News
US Embassy Urges Citizens to Depart Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions
The United States Embassy in Beirut has issued an urgent advisory, recommending that American citizens leave Lebanon on “any ticket available” due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. This advisory echoes a similar warning from UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who cautioned that the situation “could deteriorate rapidly.”
Tensions have heightened following Iran’s vow of “severe” retaliation against Israel, which Iran accuses of assassinating Hamas leader Ismael Haniyeh in Tehran on Wednesday. This incident occurred shortly after Israel killed Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. There is growing concern that Lebanon-based Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group, could significantly participate in any retaliation, potentially triggering a severe Israeli response.
The US Embassy’s statement on Saturday advised those choosing to remain in Lebanon to “prepare contingency plans” and be ready to “shelter in place for an extended period of time.” Despite several airlines suspending and canceling flights, the embassy noted that “commercial transportation options to leave Lebanon remain available.”
In response to the situation, the Pentagon has announced the deployment of additional warships and fighter jets to the region to bolster Israel’s defenses against potential attacks by Iran and its proxies.
The UK has also increased its readiness by sending extra military personnel, consular staff, and border force officials to assist with possible evacuations, urging its citizens to leave the country “while commercial flights are running.” Two British military ships are already stationed in the region, and the Royal Air Force has transport helicopters on standby.
David Lammy emphasized that it is “in no one’s interest for this conflict to spread across the region.” In a conversation with EU Foreign Policy Chief Joseph Borrell on Friday, Iran’s Acting Foreign Minister Ali Baqeri Kani stated that Iran would “undoubtedly use its inherent and legitimate right” to “punish” Israel.
On Friday, Iranian state TV issued a warning that “the world would witness extraordinary scenes.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has alerted Israelis to “challenging days” ahead, noting threats from multiple directions and affirming that Israel is “prepared for any scenario.” In preparation for potential communication disruptions, Israeli ministers were equipped with satellite phones over the weekend.
During a funeral ceremony for Haniyeh in Tehran on Thursday, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, led prayers and vowed that Israel would face “harsh punishment” for the killing.
News
Archbishop of Canterbury Resigns Amid Church Abuse Report
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has announced his resignation in the wake of a report revealing failures to address abuse linked to the Church of England. The investigation concluded that Welby, 68, “could and should” have reported allegations against John Smyth, a prolific child abuser, to the police when he first became aware of them in 2013.
In his resignation statement, Welby acknowledged, “it is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for my response.” He emphasized that stepping down was in the Church’s best interests and underscored the need for change and safety within its ranks. “I hope this decision makes clear how seriously the Church of England understands the need for change and our profound commitment to creating a safer church,” he said. Welby expressed deep sorrow for the victims and survivors of abuse.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s spokesperson expressed respect for Welby’s decision and affirmed that his thoughts were with the victims.
News
Dozens Killed in Tragic Car Rampage at Chinese Stadium
A devastating car attack in Zhuhai, southern China, has claimed at least 35 lives and left 45 injured, in what is believed to be the deadliest public violence in the country in decades. Authorities reported that on Monday, a 62-year-old man, identified as Mr. Fan, drove his car into a stadium and struck groups of people exercising on the track.
Local reports indicate that the victims included elderly individuals and children. The driver is believed to have carried out the “serious and vicious attack” due to discontent over a divorce settlement. He was apprehended while attempting to escape from the Zhuhai Sports Center and is currently in a coma due to self-inflicted injuries, according to a police statement.
The incident has shocked the nation and prompted an outcry for justice. President Xi Jinping has vowed “severe punishment” for the assailant and directed “all-out efforts” to provide medical treatment to the injured.
News
Trump Announces Key Appointments: Elise Stefanik as UN Ambassador, Tom Homan as Border Tsar
President-elect Donald Trump has unveiled two significant appointments as he prepares for his return to the White House in January. Elise Stefanik, a 40-year-old New York Congresswoman, has been confirmed as Trump’s choice for the role of U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Additionally, Trump has appointed Tom Homan, 62, to be his “border tsar.” Homan previously served as acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during Trump’s first term.
This move comes as the Republican Party inches closer to securing full control of Congress. The GOP has already captured a majority in the Senate and is three seats away from winning the House of Representatives. The Republicans currently hold 215 seats, while Democrats have 210. Control of the 218-seat majority in the House would grant Republicans significant legislative power, including initiating spending bills and launching impeachment proceedings.
Trump took to his Truth Social platform to announce Homan’s appointment, saying, “Tom Homan will be in charge of our Nation’s Borders (‘The Border Czar’), including… the Southern Border, the Northern Border, all Maritime, and Aviation Security.” Trump emphasized Homan’s role in deportation efforts, adding, “Congratulations to Tom. I have no doubt he will do a fantastic, and long awaited for, job.”
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