Protests erupted in Syria after a Christmas tree was burned in Suqaylabiyah, a Christian-majority town. The incident sparked calls for the new Islamist authorities, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), to protect minorities. HTS detained foreign fighters allegedly involved and promised to safeguard religious freedoms. Demonstrations spread to Damascus, with protesters opposing foreign fighters and expressing solidarity with Christians. Syria’s diverse population includes Kurds, Armenians, Assyrians, Christians, Druze, Alawite Shia, and Arab Sunnis. The protests follow the recent fall of Bashar al-Assad’s presidency.

Ava Sinclair 25/12/2024 2:00 pm

A passenger plane from Baku to Russia crashed near Aqtau, Kazakhstan, with 67 on board. Dozens died, but over 30 survived, including 27 hospitalized, 11 in serious condition. Families awaited news at Baku airport, with heavy police presence. Azerbaijan’s Prosecutor General confirmed 32 survivors. Kazakhstan’s Emergencies Ministry reported rescue efforts and a fire extinguished at the crash site.

Penelope Kingsley 25/12/2024 2:00 pm

Ukrainians endured Russian drone and missile strikes targeting energy infrastructure from Tuesday night into Christmas Day, prompting immediate power cuts. President Zelenskyy accused Russia of deliberately choosing Christmas for the attack, involving over 70 missiles and 100 drones. Ukrainian defenses intercepted over 50 missiles, but some hits caused outages. Energy Minister Galushchenko announced consumption restrictions to mitigate impacts, while efforts to restore power continue.

Noah Prescott 25/12/2024 10:30 am

Bethlehem, typically vibrant during Christmas, is subdued due to the ongoing war in Gaza. Public celebrations are canceled, with only religious ceremonies and family gatherings taking place. Reverend Dr. Munther Isaac highlights the town’s solidarity with Gaza, expressing frustration over the global inaction. The Nativity scene at his church reflects the devastation, depicting baby Jesus in rubble. Many local Christians feel despair and question the global Christian community’s silence. Israel denies genocide accusations, with a UN court case pending.

Noah Prescott 25/12/2024 10:30 am

At least three people, including two journalists and a police officer, were killed when armed men attacked reporters at Haiti’s largest public hospital reopening in Port-au-Prince. A local gang leader, Johnson (Izo) André, claimed responsibility. Seven others were wounded. The prime minister condemned the attack as an assault on societal foundations. Gunfire continued as the injured were treated nearby.

Ava Sinclair 25/12/2024 10:30 am

Pope Francis is celebrating Christmas Eve Mass in a newly restored St. Peter’s Basilica, ahead of the 2025 Jubilee Year. Significant restorations include Bernini’s Baldachin and the Chair of St. Peter, symbolizing Papal authority. The Vatican has also created a digital replica of the basilica for virtual exploration.

Noah Prescott 25/12/2024 7:00 am

Mozambique’s opposition leader, Venâncio Mondlane, plans to declare himself president on January 15, rejecting his election defeat. His supporters have staged violent protests against the ruling Frelimo party, leading to unrest and at least 21 deaths. The unrest followed the court’s upholding of Frelimo candidate Daniel Chapo’s victory. Mondlane, in self-imposed exile, claims the election was rigged and urges peaceful protests. Despite his declaration, it’s unclear how he intends to assume office. Chapo, who won 71% of the vote, has not commented.

Ava Sinclair 25/12/2024 3:30 am

At least three people, including two journalists and a police officer, were killed when armed men opened fire during a briefing at Haiti’s General Hospital in Port-au-Prince. The attack, reportedly by the Viv Ansanm gang, injured many others. The hospital had been reclaimed from gangs in July. Despite a new transitional government and international intervention, gang violence remains rampant, with 85% of the capital under gang control. The UN reports 5,000 deaths in Haiti this year, highlighting the country’s dire situation.

Penelope Kingsley 25/12/2024 3:30 am

The 13,000-ton M/V Ursa Major, a crucial sealift ship for Russia’s Oboronlogistika, sank in the Mediterranean near Spain on Christmas Eve after an engine room “blast.” The loss is significant for Russia’s shipbuilding industry. The 15-year-old vessel, equipped with roll-on/roll-off ramps and cranes, was vital for military logistics. All but two of the 16 crew were rescued. Ursa Major, previously supporting Russia’s Syria garrison, was en route from Saint Petersburg to Vladivostok. The ship was shadowed by a Royal Navy frigate and monitored by a Portuguese patrol plane.

Noah Prescott 25/12/2024 3:30 am

An Amsterdam court sentenced five men to up to six months in prison for violence during a UEFA Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv. The riots, involving pro-Palestinian demonstrators and Israeli fans, led to accusations of antisemitic attacks, injuring 25 people. The violence damaged Amsterdam’s reputation for tolerance. The defendants, aged 19-32, faced charges of public violence, theft, and assault. Six more suspects, including minors, await trial. Despite no “concrete threat,” authorities banned a pro-Palestinian protest outside the stadium.

Penelope Kingsley 25/12/2024 3:30 am