Founded in 1846, the Associated Press (AP) is a global, independent news organization committed to factual reporting. AP delivers fast, accurate, and unbiased news across all media formats, serving as a crucial technology and service provider for the news industry. Its journalism reaches over half the world’s population daily, solidifying its position as a trusted source. The organization’s commitment to unbiased, factual reporting continues to distinguish it in the modern media landscape.
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The White House warned the incoming Trump administration of a heightened risk of Iran developing nuclear weapons, citing Iran’s weakened regional standing following military setbacks and the loss of key allies. This weakening, paradoxically, could drive Iran to accelerate its nuclear program as a defensive measure. Simultaneously, the Trump team is reportedly considering airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, a departure from previous US policy. This potential action, along with the Trump administration’s harder line on Iran, could embolden Israel to take similar action. The UN atomic regulator further underscored the urgency, noting Iran’s proximity to possessing nuclear weapons.
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On Saturday, eight Ukrainian drones attacked Kazan, Russia, targeting both civilian and military infrastructure between 7:40 a.m. and 9:20 a.m. local time. Russian air defenses intercepted three drones, but the attack resulted in fires at several residential buildings, though no casualties were reported. The assault prompted temporary restrictions at three airports and selective evacuations of some schools. While some drones targeted a key gunpowder plant, others struck civilian areas, causing outrage among local officials.
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A Stanford University study found that influenza A viruses can remain infectious in refrigerated raw milk for up to five days, highlighting a potential human health risk. This research, using an H1N1 strain, suggests raw milk is a viable transmission route for similar viruses, including the currently circulating H5N1 avian influenza affecting dairy cows. Pasteurization effectively eliminates the virus, emphasizing the importance of this process. The study’s findings underscore the dangers of raw milk consumption, particularly given the current H5N1 outbreaks and the persistence of raw milk’s popularity despite associated risks.
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At a recent rally, Donald Trump reiterated his controversial “Hannibal Lecter” immigration analogy, claiming it secured votes. He also vowed to investigate the purported rise in autism diagnoses, echoing debunked claims linking vaccines to the condition, alongside his nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Furthermore, Trump pledged to end policies supporting transgender rights, including banning transgender individuals from the military and schools. Finally, he dismissed concerns about Elon Musk’s influence, citing Musk’s ineligibility to run for president due to his birthplace.
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The House Ethics Committee will release its report on former Congressman Matt Gaetz on Monday, following a bipartisan vote. The report investigates numerous allegations against Gaetz, including sexual misconduct, drug use, and campaign finance violations. Gaetz denies wrongdoing, but the report’s findings could significantly impact his political future and public perception, especially given his planned media career and potential future roles in a Trump administration. The report’s release comes after a previous DOJ investigation concluded without charges and despite prior Republican efforts to block its public disclosure.
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President-elect Trump threatened to reclaim U.S. control of the Panama Canal, citing allegedly unfair fees charged by Panama and expressing concerns about potential Chinese influence, despite China’s lack of control over the canal’s administration. This assertion drew immediate condemnation from Panamanian President Mulino, who declared Panama’s sovereignty non-negotiable and defended the canal’s fee structure. Trump’s threat, unprecedented in its directness, marks a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy and lacks legal basis under international law. The Panama Canal, a crucial waterway for global trade, was transferred to Panamanian control in 1999 following agreements signed in 1977.
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House Republicans proposed a draft agreement including $2.5 trillion in mandatory spending cuts to raise the debt ceiling by $1.5 trillion. This plan, revealed in a closed-door meeting, targets programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, despite legal limitations on directly cutting Social Security through the proposed reconciliation process. Critics argue these cuts are intended to fund tax cuts for the wealthy, with the only way to meet the proposed spending reductions being drastic cuts to major social programs. The plan underscores concerns about prioritizing tax cuts for corporations and billionaires over vital social safety nets.
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Israel’s continued control of the Syrian buffer zone is contingent upon the establishment of a responsible Syrian government. Transfer of control is a possibility following the formation of such a government. Until that occurs, Israel maintains responsibility for securing its border. This approach prioritizes Israeli security while leaving open the possibility of future Syrian governance of the area. The message underscores Israel’s commitment to its security interests while acknowledging potential future changes.
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A Saudi doctor, identified by some outlets as Taleb A., is in custody for a Christmas market car attack in Magdeburg, Germany, that killed five and injured 200. Authorities received multiple tipoffs about the suspect in 2023, though these lacked specifics. The suspect, described as an ex-Muslim who supported the AfD party, had prior convictions for threats and was investigated for threatening acts. While not fitting typical extremist profiles, his actions are under investigation for potential murder and attempted murder charges.
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John Q. Hosedrinker