More than 19.5 mn Yemenis in need as crisis worsens: UN
United Nations (United States) (AFP) – More than 19.5 million people in Yemen will need assistance in 2025, a senior UN official said Wednesday, expressing concern over a worsening humanitarian crisis and for children suffering from malnutrition.
Quake
Sydney (AFP) – Voters in the Pacific nation of Vanuatu began casting ballots Thursday in a snap general election, a contest dismissed by some as a “distraction” while weary citizens rebuild from a deadly tremor last month.
Qatar, US announce Gaza truce, hostage release deal
Doha (AFP) – Qatar and the United States announced Wednesday a ceasefire and hostage-release deal between Israel and Hamas, adding that they hoped it would pave the way for a permanent end to the war in Gaza.
Joy mixed with fear for Israelis awaiting Gaza hostage release
Tel Aviv (AFP) – Israelis expressed both joy and apprehension at the announcement of a Gaza ceasefire and hostage exchange deal on Wednesday, fearing that not all those held captive would come home.
Galaxy sign Zanka from Anderlecht
Los Angeles (United States) (AFP) – MLS champions the Los Angeles Galaxy has signed Danish international defender Mathias Jorgensen from Anderlecht, the club said on Wednesday.
Police probe abuse of Havertz's wife after Arsenal star's woes
London (AFP) – Police have launched an investigation into social media abuse aimed at Arsenal forward Kai Havertz’s wife after his latest poor performance.
Drake files defamation suit against Universal over Kendrick Lamar track
New York (AFP) – Rapper Drake on Wednesday filed suit against his own label, saying Universal Music Group’s release and promotion of a Kendrick Lamar track dissing him amounted to defamation and harassment.
US firms concerned about Trump tariff, immigration plans: Fed
Washington (AFP) – US businesses across the country are concerned about the economic impact of President-elect Donald Trump’s proposals to raise tariffs and sharply curtail immigration, the Federal Reserve said Wednesday.
Yellen warns against extending Trump's first
Washington (AFP) – US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warned Wednesday that plans to extend President-elect Donald Trump’s 2017 tax cuts — which remained in place under Joe Biden but are set to expire — will add to unsustainable deficits.
Biden hails Gaza deal, says worked with Trump
Washington (AFP) – US President Joe Biden announced Wednesday a “full and complete” ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the first part of their peace accord, and said he had acted as “one team” with incoming leader Donald Trump.