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Ruling on Monday after an emergency hearing at Belfast High Court, judge Mr Justice McAlinden rejected loyalist activist Jamie Bryson’s application for leave for a full judicial review hearing against Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn. The judge said Mr Bryson, who represented himself as a personal litigant, had “very ably argued” his case with “perseverance and cogency”, and had raised some issues of law that caused him “some concern”. However, he found against him on the three grounds of challenge against Mr Benn. Mr Bryson had initially asked the court to grant interim relief in his challenge to prevent Tuesday’s democratic consent motion being heard in the Assembly, pending the hearing of a full judicial review. However, he abandoned that element of his leave application during proceedings on Monday, after the judge made clear he would be “very reluctant” to do anything that would be “trespassing into the realms” of a democratically elected Assembly. Mr Bryson had challenged Mr Benn’s move to initiate the democratic consent process that is required under the UK and EU’s Windsor Framework deal to extend the trading arrangements that apply to Northern Ireland. The previously stated voting intentions of the main parties suggest that Stormont MLAs will vote to continue the measures for another four years when they convene to debate the motion on Tuesday. After the ruling, Mr Bryson told the court he intended to appeal to the Court of Appeal. Any hearing was not expected to come later on Monday. In applying for leave, the activist’s argument was founded on three key grounds. The first was the assertion that Mr Benn failed to make sufficient efforts to ensure Stormont’s leaders undertook a public consultation exercise in Northern Ireland before the consent vote. The second was that the Secretary of State allegedly failed to demonstrate he had paid special regard to protecting Northern Ireland’s place in the UK customs territory in triggering the vote. The third ground centred on law changes introduced by the previous UK government earlier this year, as part of its Safeguarding the Union deal to restore powersharing at Stormont. He claimed that if the amendments achieved their purpose, namely, to safeguard Northern Ireland’s place within the United Kingdom, then it would be unlawful to renew and extend post-Brexit trading arrangements that have created economic barriers between the region and the rest of the UK. In 2023, the UK Supreme Court unanimously ruled that the trading arrangements for Northern Ireland are lawful. The appellants in the case argued that legislation passed at Westminster to give effect to the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement conflicted with the 1800 Acts of Union that formed the United Kingdom, particularly article six of that statute guaranteeing unfettered trade within the UK. The Supreme Court found that while article six of the Acts of Union has been “modified” by the arrangements, that was done with the express will of a sovereign parliament, and so therefore was lawful. Mr Bryson contended that amendments made to the Withdrawal Agreement earlier this year, as part of the Safeguarding the Union measures proposed by the Government to convince the DUP to return to powersharing, purport to reassert and reinforce Northern Ireland’s constitutional status in light of the Supreme Court judgment. He told the court that it was “quite clear” there was “inconsistency” between the different legal provisions. “That inconsistency has to be resolved – there is an arguable case,” he told the judge. However, Dr Tony McGleenan KC, representing the Government, described Mr Bryson’s argument as “hopeless” and “not even arguable”. He said all three limbs of the case had “no prospect of success and serve no utility”. He added: “This is a political argument masquerading as a point of constitutional law and the court should see that for what it is.” After rising to consider the arguments, Justice McAlinden delivered his ruling shortly after 7pm. The judge dismissed the application on the first ground around the lack consultation, noting that such an exercise was not a “mandatory” obligation on Mr Benn. On the second ground, he said there were “very clear” indications that the Secretary of State had paid special regard to the customs territory issues. On the final ground, Justice McAlinden found there was no inconsistency with the recent legislative amendments and the position stated in the Supreme Court judgment. “I don’t think any such inconsistency exists,” he said. He said the amendments were simply a “restatement” of the position as set out by the Supreme Court judgment, and only served to confirm that replacing the Northern Ireland Protocol with the Windsor Framework had not changed the constitutional fact that Article Six of the Acts of Union had been lawfully “modified” by post-Brexit trading arrangements. “It does no more than that,” he said. The framework, and its predecessor the NI Protocol, require checks and customs paperwork on goods moving from Great Britain into Northern Ireland. Under the arrangements, which were designed to ensure no hardening of the Irish land border post-Brexit, Northern Ireland continues to follow many EU trade and customs rules. This has proved highly controversial, with unionists arguing the system threatens Northern Ireland’s place in the United Kingdom. Advocates of the arrangements say they help insulate the region from negative economic consequences of Brexit. A dispute over the so-called Irish Sea border led to the collapse of the Northern Ireland Assembly in 2022, when the DUP withdrew then-first minister Paul Givan from the coalition executive. The impasse lasted two years and ended in January when the Government published its Safeguarding the Union measures. Under the terms of the framework, a Stormont vote must be held on articles five to 10 of the Windsor Framework, which underpin the EU trade laws in force in Northern Ireland, before they expire. The vote must take place before December 17. Based on the numbers in the Assembly, MLAs are expected to back the continuation of the measures for another four years, even though unionists are likely to oppose the move. DUP leader Gavin Robinson has already made clear his party will be voting against continuing the operation of the Windsor Framework. Unlike other votes on contentious issues at Stormont, the motion does not require cross-community support to pass. If it is voted through with a simple majority, the arrangements are extended for four years. In that event, the Government is obliged to hold an independent review of how the framework is working. If it wins cross-community support, which is a majority of unionists and a majority of nationalists, then it is extended for eight years. The chances of it securing such cross-community backing are highly unlikely.None

The news of his investigation has sent shockwaves through the medical community, with many expressing disbelief and concern over the allegations against such a highly respected figure. Colleagues and peers have described Liu Yusheng as a dedicated and passionate researcher who has made significant contributions to the advancement of reproductive medicine.As the nation grapples with the implications of this case, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges of racial injustice and inequality in America. The acquittal of the former Marine in the choking death of an African American man highlights the deep-rooted issues that continue to plague our society and underscores the urgent need for meaningful change and reform.

One of the key factors contributing to this volatile market behavior is the ongoing economic uncertainty, both domestically and globally. The lingering concerns about the trade tensions between the world's major economies, as well as the potential impact of geopolitical events, have provided a shaky foundation for investors. Additionally, the recent fluctuations in commodity prices and currency exchange rates have added to the market's unease."Teamwork is the cornerstone of success in Hawkeye Challenge," Lin emphasized. "Each member brings their unique skills and strengths to the table, and by working together seamlessly, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way."

In the end, Oscar's time in China was about more than just wins and losses or financial gains. It was a transformative experience that shaped him as a player, a person, and a cultural bridge between East and West. As he bids farewell to the Chinese football stage, Oscar leaves behind a legacy of resilience, adaptability, and gratitude that will be remembered long after he has moved on to his next adventure. Farewell, Oscar, and thank you for the memories.Janet Yellen tells Congress US could hit debt limit in mid-JanuaryEl presidente electo de Estados Unidos, Donald Trump, sube al escenario para pronunciar un discurso en los FOX Nation Patriot Awards, el 5 de diciembre de 2024, en Greenvale, Nueva York. (AP Foto/Heather Khalifa) FILE – Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., speaks before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at a campaign event, Sept. 27, 2024 in Walker, Mich. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio) FILE – Former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, speaks before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally at First Horizon Coliseum, Nov. 2, 2024, in Greensboro, NC. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File) FILE – Mehmet Oz visits the AW Driving School & License Testing Center in Allentown, Pa., Sept. 23, 2022. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File) FILE – Former Rep. Doug Collins speaks before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at a campaign event at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Oct. 15, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore, File) El presidente electo de Estados Unidos, Donald Trump, sube al escenario para pronunciar un discurso en los FOX Nation Patriot Awards, el 5 de diciembre de 2024, en Greenvale, Nueva York. (AP Foto/Heather Khalifa) By CHRISTINE FERNANDO CHICAGO (AP) — As Donald Trump’s Cabinet begins to take shape, those on both sides of the abortion debate are watching closely for clues about how his picks might affect reproductive rights policy in the president-elect’s second term . Trump’s cabinet picks offer a preview of how his administration could handle abortion after he repeatedly flip-flopped on the issue on the campaign trail. He attempted to distance himself from anti-abortion allies by deferring to states on abortion policy, even while boasting about nominating three Supreme Court justices who helped strike down the constitutional protections for abortion that had stood for half a century. In an NBC News interview that aired Sunday, Trump said he doesn’t plan to restrict medication abortion but also seemed to leave the door open, saying “things change.” “Things do change, but I don’t think it’s going to change at all,” he said. The early lineup of his new administration , including nominations to lead health agencies, the Justice Department and event the Department of Veterans Affairs, has garnered mixed — but generally positive — reactions from anti-abortion groups. Abortion law experts said Trump’s decision to include fewer candidates with deep ties to the anti-abortion movement could indicate that abortion will not be a priority for Trump’s administration. “It almost seems to suggest that President Trump might be focusing his administration in other directions,” said Greer Donley, an associate law professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. Karen Stone, vice president of public policy at Planned Parenthood Action Fund , said while many of the nominees have “extensive records against reproductive health care,” some do not. She cautioned against making assumptions based on Trump’s initial cabinet selections. Still, many abortion rights groups are wary, in part because many of the nominees hold strong anti-abortion views even if they do not have direct ties to anti-abortion activists. They’re concerned that an administration filled with top-level officials who are personally opposed to abortion could take steps to restrict access to the procedure and funding. After Trump’s ambiguity about abortion during his campaign, “there’s still a lot we don’t know about what policy is going to look like,” said Mary Ruth Ziegler, a law professor at the University of California, Davis School of Law. That approach may be revealed as the staffs within key departments are announced. Trump announced he would nominate anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Health and Human Services Department, which anti-abortion forces have long targeted as central to curtailing abortion rights nationwide. Yet Kennedy shifted on the issue during his own presidential campaign. In campaign videos, Kennedy said he supports abortion access until viability , which doctors say is sometime after 21 weeks, although there is no defined timeframe. But he also said “every abortion is a tragedy” and argued for a national ban after 15 weeks of pregnancy, a stance he quickly walked back. The head of Health and Human Services oversees Title X funding for a host of family planning services and has sweeping authority over agencies that directly affect abortion access, including the Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The role is especially vital amid legal battles over a federal law known as EMTALA, which President Joe Biden’s administration has argued requires emergency abortion access nationwide, and FDA approval of the abortion pill mifepristone. Mini Timmaraju, president of the national abortion rights organization Reproductive Freedom for All, called Kennedy an “unfit, unqualified extremist who cannot be trusted to protect the health, safety and reproductive freedom of American families.” His potential nomination also has caused waves in the anti-abortion movement. Former Vice President Mike Pence , a staunch abortion opponent, urged the Senate to reject Kennedy’s nomination. Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of the national anti-abortion group Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, said the group had its own concerns about Kennedy. “There’s no question that we need a pro-life HHS secretary,” she said. Fox News correspondent Marty Makary is Trump’s pick to lead the FDA, which plays a critical role in access to medication abortion and contraception. Abortion rights groups have accused him of sharing misinformation about abortion on air. Russell Vought , a staunch anti-abortion conservative, has been nominated for director of the Office of Management and Budget. Vought was a key architect of Project 2025 , a right-wing blueprint for running the federal government. Among other actions to limit reproductive rights, it calls for eliminating access to medication abortion nationwide, cutting Medicaid funding for abortion and restricting access to contraceptive care, especially long-acting reversible contraceptives such as IUD’s. Despite distancing himself from the conservative manifesto on the campaign trail, Trump is stocking his administration with people who played central roles in developing Project 2025. Trump acknowledged that drafters of the report would be part of his incoming administration during the Sunday interview with NBC News, saying “Many of those things I happen to agree with.” “These cabinet appointments all confirm that Project 2025 was in fact the blueprint all along, and the alarm we saw about it was warranted,” said Amy Williams Navarro, director of government relations for Reproductive Freedom for All. Dr. Mehmet Oz , Trump’s choice to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, is a former television talk show host who has been accused of hawking dubious medical treatments and products. He voiced contradictory abortion views during his failed Senate run in 2022. Oz has described himself as “strongly pro-life, praised the Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade , claimed “life starts at conception” and referred to abortion as “murder.” But he also has echoed Trump’s states-rights approach, arguing the federal government should not be involved in abortion decisions. “I want women, doctors, local political leaders, letting the democracy that’s always allowed our nation to thrive to put the best ideas forward so states can decide for themselves,” he said during a Senate debate two years ago. An array of reproductive rights groups opposed his Senate run. As CMS administrator, Oz would be in a key position to determine Medicaid coverage for family planning services and investigate potential EMTALA violations. Related Articles National Politics | Trump promises to end birthright citizenship: What is it and could he do it? National Politics | In promising to shake up Washington, Trump is in a class of his own National Politics | Election Day has long passed. In some states, legislatures are working to undermine the results National Politics | Trump taps his attorney Alina Habba to serve as counselor to the president National Politics | With Trump on the way, advocates look to states to pick up medical debt fight As Florida’s attorney general, Pam Bondi defended abortion restrictions, including a 24-hour waiting period. Now she’s Trump’s choice for attorney general . Her nomination is being celebrated by abortion opponents but denounced by abortion rights groups concerned she may revive the Comstock Act , an anti-vice law passed by Congress in 1873 that, among other things, bans mailing of medication or instruments used in abortion. An anti-abortion and anti-vaccine former Florida congressman, David Weldon, has been chosen to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which collects and monitors abortion data across the country. Former Republican congressman Doug Collins is Trump’s choice to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs amid a political battle over abortion access and funding for troops and veterans. Collins voted consistently to restrict funding and access to abortion and celebrated the overturning of Roe v. Wade. “This is a team that the pro-life movement can work with,” said Kristin Hawkins, president of the national anti-abortion organization Students for Life.

Germany to tighten criminal law as people-smuggling ‘action plan’ agreed with UKIt's been a great two weeks for the Michigan Wolverines, as they began by securing a flipped commitment from one of the top players in the class of 2025. Bryce Underwood decided to flip his commitment from LSU to Michigan, giving the Wolverines one of the top quarterbacks in the country next season. Michigan followed that recruiting win with a huge victory over Northwestern last week, and they kept the momentum going with Saturday's massive upset over Ohio State. Michigan entered as underdogs by more than three touchdowns, but they were able to win a closely contested, defensive game against the Buckeyes for their fourth straight victory over their rivals. After the game, Underwood showed his support for the Wolverines with a simple two-word message on social media. “Hail Yeahhhhhhhhhh," said the Michigan commit , who posted a graphic of the final score on his Instagram account. Bryce Underwood on Instagram after Michigan beats #2 Ohio State: “Hail Yeahhhhhhhhhh” https://t.co/grnjBpYorg pic.twitter.com/d6tstur1Wv Underwood is joining Michigan after he reportedly received a massive NIL offer from the school, giving him an easy decision after a smaller, less lucrative offer from LSU in order to stay. The Wolverines are in dire need of improvement at the quarterback position following struggles from Davis Warren and Alex Orji this season. The two quarterbacks were unable to match the production of 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy, who led Michigan to the national title and an undefeated 15-0 season in 2023. Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images Underwood is a multi-time state champion in Michigan, and he elected to return to his home state for college after being committed to LSU for nearly an entire year. With one of the best quarterbacks in the country heading to their program, Michigan will look to extend their winning streak over Ohio State. Michigan has beaten Ohio State four years in a row, their longest streak in the rivalry since the late 1980s and early 1990s. Some of the most dominant teams in Michigan history failed to reach that mark, and the current iteration of the program has been able to do so with two different head coaches. If Underwood is named Michigan's starter next season, he'll have his own chance to make his mark on the most prolific rivalry in college football. Related: Michigan Star On Ohio State Brawl: 'They Need To Learn How To Lose'

As we mourn the loss of this talented individual, it is crucial to reflect on the lessons that can be learned from this tragic incident. While massages are often sought after for their relaxing and therapeutic benefits, it is essential to be mindful of the potential risks associated with excessive or improper massage techniques.

Why Miami’s Pop-Tarts Bowl appearance is important even after missing College Football Playoff

2. Poor Diet and Physical Inactivity:

No. 10 Maryland holds off George Mason late, 66-56 in a matchup of unbeatensExplainer-Why OpenAI plans transition to public benefit corporation

Winter is approaching, and with it comes the anticipation of long nights and chilly days. As temperatures drop, southerners prepare to face the cold and embrace the beauty of the season. From cozying up by the fire with a good book to savoring hot drinks and comfort foods, there is much to look forward to as we welcome the arrival of winter in the south.

Beyond football, the Emirates Stadium is a hub of community engagement and social impact. Arsenal's outreach programs, charity initiatives, and sustainability efforts have made a positive difference in the lives of many individuals and groups. The stadium serves as a platform for unity, diversity, and inclusivity, fostering a sense of belonging and pride among supporters from all walks of life.

Western Digital Corp. stock underperforms Friday when compared to competitorstupungato Co-authored by Noah Cox and Brock Heilig. Investment Thesis Intel Corporation ( NASDAQ: INTC ) shares are up roughly 5.6% since the last time I covered the chipmaker over the summer, originally on the back of what the street thought was Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Noah Cox (main account author) is the managing partner of Noah’s Arc Capital Management. His views in this article are not necessarily reflective of the firms. Nothing contained in this note is intended as investment advice. It is solely for informational purposes. Invest at your own risk. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.

Xiaomi, a leading global technology company renowned for its innovative smartphones, smart home devices, and other consumer electronics, has officially announced its entry into the automotive industry with the upcoming launch of its first SUV model, the Xiaomi YU7. The highly anticipated vehicle is expected to hit the market in June or July next year, marking a significant milestone for Xiaomi as it expands its product offerings into the realm of smart electric vehicles.

On the other hand, the concept of "water tax" may also empower communities to take a more active role in water conservation efforts. By framing water usage as a taxable activity, it could incentivize individuals and businesses to become more mindful of their water consumption and make efforts to reduce wastage. In this sense, the change in language could serve as a catalyst for raising awareness about the importance of water conservation and fostering a culture of responsible water use.

Despite these challenges, the former Foreign Minister also highlighted the many opportunities for cooperation between China and the EU. He pointed to the potential for joint efforts in areas such as climate change, sustainable development, and global security. By working together, he believes that China and the EU can make significant progress in addressing common challenges and achieving shared objectives.

Makkah’s cultural gem offers journey through history and faithLooking Into UP Fintech Holding's Recent Short InterestAs we stand on the cusp of a new era in monetary policy, it is crucial for policymakers to strike a delicate balance between supporting growth and safeguarding financial stability. The coming year holds the promise of exciting changes in interest rate dynamics, with potential implications for borrowers, savers, and the broader economy.

The experience left Sarah with a renewed sense of determination to stand up for her rights and assert her worth in the face of injustice. She knew that the road ahead would be filled with obstacles and setbacks, but she was resolute in her belief that every woman deserved to be treated with dignity, respect, and equality – no exceptions, no excuses.POET Technologies Inc. ( CVE:PTK – Get Free Report ) shares shot up 18.1% on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as C$8.43 and last traded at C$8.24. 322,979 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 128% from the average session volume of 141,842 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$6.98. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Separately, Northland Capmk raised POET Technologies to a “strong-buy” rating in a research report on Monday, November 18th. Read Our Latest Stock Report on PTK POET Technologies Stock Up 18.1 % Insider Buying and Selling In other POET Technologies news, Senior Officer Vivek Rajgarhia sold 5,000 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction on Wednesday, December 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$7.24, for a total value of C$36,219.00. Also, Director James Lee sold 25,000 shares of the firm’s stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$6.95, for a total value of C$173,712.50. 0.82% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. About POET Technologies ( Get Free Report ) POET Technologies Inc designs, develops, manufactures, and sells discrete and integrated opto-electronic solutions in Canada, the United States, Singapore, and China. The company offers integration solutions based on the POET Optical Interposer, a novel platform that allows the seamless integration of electronic and photonic devices into a single multi-chip module using advanced wafer-level semiconductor manufacturing techniques. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for POET Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for POET Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

NoneANN/THE STRAITS TIMES – Singapore’s manufacturing sector continued its upward trajectory in November, recording a fifth straight month of growth, driven by a surge in the electronics industry. Analysts attribute the expansion to robust global demand and possible front-loading activities ahead of potential United States (US) tariff hikes. Data from the Economic Development Board released yesterday showed total factory output rising 8.5 per cent year-on-year. However, this fell short of the 9.7 per cent growth forecast by economists polled by Bloomberg. Excluding the more volatile biomedical sector, manufacturing output saw a stronger increase of 13 per cent. “Export demand for electronics remains robust, with the global semiconductor industry still in an upcycle,” noted senior country risk analyst at BMI Yen Nee Lee. She highlighted that Chinese exporters are likely accelerating shipments to the US ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, boosting demand for intermediate goods from Singapore. Despite the positive figures, analysts caution against over-optimism for 2025. Concerns about the Trump administration’s protectionist policies and rising geopolitical tensions could pose challenges for the manufacturing sector moving forward. Associate economist at UOB Jester Koh also noted the ongoing upturn in the electronics cycle, with tailwinds from “some front-loading of exports and attendant ramp up in production ahead of Trump’s proposed tariffs on US imports”. This could help support growth momentum in trade-related sectors, including manufacturing, into early 2025, he said. The electronics industry, which accounts for nearly half of Singapore’s manufacturing output, saw an increase of 26.2 per cent year-on-year, higher than the 4.3 per cent rise in October. Within the cluster, semiconductor output surged 28.8 per cent, while computer peripherals and data storage expanded 23.6 per cent, and infocomms and consumer electronics added 8.7 per cent. Other electronic modules and components fell 6.5 per cent. Precision engineering output inched 0.6 per cent higher year-on-year. Within the cluster, the machinery and systems segment expanded 4.3 per cent, driven by increased production in front-end semiconductor equipment. However, the precision modules and components segment fell 5.2 per cent, mostly led by lower output of optical instruments and metal precision components. Koh said the manufacturing outlook remains cloudy beyond early 2025. “Downside risks could emanate from further protectionist measures under Trump’s ‘America First’ policy, elevated geopolitical tensions, possible peak in the electronics cycle and uncertainty over the pace of monetary easing by major central banks,” he said. Barclays economist Brian Tan also sees a possible slowdown ahead in chip manufacturing. “We are seeing around Asia – not just in Singapore – signs of fatigue in the semiconductor cycle. If this falters, gross domestic product growth in 2025 could easily disappoint,” Tan said. He added, “We expect the uncertainty over US trade policy to start weighing on economic activity regardless of when tariffs are announced. Should US tariffs materialise, their impact on ultra-open Singapore is likely to be significant.” Beyond electronics and the related precision engineering cluster, Singapore’s other manufacturing industries fared worse in November. Biomedical manufacturing output fell 21.2 per cent from a year ago. Within the cluster, the pharmaceuticals segment declined 37.1 per cent on account of a different mix of active pharmaceutical ingredients being produced, compared with a year ago. The medical technology segment grew 5.8 per cent thanks to continued export demand for medical devices. General manufacturing output dropped 2.6 per cent, with all segments reporting declines.Manmohan Singh passes away at 92: Sunny Deol, Kapil Sharma, Sanjay Dutt, Riteish Deshmukh and others mourn the loss of India's former Prime Minister

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Another English giant said to be monitoring Rice's situation is Chelsea. The Blues have been on the lookout for a defensive midfielder to provide competition for N'Golo Kante, and Rice fits the bill perfectly. Having come through the ranks at Chelsea's academy before moving to West Ham, a return to Stamford Bridge could be tempting for Rice. Nevertheless, with West Ham demanding a hefty transfer fee for the young midfielder, Chelsea will have to weigh up the cost before making a move.

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South Korean authorities seek warrant to detain impeached presidentThe Los Angeles Dodgers have had a busy offseason. They were involved in the Juan Soto sweepstakes and signed Blake Snell. They however have not been able to bring back one of their key free agents and may need to replace him if he leaves. Newsweek's Zach Pressnell suggested that the Dodgers could pivot to Chicago White Sox' centerfielder Luis Robert Jr. to replace Teoscar Hernández. He proposed this trade that brings Robert to Los Angeles: Dodgers receive: outfielder Luis Robert Jr. White Sox receive: right-handed pitcher Bobby Miller, shortstop Joendry Vargas and outfielder Kendall George Robert started 100 games for the White Sox in 2024 and hit 14 home runs. He had a significant drop-off from his All-Star campaign in 2023. However, playing for a historically bad White Sox team could have played a role in that. In 2023 he played 145 games, hit 38 home runs, had 80 RBIs and a .857 OPS. Robert signed a six-year, $50 million extension with the White Sox in 2020. After 2025 he has two seasons with a $20 million club options. If he plays to his potential and stays healthy, that might actually be a bargain. Hernández was great for the Dodgers playing on his one-year deal. He hit a career-high 33 home runs and was named an All-Star. He became a fan favorite and was key in their World Series title. However, if they cannot agree to a deal with him, someone else will surely pay him what he wants. More MLB: $260 million All-Star hints at Yankees trade on social mediaGay Georgia couple sentenced to 100 years in jail for raping adopted sonsThis is how Brightcom Group shares will re-list on the BSE, NSE

If not for Will Howard's final-play blunder against Oregon on Oct. 12, Ohio State might be the higher-seeded team entering a much-anticipated rematch in the Rose Bowl on Wednesday. Howard certainly is focused on redemption when the No. 8 seed Buckeyes get another chance against the No. 1 seed Ducks in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals at Pasadena, Calif. Ohio State trailed 32-31 and was driving toward a possible game-winning field-goal attempt in Eugene, Ore., in October as a scrambling Howard was on the run and intentionally slid at the Oregon 26-yard line. One big problem -- time had expired. There would not be a field-goal try. "The way that last one ended doesn't sit right with me. It still doesn't," Howard said after Ohio State's 42-17 home thumping of No. 9 seed Tennessee in a first-round CFP matchup on Dec. 21. "Still bugs me." Howard will look for a different result when the Buckeyes (11-2) try to end the perfect season of Oregon (13-0). Howard, who transferred from Kansas State after last season, has delivered a solid season by passing for 3,171 yards and 29 touchdowns against nine interceptions. But the mental gaffe against Oregon seems to overshadow everything else. "I'm excited. It's going to be a heck of an opportunity for all of us," Howard said. "I think we've all been looking forward to this one, and for another crack at these guys." The heavyweight matchup will feature two prolific offenses, with Ohio State averaging 36 points per game and the Ducks at 35.9. Former Oregon coach Chip Kelly is the Buckeyes' offensive coordinator. Ducks quarterback Dillon Gabriel has completed 73.2 percent of his passes while throwing for 3,558 yards and 28 touchdowns against just six interceptions this season. The third-place finisher in Heisman Trophy balloting will make his 63rd career start. Gabriel transferred from Oklahoma after last season. He has thrown 153 career touchdown passes, two off the FBS record held by Houston's Case Keenum (2007-11). "I've been really impressed with Dillon's poise," Oregon coach Dan Lanning said. "It doesn't matter if there's just a couple seconds left in the clock or if it's fourth-and-9, I feel like he treats those plays the same as first-and-10 at the beginning of the game." The quarterback matchup was even in the mid-October game between Oregon and Ohio State. Gabriel passed for 341 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for one TD, while Howard threw for 326 yards and two touchdowns and also had one score on the ground. Both teams will dissect the first matchup and see how the opponent has evolved since then while formulating their game plans. "You look at what worked, you look at what didn't work, you look at how your teams change, and you try to play again through your strengths," Lanning said. "You look at how your opponent's teams change. So there's going to be some differences in this game from the last game, for sure." The Ducks are the lone unbeaten team in the nation and have scored more than 30 points on 11 occasions. Running back Jordan James complements Gabriel, having rushed for 1,253 yards and 15 touchdowns this season. He has six 100-yard outings. Ohio State lost to Michigan 13-10 in the regular-season finale. The Buckeyes have topped 30 points on 10 occasions. Howard has two big-time targets in Emeka Egbuka -- 65 receptions for 824 yards and nine touchdowns -- and Jeremiah Smith (63 for 1,037, 12 scores). The Buckeyes allow an average of 11.4 points per game compared with Oregon's 17.8. Who knows -- another close game with a quarterback called on to execute during a final drive could be in play again. "Will, I know, is excited to have an opportunity to play Oregon again," Buckeyes coach Ryan Day said. Ohio State leads the series 9-2, but the Ducks have won the past two games. --Field Level Media

I’m not running FCT based on religion – Wike fires back at MURIC

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Liverpool shines in Champions League, dumping Real Madrid down the table. Dortmund rises to 4th Liverpool stayed perfect in the Champions League. A 2-0 win at Anfield dumped title holder Real Madrid into an almost unbelievable 24th place in the 36-team standings. Liverpool's second half ghoals came from Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo, either side of Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappé having a penalty saved. Borussia Dortmund, is up to fourth place after beating Dinamo Zagreb 3-0. Monaco missed a chance to go second losing 3-2 at home to Benfica. The best comeback was at PSV Eindhoven. Te home team trailed Shakhtar Donetsk by two goals in the 87th minute of a 3-2 win. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.NEW YORK (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump’s recent dinner with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral were not just exercises in policy and diplomacy. They were also prime trolling opportunities for Trump. Throughout his first term in the White House and during his campaign to return, Trump has spun out countless provocative, antagonizing and mocking statements. There were his belittling nicknames for political opponents, his impressions of other political figures and the plentiful memes he shared on social media. Now that’s to the Oval Office, Trump is back at it, and his trolling is attracting more attention — and eyerolls. On Sunday, Trump turned a photo of himself seated near a smiling first lady Jill Biden at the Notre Dame ceremony for his new perfume and cologne line, with the tag line, “A fragrance your enemies can’t resist!” The first lady’s office declined to comment. When Trudeau hastily flew to Florida to meet with Trump last month over the president-elect’s on all Canadian products entering the U.S., that Canada become the 51st U.S. state. The Canadians passed off the comment as a joke, but Trump has continued to play up the dig, including in on his social media network referring to the prime minister as “Governor Justin Trudeau of the Great State of Canada.” After decades as an entertainer and tabloid fixture, Trump has a flair for the provocative that is aimed at attracting attention and, in his most recent incarnation as a politician, mobilizing fans. He has long relished poking at his opponents, both to demean and minimize them and to delight supporters who share his irreverent comments and posts widely online and cheer for them in person. Trump, to the joy of his fans, first publicly needled Canada on his social media network a week ago when he with a Canadian flag next to him and the caption “Oh Canada!” After his latest post, Canadian Immigration Minister Marc Miller said Tuesday: “It sounds like we’re living in a episode of South Park.” “his approach will often be to challenge people, to destabilize a negotiating partner, to offer uncertainty and even sometimes a bit of chaos into the well established hallways of democracies and institutions and one of the most important things for us to do is not to freak out, not to panic.” Even Thanksgiving dinner isn’t a trolling-free zone for Trump’s adversaries. On Thanksgiving Day, from “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” with President Joe Biden and other Democrats’ faces superimposed on the characters in a spoof of the turkey-carving scene. The video shows Trump appearing to explode out of the turkey in a swirl of purple sparks, with the former president stiffly dancing to one of his favorite songs, Village People’s “Y.M.C.A.” In his most recent presidential campaign, Trump mocked Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, refusing to call his GOP primary opponent by his real name and instead dubbing him “Ron DeSanctimonious.” He added, for good measure, in a post on his Truth Social network: “I will never call Ron DeSanctimonious ‘Meatball’ Ron, as the Fake News is insisting I will.” As he campaigned against Biden, Trump taunted him in online posts and with comments and impressions at his rallies, deriding the president over his intellect, his walk, his golf game and even his beach body. After Vice President Kamala Harris took over Biden’s spot as the Democratic nominee, Trump repeatedly suggested she never worked at McDonalds while in college. by appearing at a Pennsylvania McDonalds in October, when he manned the fries station and held an impromptu news conference from the restaurant drive-thru. Trump’s team thinks people should get a sense of humor. “President Trump is a master at messaging and he’s always relatable to the average person, whereas many media members take themselves too seriously and have no concept of anything else other than suffering from Trump Derangement Syndrome,” said Steven Cheung, Trump’s communications director. “President Trump will Make America Great Again and we are getting back to a sense of optimism after a tumultuous four years.” Though both the Biden and Harris campaigns and launched other stunts to respond to Trump’s taunts, so far America’s neighbors to the north are not taking the bait. “I don’t think we should necessarily look on Truth Social for public policy,” Miller said. Gerald Butts, a former top adviser to Trudeau and a close friend, said Trump brought up the 51st state line to Trudeau repeatedly during Trump’s first term in office. “Oh God,” Butts said Tuesday, “At least a half dozen times.” “This is who he is and what he does. He’s trying to destabilize everybody and make people anxious,” Butts said. “He’s trying to get people on the defensive and anxious and therefore willing to do things they wouldn’t otherwise entertain if they had their wits about them. I don’t know why anybody is surprised by it.”None

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Entire police department resigns leaving South Carolina community without law enforcement presenceDisplaced Palestinian children play at a shelter in Gaza City on Dec. 9, 2024. (Photo by Mahmoud Zaki/Xinhua) The escalating crises in the Middle East over the passing year have deepened human tragedies, geopolitical shifts, and socioeconomic challenges, leaving the region's prospects for 2025 shrouded in uncertainty. CAIRO, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- In a region where turmoil has long been the norm, the cascade of events in the Middle East in 2024 has nevertheless shocked the world due to its intensity and complexity. The Israel-Palestine conflict entered the second year, leaving Gaza stranded in a dire humanitarian crisis and creating ripple effects across Lebanon, Yemen and Iran. Apart from Israel's multiple-front wars, the escalating fighting in Sudan, rising instability in Libya, as well as the swift toppling of Bashar al-Assad's government in Syria, have created further chaos in the Middle East. The human tragedies, geopolitical shifts and socioeconomic challenges befalling the region throughout the year have cast a shadow over the future of the Middle East in 2025. INCREASING HOSTILITIES As mediators are still working to bridge the chasm between Israel and Palestine to create a Gaza ceasefire deal through indirect negotiations, Israel is launching more airstrikes and bombardment on the brittle enclave. The 14-month conflict has claimed more than 45,300 Palestinian lives and injured nearly 108,000 others, according to Gaza's health authorities. The UN estimates that, as of early December, over 1.6 million people were living in makeshift shelters, with 80 percent of Gaza under ongoing evacuation orders since October. "There is nowhere that civilians in Gaza are safe," Tom Fletcher, UN under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator, said Monday, noting that more humanitarians in Gaza have been killed in 2024 than any on record. The conflict in Gaza, the "eye of the storm," has also spread to neighboring regions, raising concerns that the Middle East is teetering on the brink of a wider regional war. Israel's airstrike on the Iranian Embassy in Syria in April prompted Iran to retaliate with a large-scale drone and missile assault on Israel and triggered further tit-for-tats between the two sides. Israel then killed Hamas Politburo Chief Ismail Haniyeh in July and Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah in September. In the following month, Israeli tanks crossed the border and advanced onto Lebanese soil. Despite a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, effective from Nov. 27 and aimed at ending a conflict that have reportedly claimed more than 4,000 lives in Lebanon, Israeli forces have continued their strikes, causing further casualties. Following a 12-day military operation by Syrian militant groups that resulted in the fall of al-Assad's government on Dec. 8, Israel launched extensive airstrikes on Syria and moved its troops into a demilitarized zone near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. As the year comes to an end, Israel has vowed to "act with force" against the Houthis in Yemen amid heavier exchanges of fire between the two sides. Israeli troops are seen near the buffer zone in the Golan Heights, on Dec. 15, 2024. (Photo by Jamal Awad/Xinhua) "Today, the Middle East serves as a battleground for Israel, which is engaged in multiple military confrontations," Washington-based think tank the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace said in mid-November, adding that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his allies "appear resolute in sustaining these conflicts ... rejecting negotiations and political settlements." "If there ever was a time to use superlatives about Middle Eastern affairs, the year 2024 is it ... The region's reordering is accompanied by great violence and renewed competition," the Financial Times opined last Sunday. INVISIBLE HAND While it is widely agreed that the chaos in the Middle East should be primarily understood from a historical viewpoint featuring unresolved problems among different ethnic groups in the region, many experts have agreed that external influences from the West, notably the United States, have also been a key factor in the region's ongoing war of attrition. In mid-November, the Council on Foreign Relations, a U.S. think tank, revealed that "Israel has long been the leading recipient of U.S. foreign aid, including military assistance" and that "the United States has provisionally agreed via a memorandum of understanding to provide Israel with 3.8 billion U.S. dollars per year through 2028." "U.S. military aid to Israel has soared to its highest in decades amid Israel's yearlong war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip," as it has enacted legislation providing at least 12.5 billion dollars in direct military aid to Israel, the think tank said. Researchers at Brown University estimated in early October that U.S. President Joe Biden's administration provided an additional 17.9 billion dollars to Israel since the start of the Gaza war. While the United States has dubbed itself a mediator in the Gaza ceasefire, it has repeatedly vetoed UN Security Council draft resolutions calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza. A Politico report in late September revealed that while Washington publicly urged Israel to curtail its strikes on Lebanon, senior White House figures privately backed Israel's military push against Hezbollah. Earlier this month, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken publicly admitted that his country's efforts spanning the last 20 years to seek regime change in Iran did not yield much success. People walk past a billboard showing late Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in Tehran, Iran, on Jan. 2, 2022, one day ahead of the second anniversary of his assassination by the United States in Iraq. (Xinhua/Gao Wencheng) The Pentagon also recently confirmed the first official increase in U.S. troops in Syria from around 900 to 2,000, noting that the additional deployments were made before al-Assad's ouster in response to the evolving security situation in Syria and to safeguard critical U.S. interests in the region. "The U.S. has a major role in these conflicts, as it is the one fueling these conflicts, standing behind them, planning them, and supporting them, although it always tries to deny its presence and direct intervention in these actions," Muthanna Mishaan al-Mazrouei, a professor of political geography at Iraq's Tikrit University, told Xinhua. "It's frankly embarrassing ... to see just the way we give in to the demands of the Israeli government and continue to support what the Israeli government is doing even though we know it's wrong," former U.S. State Department official Mike Casey told Al Jazeera on Dec. 21. UNATTAINABLE "LUXURIES" Some 1.9 million people had been displaced in Gaza as of October out of a population of 2.2 million. A study of children living through the Gaza war published in December found that 96 percent of them feel their death is imminent and almost half want to die due to the trauma they have been through. People try to get food relief in Jabalia refugee camp, northern Gaza Strip, Aug. 29, 2024. (Photo by Mahmoud Zaki/Xinhua) Nearly one million people, or one in five of Lebanon's population, have been displaced. In Syria, over 880,000 have fled their homes since Nov. 27, with around 6 percent living with disabilities. Cases of psychological trauma are surging across Syria, particularly among children. In Yemen, 385,000 children face severe acute malnutrition, while a failing health system leaves 540,000 vulnerable to diseases like cholera. Over 9 million people in Libya, Palestine, and Sudan urgently need humanitarian aid. The conflicts have taken a heavy economic toll on the region. The IMF projected in October that Middle Eastern economies may face prolonged recovery, with per capita gross domestic product (GDP) expected to drop by 10 percent even a decade after the Gaza conflict. Given the recurring armed conflicts and the subsequent socioeconomic setbacks in the Middle East in 2024, the international community has voiced its call for regional stability for the new year. "My hope is that Israel will change course and seek to advance a two-state solution with the Palestinians, paving the way for peacemaking and further normalization," Nimrod Goren, a senior fellow for Israeli Affairs at the Washington-based Middle East Institute, told Xinhua. UN agencies and countries worldwide have repeatedly called for an end to Israel's "aggression" against Gaza and urged a long-overdue ceasefire, expressed hope for a lasting Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire, supported an "inclusive, credible, and peaceful" Syrian-led political transition, and pledged increased humanitarian aid to war-torn Middle Eastern countries. Yet, for many experts, peace and development remain unattainable "luxuries" for the Middle East in the upcoming year. "As long as entrenched political elites, external interventions, and sectarian divisions remain dominant, the Middle East is likely to remain a volatile and contested region, with peace a distant and uncertain prospect," Mohamed Elchime, professor of Political Science at Helwan University in Egypt, told Xinhua. "Today the Middle East faces much uncertainty. There are countless questions about past-Assad Syria, Iran-Israel hostilities, the Gaza war, Israel's land theft in the West Bank, Houthi militancy, and the unpredictable nature of the incoming U.S. administration," Giorgio Cafiero, CEO of Washington-based geopolitical risk consultancy Gulf State Analytics, said Monday. "The regional situation is heading towards tension, deterioration and the unknown," Iraqi political analyst Ali Moussa told Xinhua. (Xinhua reporters Yao Bing and Dong Xiuzhu in Cairo, Wang Zhuolun in Jerusalem, Duan Minfu and Li Jun in Baghdad, and He Yiping in Amman contributed to the story.)

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HOUSTON (AP) — The Houston Texans made mistakes in every facet of the game Sunday against the Tennessee Titans to lose for the third time in four games. C.J. Stroud threw two interceptions, the defense gave up multiple big passing plays and Ka′imi Fairbairn missed a 28-yard field goal that would have tied it late in a 32-27 loss . “Just a disappointing loss for us,” coach DeMeco Ryans said. “We didn’t do anything well enough to win this game. Out of all the positives that we did have, there were way too many negatives, too many negative plays.” Jimmie Ward had a 65-yard interception return for a touchdown in the third quarter and the Texans tied a franchise record with eight sacks. Danielle Hunter led the group with a season-high three sacks and Will Anderson Jr. added two in his return after missing two games with an ankle injury. But the offense sputtered for most of the game as Joe Mixon was held to 22 yards on 14 carries. But Ryans refused to blame the offense for the loss. “Our offense did plenty," Ryans said. "They gave us enough points. On defense, we have to be able to stop them.” Chig Okonkwo grabbed a short pass and rumbled 70 yards for a touchdown to put the Titans (3-8) up 30-27 with 91⁄2 minutes remaining. Safety Eric Murray missed a tackle that would have stopped him near midfield. It was the last of three big passing plays the Titans had Sunday. Nick Westbrook-Ikhine got in front of the defense and was wide open for a 38-yard TD catch that made it 10-7 late in the first quarter. Calvin Ridley had a 63-yard reception that set up their next touchdown in the second. “It was just way too many negative plays,” Ryans said. “Defensively, unexplainable explosives for touchdowns. We didn’t play good across the board and that starts with me.” Despite this, the Texans (7-5) had a chance to tie it with less than two minutes remaining, but Fairbairn’s short field-goal attempt sailed wide left. He fell to the ground after the miss before getting up and slamming his helmet on the field. “The most frustrating part about it is out of all the bad things that happened, we still had a chance to finish the game,” Ryans said. “Everything that could go wrong, it went wrong. We still had a chance there to tie it up and finish the game, and we didn’t.” The Texans forced a three-and-out, but couldn’t move the ball after that and Harold Landry sacked Stroud in the end zone for a safety to make it 32-27 and allow Tennessee to snap a two-game skid. Stroud threw for 247 yards and two touchdowns, but his two interceptions Sunday give him five combined in the past three games. He now has more interceptions in 12 games this season (nine) than he had in 15 games as a rookie last season (five). “It’s no secret that I haven’t been playing well ... I’ve got to be harder on myself,” he said. “I’m not going to hold my head down. I know I can be a great player, but I’ve got to make better plays.” AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflArizona and TCU go into Monday's Big 12 opener at Tucson, Ariz., with the Wildcats looking to score at a fast pace and the Horned Frogs wanting to shut them down after allowing only one opponent to reach 80 points through their first 11 games. In that game -- an 83-74 loss to Vanderbilt in Fort Worth, Texas, on Dec. 8 -- TCU (7-4) lost leading scorer Frankie Collins to a season-ending broken foot. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. As property values continue to outpace inflation, property taxes are taking a bigger bite out of homeowners’ wallets. A new analysis from Construction Coverage breaks down property tax rates by state, county, and city to reveal where homeowners have the greatest burden. Click for more. Where Are U.S. Property Taxes Highest and Lowest? A State, County, and City Analysis

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Early returns positive as Timberwolves make a push to run in transitionThe Michigan Lottery is warning people of scam artists claiming to be lottery agents or prize winners. “Unfortunately, in this day and age there are bad actors who claim to be associated with lottery games and are looking to take advantage of others for their own gain,” Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli said. “The safety and security of our players is of utmost importance, and I want to remind everyone to be vigilant this holiday season. According to the lottery there are two types of lottery scams . In the first, a person gets a letter, email, text, or phone call to inform them that they’ve won a big lottery prize but they're told they must pay a fee to collect the prize. Once the person agrees the scam artist convinces them to mail a cashier’s check, make an electronic funds transfer, or even arranges a meeting to get the money in cash. California man claims he hasn't been paid $44 MILLION lottery prize months after winning Illinois Lottery player snags $10M jackpot prize on $50 scratch-off ticket The second is when a person is contacted by mail, email, text, or phone call by someone claiming to be a lottery prize winner and they want to share the prize with them, but only if they send money first. If the person agrees, the scam artist convinces them to mail a cashier’s check, make an electronic funds transfer, or even arranges a meeting to get the money in cash. The Michigan Lottery reminds players that they process all prize claims for free, and players must have a valid winning ticket to claim a prize. If you haven’t bought a Lottery ticket or played a Lottery game, there’s no way you could win a prize. This warning comes weeks after a 42-year-old Michigan man, who has chosen to remain anonymous, received a call from the Michigan Lottery headquarters telling the player from Macomb County that he won $100,000 after he was selected in a random drawing. He won the $100,000 prize playing the $300,000,000 Extraordinaire second chance game. “I must have listened to (the voicemail) at least 12 times because I was so stunned,” the lucky winner told lottery officials in a Nov. 21 news release. He was so convinced it wasn't true he did his due diligence to confirm before he got excited. '“I had a hard time believing it was real until I confirmed the phone number on the Lottery website and found an email from the Lottery confirming my prize. To check if a lottery prize, offer, or promotion is legitimate, members of the public may contact the Lottery at 844-917-6325. DAILY NEWSLETTER: Sign up here to get the latest news and updates from the Mirror US straight to your inbox with our FREE newsletter.

NoneWASHINGTON (AP) — Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland announced Monday that he will run to become the top Democrat on the powerful House Judiciary Committee next year, directly challenging fellow Democratic Rep. Jerry Nadler as the party prepares to fight a second Trump administration and an emboldened Republican majority. "House Democrats must stand in the breach to defend the principles and institutions of constitutional democracy," Raskin wrote in a letter to colleagues. “That is our historic assignment now. We dare not fail.” Raskin said in the letter — obtained by The Associated Press — that he decided to run for the post after spending the week consulting with House Democrats and “engaging in serious introspection” about where the party is following their stunning electoral defeat last month that handed Republicans control of Congress and the White House. While currently the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, Raskin said that come next year, the Judiciary Committee under his leadership would become "the headquarters of Congressional opposition to authoritarianism" as well as other efforts by President Donald Trump and his allies to thwart the Constitution. Being the face of the resistance against Trump is not new territory for Raskin who spent the last two years on Oversight as the most vocal defender of President Joe Biden and his family as they faced a sprawling Republican investigation — encouraged by Trump — into their various business affairs. Raskin, who is a former constitutional law professor, also helped draft articles of impeachment against the incoming president for his encouragement of the violent mob on Jan. 6, 2021, and led the impeachment prosecution in the Senate. But by throwing his hat in the ring, Raskin is inviting what a bitter intra-party fight with Nadler, who is currently serving his 17th term in Congress and who has held the top spot on Judiciary since 2019. Democrats have over the years rarely broken from the seniority system for committee assignments, no matter how long someone has held a position, making the outcome of the race uncertain. Both men did not respond to requests for comment but Raskin closed his letter by praising Nadler, saying that he made this decision “with respect and boundless admiration” for him. “If I’m lucky enough to be chosen for this responsibility in the 119th Congress, I will turn to Jerry first and throughout for his always wise counsel and political judgment,” Raskin added.

The Romanian Constitutional Court on Friday annulled the first round of the presidential election after declassified intelligence documents suggested Russian influence operations gave nationalist candidate Calin Georgescu his surprising victory. The Romanian president is an influential political leader but has limited power compared to the country’s prime minister. Romanians nonetheless vote for a president to work in tandem with the prime minister and other political leaders. Georgescu, 62, is a former soil scientist who worked for the Romanian environmental ministry and later represented Romania for the United Nations Environment Program. He entered politics as a member of the nationalist Alliance for the United of Romanians (AUR) party, but quit during party squabbles and became an independent candidate. Georgescu is an admirer of President-elect Donald Trump and has expressed agreement with him on numerous issues, including climate change and pushing back against LGBTQ propaganda. He has also expressed admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin, deep skepticism of Western support for Ukraine, and very harsh criticism of left-wing billionaire George Soros. This week, Georgescu said he intended to ban Ukrainian grain exports through Russia – a major pipeline for Ukrainian grain to avoid Russian blockades – and would discontinue further military aid to Kyiv. “It is unimaginable that there be a war next to us in the middle of Europe, so a priority will definitely be that this war in Ukraine must immediately be stopped,” he said. One area where Georgescu strongly disagrees with Trump is NATO spending. Trump has insisted NATO members should meet their obligation to spend two percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on defense, while Georgescu said he is “not even interested” in increasing military outlays. “The concern of the Romanian people is to be happy. They cannot be happy spending money on other things. If NATO is defensive, then it should remain defensive. I believe one thing – Romania has an obligation to no one,” he said. Georgescu is also an economic nationalist, running on a platform of giving Romanian companies majority control over joint investments with foreign entities, opposing the privatization of state assets, and challenging European Union funding programs that have failed to lift Romania out of poverty. “Have European funds helped us? Are we reliant on European funds? This country can’t produce? Don’t we have other investors? There is money everywhere in this world, let me tell you,” he said on Tuesday. Georgescu ran with strong Christian themes in his campaign, promoting traditional values and appealing to rural Romanians who felt alienated and abandoned by urban political culture. Agence France-Presse (AFP) found voters disgusted with Romania’s political establishment flocked to Georgescu, many of them choosing him over center-right alternatives because of the Christian faith message in his campaign and his resistance to the LGBTQ agenda. Much of that disgust is fueled by Romania’s status as one of the most corrupt nations in Europe; Transparency International regularly ranks it among the nations with the lowest integrity scores on the continent. Another trend among Georgescu voters is that they tended to distrust establishment media and they thought media criticism of the upstart candidate had gone too far overboard. Some told AFP they decided to give Georgescu a chance after watching his TikTok videos and concluding he was not the monster depicted in Romanian and international media. Georgescu was considered an obscure fringe candidate going into the election. He spent very little on his campaign – he claims he spent nothing, but others dispute that boast – and built most of his following with social media platforms, especially TikTok. “The most important existing function for promoting free speech and freedom of expression is social media,” he said when asked if he had any qualms about using the Chinese-owned TikTok as the primary vehicle for his campaign. Romanian media largely ignored him as a sideshow, but he developed a huge footprint online, winning an astounding 31 percent of the youth vote. International media uniformly described him as “far-right,” an “ultranationalist,” or even a “fascist,” but like other upstart right-wing candidates across the free world, he found ways to reach disaffected voters by going around the media. Romanian political observers were therefore stunned when he took first place in last week’s presidential election. When the results were released on Monday, Georgescu was out front with 22.9 percent of the vote. The second-place finisher, former journalist and mayor Elena Lasconi of the Save Romania Union (USR) party, took 19.17 percent, followed closely by sitting Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu of the center-left, pro-European Union Social Democrats (PSD). Ciolacu nabbed about 3,000 fewer votes than Lasconi, a narrow loss that excluded PSD from the mandatory second-round runoff election for the first time in three decades. There were actually 14 candidates in the race, most of them more “centrist” than Georgescu, so Monday brought confident predictions that voters for the other parties would rally against the dark-hose nationalist independent and boost Lasconi into office. The only other strongly right-leaning major candidate was populist George Simion, who expected to finish second and was stunned to find himself in fourth place behind Ciolacu. Polling soon made it clear that Georgescu was the front-runner in the second-round election to be held on Sunday, with support from Simion and the AUR party, further stunning the Romanian political and media establishment. On Friday, the Constitutional Court pulled the plug, raising an outcry from Georgescu voters who accused the long-in-power PSD of using the courts to nullify an election it could not win fairly. The Constitutional Court nullified the election after declassified Romanian intelligence documents were released early this week, accusing Georgescu of winning with the aid of some 25,000 phony TikTok accounts controlled by a Russian disinformation campaign. The documents further suggested the Romanian election system was compromised by a wave of over 85,000 cyberattacks. The speed, size, and scale of the assault was presented as evidence of coordination by a state actor, presumed to be Russia. On Thursday, Romania’s top prosecutor opened an investigation of “indications regarding electoral crimes that would have influenced the voting process, through methods such as corrupting voters, including in the online environment.” Several Romanian civil society groups quickly filed petitions demanding the annulment of the election, and on Friday the top court obliged those requests. The Court nullified “the entire electoral process concerning the election of the president of Romania” and said it would set a new date for the election to begin from scratch. Georgescu supporters cried foul. Simion declared the court was conducting a “coup d’etat” to keep PSD in power, and urged his supporters to make their disapproval known without staging messy protests that could be used as an excuse to crack down on them. “We are not taking to the streets, we will not be provoked. This system must fall democratically!” Simion said. “Nine politically appointed judges, scared that a candidate outside the system had all chances to become Romania’s president, decided to annul Romanians’ will,” he said. Lasconi also condemned the court ruling, saying it was “illegal, amoral, and crushes the very essence of democracy: voting.” “We should have moved forward with the vote. We should have respected the will of the Romanian people. Whether we like it or not, from a legal and legitimate standpoint, nine million Romanian citizens, both in the country and the diaspora, expressed their preference for a particular candidate through their votes. We cannot ignore their will!” she declared. “I know I would have won. And I will win because the Romanian people know I will fight for them, that I will unite them for a better Romania. I will defend our democracy. I will not give up,” she said. Prime Minister Ciolacu praised the court decision, calling it “the only correct solution” following the release of the intelligence report. “The Romanian people’s vote was flagrantly distorted as a result of Russian interference,” he said. “The presidential elections must be held again. At the same time, investigations by the authorities must uncover who is responsible for the massive attempt to influence the outcome of the presidential election,” he said. Georgescu himself dismissed the investigations into his campaign as the work of George Soros’ minions in an interview with Sky News on Thursday. “I can tell you one sentence. The last Soros Fortress has fallen. This man has made them desperate,” he said. Interestingly, no major media outlet seems to have asked Georgescu what he thinks about the court action as of late Friday morning, or has informed their readers of anything he might have said online. Georgescu’s supporters seem determined to stand behind him, which raises the distinct possibility that he will win the rerun election – perhaps by even broader margins, if enough Romanians agree with Simion that the Constitutional Court staged a coup. As of Friday morning, there does not appear to be any discussion of banning Georgescu from running again.Playwards Launches Innovative Gaming Platform Combining Fun and Real-World Rewards

You never know if president-elect Donald Trump is bluffing, but when you have billions of dollars on the line, you have to take him seriously. So car companies took notice, when Trump announced a plan for huge new tariffs in a social media post before Thanksgiving. A 25 percent tax on imports from Canada and Mexico would have a major impact on the car industry, which depends heavily on cross border trade. Trump's tariffs could have huge consequences for the people who make cars, and the people who buy them. Even if he's bluffing, he has other big plans to shake up the auto industry. For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for C onsider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org . Email us at considerthis@npr.org . This episode was produced by Connor Donevan.It was edited by Courtney Dorning, Emily Kopp and Kara Platoni.Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.

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MURRAY, Ky. (AP) — Jacobi Wood had 23 points in Murray State's 73-53 victory against Southeast Missouri State on Sunday night. Wood also added nine rebounds for the Racers (6-2, 1-0 Missouri Valley Conference). Nick Ellington added 15 points while going 6 of 8 and 3 of 6 from the free-throw line while they also had eight rebounds and three steals. Terence Harcum had 12 points and shot 4 for 12, including 3 for 7 from beyond the arc. Brendan Terry led the Redhawks (3-6) in scoring, finishing with 12 points and six rebounds. Southeast Missouri State also got 12 points from Tedrick Washington Jr.. Rob Martin finished with eight points and five assists. Murray State got a team-high eight points across the first half from Ellington, but it was only enough to head to the locker room with the score tied at the half 33-33. Wood scored 20 points in the second half to help lead the way as Murray State went on to secure a victory, outscoring Southeast Missouri State by 20 points in the second half. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

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What's the diagnosis for ASX healthcare shares in 2025?Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bullish stance on Microchip Technology . Looking at options history for Microchip Technology MCHP we detected 10 trades. If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 70% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 20% with bearish. From the overall spotted trades, 7 are puts, for a total amount of $647,449 and 3, calls, for a total amount of $215,668. What's The Price Target? Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $47.5 to $87.5 for Microchip Technology during the past quarter. Volume & Open Interest Development In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Microchip Technology stands at 373.38, with a total volume reaching 5,381.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Microchip Technology, situated within the strike price corridor from $47.5 to $87.5, throughout the last 30 days. Microchip Technology Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days Biggest Options Spotted: Symbol PUT/CALL Trade Type Sentiment Exp. Date Ask Bid Price Strike Price Total Trade Price Open Interest Volume MCHP PUT SWEEP BEARISH 12/20/24 $3.1 $2.95 $3.0 $70.00 $430.3K 489 1.4K MCHP CALL SWEEP BULLISH 02/21/25 $4.9 $4.7 $4.9 $70.00 $98.0K 584 212 MCHP CALL SWEEP BEARISH 02/21/25 $2.3 $2.2 $2.18 $77.50 $76.7K 140 751 MCHP PUT SWEEP BULLISH 12/20/24 $2.05 $2.0 $2.05 $67.50 $49.6K 1.1K 435 MCHP PUT SWEEP BULLISH 05/16/25 $7.8 $7.6 $7.6 $70.00 $41.0K 298 314 About Microchip Technology Microchip Technology became an independent company in 1989 when it was spun off from General Instrument. More than half of revenue comes from MCUs, which are used in a wide array of electronic devices from remote controls to garage door openers to power windows in autos. The company's strength lies in lower-end 8-bit MCUs that are suitable for a wider range of less technologically advanced devices, but the firm has expanded its presence in higher-end MCUs and analog chips as well. In light of the recent options history for Microchip Technology, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance. Current Position of Microchip Technology Trading volume stands at 3,162,874, with MCHP's price down by -1.88%, positioned at $68.54. RSI indicators show the stock to be may be approaching oversold. Earnings announcement expected in 65 days. Professional Analyst Ratings for Microchip Technology 5 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $88.4. Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. Click here for access .* An analyst from Susquehanna persists with their Positive rating on Microchip Technology, maintaining a target price of $90. * Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Citigroup continues to hold a Buy rating for Microchip Technology, targeting a price of $82. * Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Rosenblatt keeps a Buy rating on Microchip Technology with a target price of $90. * Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Piper Sandler keeps a Overweight rating on Microchip Technology with a target price of $85. * An analyst from Evercore ISI Group downgraded its action to Outperform with a price target of $95. Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely. If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Microchip Technology, Benzinga Pro gives you real-time options trades alerts. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Ukraine must be placed in the “strongest possible position for negotiations” to end the war with Russia, Sir Keir Starmer has said. The Prime Minister insisted the UK will back Ukraine “for as long as it takes” as he made a speech at the Lord Mayor’s Banquet in London, but for the first time acknowledged the conflict could move towards a negotiated end. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has in recent weeks suggested he is open to a possible ceasefire with Vladimir Putin’s Russia. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer during the annual Lord Mayor’s Banquet at the Guildhall in central London (Yui Mok/PA) President-elect Trump has said he would prefer to move towards a peace deal, and has claimed he could end the conflict on “day one” of his time in power. As he attempts to strike up a good relationship with the incoming president, Sir Keir revealed he had told Mr Trump the UK “will invest more deeply than ever in this transatlantic bond with our American friends in the years to come”. In his speech at London’s Guildhall, the Prime Minister said there is “no question it is right we support Ukraine”, as the UK’s aid to Kyiv is “deeply in our self-interest”. Allowing Russia to win the war would mean “other autocrats would believe they can follow Putin’s example,” he warned. Sir Keir added: “So we must continue to back Ukraine and do what it takes to support their self-defence for as long as it takes. “To put Ukraine in the strongest possible position for negotiations so they can secure a just and lasting peace on their terms that guarantees their security, independence, and right to choose their own future.” Mr Zelensky told Sky News over the weekend he would be open to speaking with Mr Putin, but branded the Russian president a “terrorist”. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer (centre) with Lord Mayor of the City of London Alastair King (centre left) during the annual Lord Mayor’s Banquet at the Guildhall in central London (Yui Mok/PA) In a banquet speech focused on foreign affairs, the Prime Minister said it was “plain wrong” to suggest the UK must choose between its allies, adding: “I reject it utterly. “(Clement) Attlee did not choose between allies. (Winston) Churchill did not choose. “The national interest demands that we work with both.” Sir Keir said the UK and the US were “intertwined” when it came to commerce, technology and security. The Prime Minister added: “That’s why, when President Trump graciously hosted me for dinner in Trump Tower, I told him that we will invest more deeply than ever in this transatlantic bond with our American friends in the years to come.” He also repeated his commitment to “rebuild our ties with Europe” and insisted he was right to try to build closer links with China. “It is remarkable that until I met President Xi last month there had been no face-to-face meeting between British and Chinese leaders for six years,” the Prime Minister said. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer speaks during the annual Lord Mayor’s Banquet at the Guildhall in central London (Yui Mok/PA) The Prime Minister said he wants Britain’s role in the world to be that of “a constant and responsible actor in turbulent times”. He added: “To be the soundest ally and to be determined, always, in everything we do. “Every exchange we have with other nations, every agreement we enter into to deliver for the British people and show, beyond doubt, that Britain is back.” Ahead of Sir Keir’s speech, Lord Mayor Alastair King urged the Prime Minister and his Government to loosen regulations on the City of London to help it maintain its competitive edge. In an echo of Sir Keir’s commitment to drive the UK’s economic growth, the Lord Mayor said: “The idealist will dream of growth, but the pragmatist understands that our most effective machinery to drive growth is here in the City, in the hands of some of the brightest and most committed people that you will find anywhere in the world.”Vardy helps Van Nistelrooy to first win with Leicester as Guehi defies the FA with religious message

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The would-be assassin of former President Ronald Reagan has a new business venture, he announced Monday. John Hinckley Jr., who shot and wounded Reagan in 1981 and was acquitted by reason of insanity, had spent decades in a Washington mental health hospital after the assassination attempt. Since being freed from court oversight in 2022, Hinckley has spent recent years posting videos of his music and promoting live shows. And on Monday, Hinckley announced he would be opening up a music store. “I’ll be opening a music store in Williamsburg, Va. The address is 455 Merrimack Trail. Grand opening is in a week or two!” he wrote on social media platform X. I’ll be opening a music store in Williamsburg, Va. The address is 455 Merrimack Trail. Grand opening is in a week or two! Hinckley has also promoted his live music shows on X, but has noted that some venues have cancelled on him in the past. He also posts his music to his YouTube channel. After the 2024 election, Hinckley told his followers to stop with the “negative” comments. “A lot of the comments on my Twitter/X feed have been alarming, so I have to keep reminding people that I am a changed person from the way I was in 1981,” he wrote in a blog post. “My songs are about peace and love and overcoming hard times. A lot of people have told me that listening to my songs helps them get through their day. I strive for positive vibes, not the negativity you see everywhere today,” he added. Hinckley told The New York Times in a July interview that he uses music to “redeem” himself. “People have different definitions of redemption,” Hinckley told The New York Times. “My definition of redemption is to make amends for all the negativity that I created in 1981. I’m trying to redeem myself through positive music, through a thing that people really like — as opposed to the things they really hated about me, in 1981.” He also said in the interview that while he enjoys living in Williamsburg, Va. because people do not bother him, he has thought about living in more music-centered cities like Nashville, Los Angeles or New York. “I’m basically a struggling musician,” he told the Times. “I’ve had a lot of people say to me, ‘John, you’re like so many other struggling musicians.’ And it’s true. I am.” Hinckley did not provide any other details about his music store on social media on Monday. Stories by Lauren Sforza Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com .Trump's picks for key positions in his second administration

Insurgents reach gates of Syria’s capital, threatening to upend decades of Assad rule BEIRUT (AP) — Insurgents' stunning march across Syria accelerated Saturday with news that they had reached the gates of the capital and that government forces had abandoned the central city of Homs. Bassem Mroue And Zeina Karam, The Associated Press Dec 7, 2024 1:58 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Syrian opposition fighters remove a government Syrian flag from an official building in Salamiyah, east of Hama, Syria Syria, Saturday Dec. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Ghaith Alsayed) BEIRUT (AP) — Insurgents' stunning march across Syria accelerated Saturday with news that they had reached the gates of the capital and that government forces had abandoned the central city of Homs. The government was forced to deny rumors that President Bashar Assad had fled the country. The loss of Homs is a potentially crippling blow for Assad. It stands at an important intersection between Damascus and Syria’s coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus — the Syrian leader’s base of support and home to a Russian strategic naval base. The pro-government Sham FM reported that government forces took positions outside Syria’s third-largest city, without elaborating. Rami Abdurrahman who heads the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said Syrian troops and members of different security agencies have withdrawn from the city, adding that rebels have entered parts of it. The capture of Homs is a major victory for insurgents, who have already seized the cities of Aleppo and Hama , as well as large parts of the south, in a lightning offensive that began Nov. 27. Analysts said Homs falling into rebel hands would be a game-changer. The rebels' moves around Damascus, reported by the monitor and a rebel commander, came after the Syrian army withdrew from much of southern part of the country, leaving more areas, including several provincial capitals, under the control of opposition fighters. For the first time in the country’s long-running civil war, the government now has control of only three of 14 provincial capitals: Damascus, Latakia and Tartus. The advances in the past week were among the largest in recent years by opposition factions, led by a group that has its origins in al-Qaida and is considered a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the United Nations. In their push to overthrow Assad's government, the insurgents, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, or HTS, have met little resistance from the Syrian army. The rapid rebel gains, coupled with the lack of support from Assad's erstwhile allies, posed the most serious threat to his rule since the start of the war. The U.N.’s special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, on Saturday called for urgent talks in Geneva to ensure an “orderly political transition.” Speaking to reporters at the annual Doha Forum in Qatar, he said the situation in Syria was changing by the minute. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, whose country is Assad's chief international backer, said he feels “sorry for the Syrian people.” In Damascus, people rushed to stock up on supplies. Thousands went to Syria's border with Lebanon, trying to leave the country. Many shops in the capital were shuttered, a resident told The Associated Press, and those still open ran out of staples such as sugar. Some were selling items at three times the normal price. “The situation is very strange. We are not used to that,” the resident said, insisting on anonymity, fearing retributions. “People are worried whether there will be a battle (in Damascus) or not.” It was the first time that opposition forces reached the outskirts of Damascus since 2018, when Syrian troops recaptured the area following a yearslong siege. The U.N. said it was moving noncritical staff outside the country as a precaution. Assad's status Syria’s state media denied social media rumors that Assad left the country, saying he is performing his duties in Damascus. He has had little, if any, help from his allies. Russia, is busy with its war in Ukraine . Lebanon’s Hezbollah, which at one point sent thousands of fighters to shore up Assad's forces, has been weakened by a yearlong conflict with Israel. Iran has seen its proxies across the region degraded by regular Israeli airstrikes. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on Saturday posted on social media that that the United States should avoid engaging militarily in Syria. Pedersen said a date for talks in Geneva on the implementation a U.N. resolution, adopted in 2015, and calling for a Syrian-led political process, would be announced later. The resolution calls for the establishment of a transitional governing body, followed by the drafting of a new constitution and ending with U.N.-supervised elections. Later Saturday, foreign ministers and senior diplomats from eight key countries, including Saudi Arabia, Russia, Egypt, Turkey and Iran, along with Pederson, gathered on the sidelines of the Doha Summit to discuss the situation in Syria. In a statement issued late Saturday, the participants affirmed their support for a political solution to the Syrian crisis “that would lead to the end of military activity and protect civilians.” They also agreed on the importance of strengthening international efforts to increase aid to the Syrian people. The insurgents' march Rami Abdurrahman, who heads the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, said insurgents were in the Damascus suburbs of Maadamiyah, Jaramana and Daraya. Opposition fighters were marching toward the Damascus suburb of Harasta, he added. A commander with the insurgents, Hassan Abdul-Ghani, posted on the Telegram messaging app that opposition forces had begun the “final stage” of their offensive by encircling Damascus. HTS controls much of northwest Syria and in 2017 set up a “salvation government” to run day-to-day affairs in the region. In recent years, HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani has sought to remake the group’s image, cutting ties with al-Qaida, ditching hard-line officials and vowing to embrace pluralism and religious tolerance. The shock offensive began Nov. 27, during which gunmen captured the northern city of Aleppo, Syria’s largest, and the central city of Hama , the country’s fourth largest city. Opposition activists said Saturday that a day earlier, insurgents entered Palmyra, which is home to invaluable archaeological sites had been in government hands since being taken from the Islamic State group in 2017. To the south, Syrian troops left much of the province of Quneitra including the main Baath City, activists said. Syrian Observatory said government troops have withdrawn from much of the two southern provinces. The Syrian army said in a statement that it carried out redeployment and repositioning in Sweida and Daraa after its checkpoints came under attack by “terrorists." The army said it was setting up a “strong and coherent defensive and security belt in the area,” apparently to defend Damascus from the south. The Syrian government has referred to opposition gunmen as terrorists since conflict broke out in March 2011. Diplomacy in Doha The foreign ministers of Iran, Russia and Turkey, meeting in Qatar, called for an end to the hostilities. Turkey is a main backer of the rebels. Qatar's top diplomat, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, criticized Assad for failing to take advantage of the lull in fighting in recent years to address the country’s underlying problems. “Assad didn’t seize this opportunity to start engaging and restoring his relationship with his people,” he said. Sheikh Mohammed said he was surprised by how quickly the rebels have advanced and said there is a real threat to Syria’s “territorial integrity.” He said the war could “damage and destroy what is left if there is no sense of urgency” to start a political process. ____ Karam reported from London. Associated Press writers Albert Aji in Damascus, Syria; Qassim Abdul-Zahra in Baghdad; and Josef Federman and Victoria Eastwood in Doha, Qatar, contributed to this report. Bassem Mroue And Zeina Karam, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message More World News An archbishop's knock formally restores Notre Dame to life as winds howl and heads of state look on Dec 7, 2024 1:59 PM US announces nearly $1 billion more in longer-term weapons support for Ukraine Dec 7, 2024 1:41 PM US announces nearly $1 billion more in longer-term weapons support for Ukraine Dec 7, 2024 1:37 PM Featured FlyerA WOMAN has claimed she fixed her thin hair with a weekly hack she swears by. Faith Drew took to social media to show off her thick, long locks while sharing her secret to healthy hair . She showed a picture of her hair a few years ago, which was much shorter and thinner than the locks on her head now and revealed it was all down to looking after her scalp. The beauty fan said: "Scalp health is so important. "Your hair grows from the root. "Our scalp actually ages 12 times faster than the skin on our body. READ MORE HAIR HACKS "So it's no wonder that as we age, our hair can be one of the first things to go." Faith said she began to notice excess hair fallout and her hairline had started to recede. But now her hair is so full she gets asked daily if she wears extensions - which she doesn't. Her secret? She revealed it was all down to one weekly beauty treatment, scalp oiling. Most read in Fabulous "I have done weekly oil treatments now for the last two and a half years," she explained. Faith also linked the product she used in her bio, the Monat hair thinning defense oil which costs £77. The product contains caffeine to promote new hair growth as it stimulates blood flow to the scalp - but you can also try the Plantur 39 Phtyo Caffeine Tonic from Boots for just £10.99. The clips were a hit on her TikTok account @ faithdrew_ where she boasts over 133k followers and 3.9 million likes. People were quick to take to the comments thanking her for the advice. One person wrote: "Explain howwww." We can lose between 50 and 100 hairs a day, according to the NHS. It is not usually something to worry about, but occasional it can be a sign of a medical concern. These include illness, stress, cancer treatment, weight loss and iron deficiency. The NHS advises to book an appointment with your GP to see if you can get to the cause of it. Experts at American Academy of Dermatology Association also recommend to eat healthy, limit curling irons and only use them for special occasions. They also recommend using a gentle shampoo, and make use of leave-in conditioners. Another commented: "Omg I need this BAD." "What did you use please," penned a third. READ MORE SUN STORIES Meanwhile a fourth said: "can you show your hair care products?" Fabulous will pay for your exclusive stories. Just email: fabulousdigital@the-sun.co.uk and pop EXCLUSIVE in the subject line .

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