatedly convicted of inciting racial hatred and several towns removed statues of Marianne — the bare-breasted symbol of the French republic — that were modeled on Bardot.

Brigitte Bardot, 1960s sultry sex symbol turned militant animal rights activist dies at 91

December 28, 2025

By THOMAS ADAMSON and ELAINE GANLEY - Associated Press

Brigitte Bardot, the French 1960s sex symbol who became one of the greatest screen sirens of the 20th century and later a militant animal rights activist, has died. She was 91. Bardot rocketed to international stardom in the 1956 movie “And God Created Woman.” Directed by her then-husband, Roger Vadim, it triggered a scandal with scenes of the long-legged beauty dancing on tables naked. As an animal rights activist, she earned her compatriots’ respect and was awarded the nation’s highest honor. Later, however, she fell from public grace as her animal protection diatribes took on a decidedly extremist tone and her far-right political views sounded racist.

Polls open for Myanmar’s first election since military seized power

December 27, 2025

By TIAN MACLEOD JI and GRANT PECK - Associated Press

Voters in Myanmar are participating in the first phase of the country’s general election, held under military rule amid a civil war. Final results will not be known until after two more rounds of voting are completed in January. It is widely expected that Min Aung Hlaing, the general who led the ouster of the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021, will then assume the presidency. Critics argue the election is a facade to legitimize military control under the pretense of civilian rule. Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy party was dissolved after refusing to register under new military rules. Other major parties are also not contesting the polls, making the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party the heavy favorite to take power.

Foods with healthy-sounding buzzwords could be hiding added sugar in plain sight

December 27, 2025

By ALBERT STUMM - Associated Press

People probably don’t know how much sugar they’re eating. Up to 57 pounds per year, according to the American Heart Association. And the culprit isn’t just glazed pastries and soda. Many products marketed as healthy can have a tablespoon of added sugars per serving. Nicole Avena, a neuroscience and psychiatry professor at Mount Sinai Medical School, says to be wary of marketing terms that aren’t regulated, like “organic,” “made with real fruit,” “all natural” and “superfood.” Healthy grocery buzzwords like those often cover up an unhealthy amount of sugar. Along with saturated fat and salt, eating excess sugar is linked to heart disease, obesity, diabetes and other health risks.

Zelenskyy to meet with Trump as efforts to end Russia-Ukraine war remain elusive

December 27, 2025

By WILL WEISSERT, SEUNG MIN KIM and ELISE MORTON - Associated press

President Donald Trump will host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to try to close out a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia that would end nearly four years of war. The two men will meet Sunday in Florida, where the U.S. president is spending the holidays. In announcing the meeting, Zelenskyy said he will raise “territorial issues” as Moscow and Kyiv remain fiercely at odds over the fate of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine. Trump has been working to end the war for much of his first year back in office, showing irritation with both Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Antetokounmpo scores 29 for Bucks against Bulls after missing 8 games with calf strain

December 27, 2025

AP

Giannis Antetokounmpo returned Saturday night from the right calf strain that has kept the two-time MVP from playing in the Milwaukee Bucks’ previous eight games. Antetokounmpo was in the starting lineup for the Bucks’ game against the Chicago Bulls, after the team originally listing him as questionable on the injury report. The two-time MVP scored a game-high 29 points and grabbed eight rebounds to lead the Milwaukee Bucks to a 112-103 victory over Chicago. Antetokounmpo hasn’t played since injuring his calf on Dec. 3.

Antetokounmpo scores 29 points in his return as Bucks snap Bulls’ 5-game winning streak

December 27, 2025

AP

Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 29 points in his return from an eight-game absence, and the Milwaukee Bucks snapped the Chicago Bulls’ five-game winning streak with a 112-103 victory on Saturday night. The two-time MVP, who had been sidelined by a right calf strain, added eight rebounds in his first game since Dec. 3. He played 25 minutes, which coach Doc Rivers saying before the game that the forward would have his minutes restricted. Ryan Rollins scored 20 points and Bobby Portis added 17 points and 10 rebounds for Milwaukee, which had dropped six of eight.

Thailand and Cambodia sign a new ceasefire agreement to end border fighting

December 27, 2025

By WASAMON AUDJARINT and SOPHENG CHEANG - Associated Press

Thailand and Cambodia have signed a ceasefire agreement to end weeks of fighting over border disputes. The agreement, effective Saturday at noon, halts military movements and airspace violations. Thailand had conducted airstrikes in Cambodia as recently as Saturday morning. The deal includes the repatriation of 18 Cambodian soldiers held by Thailand after 72 hours of ceasefire. Both countries have suffered civilian and military casualties. The ceasefire aims to allow displaced civilians to return home. The agreement also addresses land mine concerns and calls for joint demining operations. Malaysia’s Prime Minister praised the agreement, emphasizing restraint for civilian safety.

Gostisbehere, Svechnikov post 3-point games as Hurricanes beat Red Wings 5-2, end 3-game skid

December 27, 2025

By BOB SUTTON - Associated Press

Shayne Gostisbehere and Andrei Svechnikov each had a goal and two assists and the Carolina Hurricanes snapped a season-worst three-game skid with a 5-2 win over the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday night in a matchup of divisional leaders. Jackson Blake and Eric Robinson scored during the Hurricanes’ three-goal second period. Jordan Martinook, who missed the three previous games with an injury, scored his 100th career goal with an empty-netter with 1:21 to play. Brandon Bussi made 18 saves and boosted his record to 12-1-1. Michael Rasmussen and Andrew Copp scored for the Atlantic Division-leading Red Wings. John Gibson stopped 33 shots and lost for the first time in nine December outings.

Texans clinch third consecutive playoff berth with 20-16 win over Chargers

December 27, 2025

By BETH HARRIS - AP Sports Writer

C.J. Stroud threw two long touchdowns on Houston’s first two drives, leading the Texans to a 20-16 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. This win clinched a third consecutive playoff berth for the Texans for the first time in franchise history. The Texans improved to 11-5 and have won eight in a row. It’s their longest winning streak since 2018. The Chargers fell to 11-5 and had their four-game winning streak snapped. The loss handed the AFC West title to first-place Denver. The Chargers have the best kicker in the NFL, but Cameron Dicker missed a 32-yard field goal and a point after attempt.

Jeffrey R. Holland, next in line to lead Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, dies at 85

December 27, 2025

By HANNAH SCHOENBAUM - Associated Press

Jeffrey R. Holland, a senior official in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has died at 85. The church announced his death on Saturday from complications from kidney disease. Holland led the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, a key governing body. He was next in line to become the church’s president. Henry B. Eyring is now next in line. Holland had been dealing with health issues and was hospitalized during the Christmas holiday. He previously served as president of Brigham Young University and was known for his work in education and interfaith relations.

Winter storm snarls holiday travel across US Northeast, Great Lakes

December 27, 2025

By LEAH WILLINGHAM and JULIE WALKER - Associated Press

More than a thousand flights have been canceled or delayed across the Northeast and Great Lakes as a winter storm disrupted one of the busiest travel weekends of the year between Christmas and New Year’s. As of Saturday morning, New York City had received around 4 inches of snow. That was less than what some forecasts predicted. But at least 1,500 flights were canceled from according to flight-tracking service FlightAware. Major New York-area airports warned of disruptions. And the National Weather Service cautioned about hazardous travel conditions, possible power outages and tree damage. States of emergency were declared for New Jersey and parts of New York.

Ravens rule Lamar Jackson out for Saturday night’s must-win game at Green Bay

December 27, 2025

By STEVE MEGARGEE - AP Sports Writer

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson won’t play Saturday night against the Green Bay Packers due to the back injury that knocked him out of a loss to the New England Patriots last weekend. The Ravens listed Jackson among their inactive players for Saturday’s must-win game. The two-time MVP hadn’t practiced all week and was listed as doubtful on the Ravens’ Thursday injury report. This means neither team will have its starting quarterback available. The Packers announced Friday that Jordan Love wouldn’t be available. Love has been in concussion protocol since absorbing a helmet-to-helmet hit in a loss at Chicago last weekend

Russia strikes Ukraine’s capital and kills at least 1 person a day before Zelenskyy-Trump meeting

December 27, 2025

By SAMYA KULLAB and VASILISA STEPANENKO - Associated Press

Russia struck Ukraine’s capital with missiles and drones in an attack that killed at least one person. The barrage came a day before the leaders of Ukraine and the United States meet. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the attack “really shows that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin doesn’t want peace.” Authorities said that Saturday’s assault hit residential buildings and energy infrastructure in Kyiv. Moscow said the strike was in response to Ukraine’s attacks on “civilian objects” in Russia. Poland scrambled fighter jets and closed airports in Lublin and Rzeszow near the border with Ukraine for several hours during the Russian attacks but there was no violation of Polish airspace.

Taylor Heise’s OT goal lifts Frost past Goldeneyes 2-1 in Takeover Tour stop in Edmonton

December 27, 2025

AP

Taylor Heise scored her first goal of the season 2:57 into overtime Saturday to give the Minnesota Frost a 2-1 victory over the Vancouver Goldeneyes as the Professional Women’s Hockey League Takeover Tour hit Edmonton’s Rogers Place. Heise worked her way into the left faceoff circle before rifling a shot just under the crossbar to give the Frost the win and keep Vancouver winless on the road. Abby Hustler also scored for Minnesota, with Maddie Rooney making 27 saves. Izzy Daniel had Vancouver’s lone goal, and Emerance Maschmeyer stopped 33 shots.

New to The Street Show #710 Airs Tonight at 6:30 PM EST on Bloomberg Television

December 27, 2025

ACCESS Newswire

Sponsored programming featuring commercials from Synergy CHC (NASDAQ:SNYR), HelloAxel.com (private), The Sustainable Green Team (OTC:SGTM – Waterless Garden), DataVault AI (NASDAQ:DVLT), and PetVivo (OTCQX:PETV).NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK / ACCESS Newswire / December 27, 2025 / New to The Street, the long-running global business and financial television platform known for spotlighting category-defining innovators across Web3, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and real-world…

Chilly Gaza braces for more winter rain and word of any progress in ceasefire talks

December 27, 2025

By WAFAA SHURAFA - Associated Press

Barefoot children played on chilly sand as Gaza’s thousands of displaced people prepared threadbare tents for another round of winter rain. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to visit Washington in the coming days as negotiators and others discuss the second stage of the ceasefire that took effect on Oct. 10. Though the agreement has mostly held, its progress has slowed. Meanwhile, Israel’s defense minister on Saturday said a military operation continued in a town in the Israeli-occupied West Bank a day after police said a Palestinian killed two people in northern Israel.

Brazilian judge puts coup plot convicts under house arrest after former police commander flees

December 27, 2025

By GABRIELA SÁ PESSOA and MANUEL RUEDA - Associated Press

A Brazilian judge has issued house arrest orders for 10 people involved in a plot to keep former President Jair Bolsonaro in power after his 2022 election loss. The decision on Saturday came after Paraguay arrested and extradited a former police commander linked to the plot. The individuals under house arrest had previously faced measures like ankle monitors. Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years in prison in September for attempting a coup. The trials have been closely watched in Brazil. The U.S. initially criticized the proceedings. But Washington has since softened its stance by lifting sanctions and lowering tariffs on Brazilian exports.

Photos show the destruction after Russia’s latest attacks on Kyiv

December 27, 2025

BY EVGENIY MALOLETKA and EFREM LUKATSKY - Associated Press

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russia has attacked Ukraine’s capital with missiles and drones, killing one person and wounding dozens of others. Explosions rocked Kyiv for hours, affecting seven locations. This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors. Categories: US & World News

Hundreds mourn in Syria’s Homs after deadly mosque bombing

December 27, 2025

By OMAR SANADIKI - Associated Press

Hundreds of mourners have gathered outside a mosque in Homs, Syria, after a bombing killed eight people and wounded 18. The crowd assembled next to the Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib Mosque in the Wadi al-Dhahab neighborhood, predominantly Alawite, before driving in convoys to bury the victims. Officials say preliminary investigations indicate explosive devices were planted inside the mosque. A group called Saraya Ansar al-Sunna claimed responsibility, targeting the Alawite sect. The same group previously claimed a suicide attack in June at a Greek Orthodox church near Damascus. Mourners prayed outside the mosque, which remains cordoned off.

A$AP Rocky Partners with Bilt to Drop Exclusive Member Vinyl and Launch “Rent Free” Campaign Celebrating Highly Anticipated Album DON’T BE DUMB

December 27, 2025

Business Wire

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Dec 27, 2025–Bilt, the rewards program that connects where you live with the places you love, today announced an exclusive collaboration with multi-hyphenated artist, entrepreneur, actor and fashion icon A$AP Rocky to celebrate the release of his long-awaited fourth studio album DON’T BE DUMB arriving January 16. The partnership features a Bilt-exclusive limited edition vinyl designed by Rocky…

Photos show California homes buried in mud and debris during Christmas storms

December 27, 2025

By WILLIAM LIANG, WALLY SKALIJ and NOAH BERGER - Associated Press

WRIGHTWOOD, California (AP) — Towns across California have been affected by storms during Christmas week, filling homes halfway with mud, cracking highways and burying cars. The National Weather Service warned of heavy rain throughout the week due to a series of atmospheric rivers. This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors. Categories: US & World News

How TV shows like ‘Mo’ and ‘Muslim Matchmaker’ allow Arab and Muslim Americans to tell their stories

December 27, 2025

By PATRICK AFTOORA-ORSAGOS - Associated Press

Comedian Mo Amer is gaining attention for his show “Mo,” which explores the journey of a Palestinian refugee family seeking asylum in the U.S. The series is part of a wave of TV shows by Arab or Muslim American creators that aim to tell authentic stories without relying on stereotypes. The second season of “Mo” begins with the main character running a falafel taco stand in Mexico. Other shows like “Muslim Matchmaker” and “#1 Happy Family USA” are also challenging traditional portrayals. Experts say positive representation can influence public opinion and policy, highlighting the importance of diverse storytelling.

The top photos of the week by AP’s photojournalists

December 27, 2025

By The Associated Press

Dec. 19 – 25, 2025 This photo gallery, curated by photo editor Leslie Mazoch, highlights some of the most compelling images worldwide published by The Associated Press in the past week. See last week’s top photos of the week Follow AP visual journalism: AP photography: https://apnews.com/photography Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apnews Categories: US & World News

Nigerian villagers are rattled by US airstrikes that made their homes shake and the sky glow red

December 27, 2025

By OPE ADETAYO and TUNDE OMOLEHIN - Associated Press

A U.S. airstrike that targeted an alleged camp of the Islamic State group in Nigeria has caused panic in the village of Jabo, close to where the strike hit. The residents witnessed the sky glowing red from the attack late on Thursday night. U.S. President Donald Trump announced the strike. The Nigerian government has since confirmed that it cooperated with the U.S government in its strike but didn’t disclose details about the militants targeted. Jabo’s residents say the village had never been attacked by armed gangs as part of the violence the U.S. says is widespread, though such attacks regularly occur in neighboring villages. Locals remain anxious, fearing further attacks and uncertainty.

George scores 31 and hits game winner as Jazz edge Pistons 131-129

December 26, 2025

By MATTHEW COLES - Associated Press

Keyonte George scored 31 points and hit a floater in the lane with 2.1 seconds remaining as the Utah Jazz snapped a four-game losing streak with a 131-129 win over the Detroit Pistons. Cade Cunningham, who had 29 points and 17 assists, missed a contested shot at the buzzer. Lauri Markkanen scored 30 points and Brice Sensabaugh equaled his season high of 20 points filling in for Ace Bailey, who missed the second half with a hip injury. Tobias Harris had 16 points for the Pistons, who lost for just the second time in their last nine games.

Cambodia reports Thai air strikes as the 2 nations hold peace talks

December 26, 2025

By WASAMON AUDJARINT - Associated Press

Cambodia says that Thailand hit a site in the country’s northwest with an airstrike on Saturday even as the two sides pursue talks to end clashes. Cambodia’s Defense Ministry said that Thailand deployed fighter jets to bomb targets in its Banteay Meanchey province on Friday and Saturday. Thailand confirmed the Friday attack and cited defense needs. Each country blames the other for breaching a ceasefire that ended a previous round of fighting in July. The two sides are holding talks this week that defense ministers were expected to join on Saturday to possibly formalize an end to the fighting. The combat has caused numerous casualties and mass displacements.

Zayne Parekh scores twice and Canada tops Czechia this time around at World Juniors

December 26, 2025

AP

Zayne Parekh scored twice, Canada had four goals in the third period and the Canadians defeated Czechia 7-5 at the World Junior Championships. Canada, the 20-time champion, is looking to return to the podium after being eliminated by Czechia in the quarterfinals in each of the past two tournaments. Czechia took the bronze both times. There were three goals in the first 6 1/2 minutes of an explosive third period capped by Tij Iginla’s goal that gave Canada a 5-4 lead. Ethan MacKenzie’s goal a few minutes later made it 6-4 for the Canadians. Tomas Galvas scored for Czechia with 4 1/2 minutes left in the game and Porter Martone found the empty net for Canada to wrap up the scoring.

Animal Allies shares successful adoption tips

December 26, 2025

Lauren Martinson,

DULUTH, Minn. — As the holidays come to a close, some people may realize that a well-intended gift came with more responsibility than expected. Those irresistible puppies and kittens can lead to impulsive decisions, especially during the holidays. Animal Allies in Duluth works year-round to promote successful pet adoptions and shared tips on surrender prevention. “So we, yeah, really discourage…

Kyle Whittingham hired as Michigan football coach, replacing the fired and disgraced Sherrone Moore

December 26, 2025

By LARRY LAGE - AP Sports Writer

Michigan has hired Kyle Whittingham as its football coach, giving the former Utah coach a five-year contract to replace the fired and disgraced Sherrone Moore. The 66-year-old Whittingham announced two weeks ago that he would step down after 21 seasons as Utah’s coach. Morgan Scalley was promoted from defensive coordinator to replace Whittingham, who has won a school-record 177 games. Scalley will now take over the Utes immediately and coach them in the Las Vegas Bowl on Dec. 31. Michigan fired Moore after the school said it discovered his inappropriate relationship with a staffer. Moore was subsequently charged with three crimes for confronting a woman he’d been having an affair with.