Pope Leo XIV’s upcoming three-day visit to Lebanon has ignited a wave of hope among Lebanese citizens, both at home and abroad, as the nation grapples with persistent crises and conflict. The pontiff, who will arrive in Beirut on Sunday after a stop in Turkey, is set to lead an open-air mass at the city’s waterfront, expected to attract 120,000 attendees. The visit also includes a special meeting with young people aged 16 to 35 in Bkerke, the seat of Lebanon’s Maronite Church. For many, the papal visit symbolizes a beacon of reassurance and unity for a country battered by economic collapse, political instability, and ongoing regional tensions. Rachelle Mazraani, a 23-year-old Lebanese-Australian, expressed her optimism, stating that the visit reminds the Lebanese of their enduring spiritual identity and mission in the region. Lebanon, a multi-confessional nation with a Christian head of state, has seen its Christian population dwindle due to emigration and crises. The pope’s message of peace and interfaith dialogue is particularly poignant as the country faces regular Israeli strikes and fears of renewed conflict. Billboards across Lebanon featuring the pope with the slogan ‘Blessed are the peacemakers’ reflect the nation’s yearning for stability. The visit has also drawn significant international attention, with delegations from countries like Syria and Nigeria participating in the youth meeting. For many, the event represents a historic moment to inspire unity and rebuild a fractured nation. Lebanon has declared a two-day official holiday to encourage public participation, while hotels are offering special deals to accommodate visitors. Despite the challenges, the pope’s visit is seen as a catalyst for hope and renewal in a region grappling with turmoil.
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Trump rages at report that he is increasingly frail
US President Donald Trump has vehemently criticized a New York Times article that highlighted his age and apparent signs of fatigue, labeling the publication as an ‘enemy of the people’ and personally attacking the female author of the report. In a lengthy post on his Truth Social platform, the 79-year-old Republican leader dismissed the claims, asserting that he is in peak physical and cognitive condition. Trump emphasized his recent ‘perfect physical exam’ and a cognitive test he claims to have ‘aced,’ while also listing his accomplishments, including last year’s election victory and a robust US stock market. Despite his vigorous defense, the Times report noted a reduction in Trump’s public events and domestic travel compared to his first term, alongside instances where he appeared to fall asleep during official duties. The article also raised questions about his health, citing an October MRI scan and visible physical ailments. Trump’s aggressive response included derogatory remarks about the reporter, continuing a pattern of personal attacks on journalists. The Times stood by its reporting, stating that its coverage is based on factual, firsthand reporting and will not be deterred by intimidation tactics.
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Two National Guard members in critical condition after shooting near White House
In a shocking incident that unfolded near the White House, two National Guard members were critically injured in what authorities have described as a targeted shooting. The attack occurred less than two blocks from the presidential residence on Wednesday afternoon, prompting a temporary lockdown of the White House and a halt to flights at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The suspect, who was subdued by nearby National Guard troops, opened fire near the Farragut Square Metro Station, a bustling area frequented by office workers during lunch hours. The motive and identity of the assailant remain unclear. President Donald Trump, who was in Florida at the time, condemned the attack on Truth Social, vowing that the perpetrator would face severe consequences. The incident has reignited debates over the deployment of National Guard troops in Democratic-led cities, a move that has faced legal challenges. The FBI is leading the investigation, with Director Kash Patel labeling the assault as a ‘brazen act of violence.’ The injured soldiers, both from West Virginia, are currently hospitalized, and conflicting reports have emerged about their condition. The attack has drawn widespread condemnation, with Vice-President JD Vance urging prayers for the victims. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the deployment of an additional 500 National Guard members to Washington DC in response to the incident. The National Guard, a reservist force with limited law enforcement powers, was initially deployed to the capital in August to address rising crime rates. While crime statistics have shown a decline since their arrival, the extent of their impact remains uncertain. The intersection where the shooting occurred was flooded with police and security personnel, and eyewitnesses recounted scenes of panic as people sought shelter. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges of gun violence in the United States, particularly in urban centers.
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Watch: How the shooting of two National Guard members unfolded
In a shocking incident near the White House in Washington D.C., two National Guard members were critically injured in a shooting. The attack occurred just blocks away from the presidential residence, raising immediate concerns about security in the nation’s capital. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the assault, which has left the two soldiers fighting for their lives. The proximity of the incident to such a high-profile location has prompted heightened vigilance and calls for a thorough review of safety protocols in the area. The community and officials alike are awaiting further details as the investigation unfolds.
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Dubai’s AI officer in every govt department is ‘leading by example’, says top official
Dubai’s strategic early adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) has positioned the emirate as a global leader in digital innovation. According to Marwan Al Zarouni, CEO of AI at Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the city’s ‘lead by example’ approach has been instrumental in integrating AI across public services and regulatory systems. Speaking at the Care for Sustainability MENA event in Dubai, Al Zarouni emphasized the importance of appointing an AI officer in every government department to ensure alignment, ownership, and swift execution of AI initiatives. This unified vision has enabled Dubai to stay ahead of international competitors in the AI race. Dubai’s journey with AI began long before many other cities, with the UAE appointing the world’s first Minister of AI in 2017 and launching dedicated education programs as early as 2012. This early start allowed Dubai to build the necessary skills, structures, and regulations to support AI’s rapid evolution. Al Zarouni highlighted the D33 economic agenda, which aims to double Dubai’s GDP by 2033, with AI expected to contribute Dh100 billion annually. Additionally, Dubai is striving to become one of the top three global cities within the next decade, supported by initiatives like the Dubai 500 School, which fosters startups and investors through talent, capital, and mentorship. Policy development remains a cornerstone of Dubai’s innovation ecosystem, with frameworks like the Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) designed to provide legal clarity for businesses. Al Zarouni described Dubai’s approach as ‘intelligent infrastructure,’ focusing on agility, safety, and real-world outcomes. The city’s commitment to AI is not theoretical but practical, with AI deeply integrated into its operations. The event also showcased the commercial opportunities created by Dubai’s AI strategy. Alex Pavan, Founder and CEO of Emtribe, noted that the UAE’s focus on sustainability and digital transformation has made it an ideal location for AI-driven businesses. Emtribe’s platform, entirely built using AI, exemplifies the potential of Dubai’s AI ecosystem. Pavan emphasized the importance of automation and digitalization in achieving sustainability goals, particularly in decarbonization and energy optimization. Dubai’s leadership in AI and sustainability continues to attract global attention, solidifying its position as a hub for innovation and technological advancement.
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Woman killed in shark attack in Australia
A tragic shark attack at Crowdy Bay Beach in New South Wales, Australia, has resulted in the death of a young woman and left a man critically injured. The incident occurred early Thursday morning at the remote beach within Crowdy Bay National Park, approximately 300 kilometers north of Sydney. Authorities reported that the woman, believed to be in her 20s, succumbed to her injuries at the scene. The man, also in his 20s, sustained severe lacerations to his thigh and was airlifted to a hospital in Newcastle, where he remains in critical condition. Witnesses attempted to assist the victims before emergency services arrived. Following the attack, the beach was immediately closed, and experts from the Department of Primary Industries were consulted to identify the shark species involved. Surf Life Saving NSW announced that surrounding beaches would remain closed for 24 hours as drones monitored the area for safety. Steve Pearce, CEO of Surf Life Saving NSW, expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families and urged the public to avoid the water and heed lifeguards’ instructions. This marks the fifth fatal shark attack in Australia this year, with the most recent occurring less than three months ago on Sydney’s northern beaches. Further updates on this developing story are expected shortly.
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‘Who really likes turkey?’ – JD Vance serves Thanksgiving meals to soldiers
During a visit to Fort Campbell in Tennessee, US Vice-President JD Vance sparked a lighthearted debate about the traditional Thanksgiving meal while serving holiday dinners to military personnel. Vance, known for his candid remarks, humorously questioned the widespread appeal of turkey, a staple of the American Thanksgiving feast. His comments came as he engaged with troops, expressing gratitude for their service and dedication. The event highlighted the importance of connecting with service members during the holiday season, even as it playfully challenged long-standing culinary traditions. Vance’s visit underscored the administration’s commitment to supporting military families and fostering a sense of community during national celebrations.
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Basketball player, 20, dies after college game
The basketball community is mourning the tragic loss of Ethan Dietz, a 20-year-old forward from Connors State College in Warner, Oklahoma. Dietz sustained a severe head injury during a game against Grayson College in Denison, Texas, on Saturday. Despite being rushed to a local hospital, he succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday morning. Standing at 6 feet 8 inches (2.03 meters), Dietz was a key player for the Cowboys, starting the first eight games of the season with an impressive average of 11 points and 9.4 rebounds per game. Dietz, who hailed from Conway, Arkansas, was in his second year at Connors State College, where he was celebrated not only for his athletic prowess but also for his academic dedication and strong character. Bill Muse, the athletic director and head coach of the men’s basketball team, described Dietz as the epitome of a dedicated player and a great teammate. In response to this heartbreaking event, the college has canceled several basketball games and organized a campus vigil to honor Dietz’s life. Dr. Ron Ramming, the president of Connors State College, expressed the profound impact of Dietz’s loss, emphasizing his embodiment of the values of hard work and teamwork that define a true Cowboy.
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India strongly protests China’s detention of citizen at airport
India has lodged a formal protest with China following the detention of an Indian citizen at Shanghai Airport, describing the incident as ‘most unhelpful’ in fostering bilateral relations. The detained individual, Prema Wangjom Thongdok, a UK-based woman holding an Indian passport, was stopped by Chinese authorities during a layover on November 21. She was informed that her Indian passport was invalid due to her birth in Arunachal Pradesh, a region China claims as part of its territory under the name Zangnan. Thongdok was reportedly held for 18 hours and prevented from boarding her connecting flight to Japan. Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that such arbitrary actions violate international air travel conventions and hinder efforts to rebuild trust between the two nations. China defended its actions, stating they were conducted in compliance with its laws and regulations. The incident occurs amid cautious efforts by India and China to strengthen ties after years of strained relations, exacerbated by a 2020 border clash in the Himalayas that resulted in significant casualties. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to China in August marked a significant step toward normalization, with both leaders affirming their commitment to partnership over rivalry.
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Exhibition highlights connection between tech and humans
The International Cartoon and Illustration Exhibition on a Community with a Shared Future for Humanity (2025) is currently underway in Beijing, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between technology and human life. Featuring 101 artworks from 58 countries and regions, the exhibition presents diverse perspectives on how technological advancements are reshaping human destiny. Through innovative visual storytelling, the artists delve into themes such as the integration of technology into daily life, its impact on societal structures, and the ethical dilemmas it poses. The event serves as a platform for global dialogue, fostering a deeper understanding of the shared challenges and opportunities brought about by technological progress. By blending creativity with critical inquiry, the exhibition highlights the profound ways in which technology influences human existence, urging viewers to reflect on the future of humanity in an increasingly digital world.