** Fifth Storm in Philippines Bears Down, Thousands Evacuated Again
The Philippines is facing its fifth major storm in less than a month, with Tropical Storm Usagi expected to hit the country's largest island, Luzon. The national weather agency has issued warnings for heavy rainfall, severe wind, and possible storm surge inundation. Over 32,000 people were evacuated from vulnerable areas before the previous storm, Toraji, which caused limited damage but no reported deaths.
**
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/gallery/2024/11/12/fifth-storm-in-under-a-month-bears-down-on-the-philippines?traffic_source=rss
**Climate Crisis Drives Refugee Crisis, Warns UN**
The United Nations reports that climate hazards are contributing to a significant rise in global displacement, with 120 million people now affected. The number of forcibly displaced individuals has doubled over the past decade, with three-quarters living in countries heavily impacted by climate-related hazards.
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Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/11/12/refugees-on-front-lines-of-global-climate-crisis-warns-un?traffic_source=rss
Sectarian tensions persist in Pakistan's Kurram district, despite efforts to maintain peace. The region has been plagued by violence since a land dispute between Shia and Sunni tribes sparked clashes, resulting in dozens of deaths. Authorities have imposed travel restrictions and boosted security, but the situation remains volatile. Local leaders are working towards reconciliation, but concerns remain about the government's commitment to resolving the issue.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/11/12/why-sectarian-tensions-continue-to-simmer-in-pakistans-kurram-district?traffic_source=rss
Shell wins appeal against Dutch court ruling on carbon emissions, citing lack of international consensus on required reductions. The Hague appeals court has overturned a 2021 decision requiring the oil giant to cut its CO2 emissions by 45%. Environmental groups can now take their case to the Supreme Court.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx240l9xq2yo
** Incident on Spirit Airlines Flight Approaching Port-au-Prince, Haiti Leads to Airport Closure and Suspension of Commercial Flights
A Spirit Airlines flight from the United States was diverted to the Dominican Republic after coming under gunfire while approaching Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The incident has led to the closure of Port-au-Prince's international airport and the suspension of commercial flights by Spirit and American Airlines.
**
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/11/11/gunfire-hits-spirit-airlines-flight-approaching-port-au-prince-haiti?traffic_source=rss
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has announced an external investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan. The investigation follows media reports and a request by Mr. Khan for an internal probe. He denies the allegations and will continue in his role while the investigation is ongoing.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0j8dq235e2o
** US Climate Envoy Speaks Out on Election Results and Commitment to Climate Action
US climate envoy John Podesta expressed disappointment over last week's election results, but emphasized that the work to combat global warming will continue despite potential setbacks. At the UN climate summit in Azerbaijan, Podesta praised President-elect Joe Biden's commitment to rejoining the Paris agreement and noted that Trump's administration may try to slow down climate action.
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Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/cop29-us-climate-envoy-calls-elections-bitterly-disappointing-says-work-will-go-on-despite-trumps-return-775343
US President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik as the new US ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik, a staunch supporter of Israel and critic of the UN's handling of Hamas, would replace Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield if confirmed by the Senate. Stefanik's appointment comes amidst controversy over her limited foreign policy experience.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3vlndv0yxpo
** COP29 conference begins with concerns about climate change impact under new US administration, despite ongoing efforts from states and cities to reduce emissions. World leaders discuss financing for developing nations to achieve 1.5C temperature threshold.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c20nep2rw22o
"BREAKING: Italian authorities have busted a major European forgery ring, seizing over 2,100 fake artworks attributed to artists like Banksy, Andy Warhol, and Pablo Picasso. Thirty-eight people were arrested, facing charges related to conspiracy, forgery, and sale of stolen goods. This operation is considered one of the biggest acts of protection for Banksy's estate."
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg4mn4k1yro
Tensions between Russia and Ukraine remain high, with reports of a denied Trump-Putin call on restraint in Ukraine. The Kremlin has dismissed claims that US President-elect Donald Trump urged Vladimir Putin against escalating the war, while Ukraine's leader Volodymyr Zelensky seeks stronger global support to counter Russian aggression.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy4g0vg8gdqo
Hezbollah's Rocket Attack on Israel's Haifa Bay Area: Multiple Perspectives and Context
On November 11, Hezbollah launched over 90 rockets at the Galilee and Haifa Bay area in Israel, resulting in four injuries and damage to homes and vehicles. This attack comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Lebanon-based Hezbollah. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) reported that most of the rockets were intercepted by air defences, while a few struck inside towns.
Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-launches-over-90-rockets-at-israels-haifa-bay-area-four-injured-vehicles-and-homes-damaged-775317
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Russia's Basmanny District Court has ordered the arrest in absentia of International Criminal Court (ICC) Judge Haykel Ben Mahfoudh. This move comes after Mahfoudh and two other ICC judges issued arrest warrants for Russian military leaders over alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Russia does not recognize the ICC's jurisdiction.
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Source: https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2024/11/11/russia-arrests-icc-judge-mahfoudh-in-absentia-mediazona-a86983
** Russia Faces Wave of Bankruptcies as Borrowing Costs Skyrocket
The Russian economy is bracing for a potential wave of bankruptcies, with borrowing costs soaring and companies struggling to refinance debts. The Central Bank's aggressive interest rate hikes have led to a surge in borrowing costs, making it increasingly difficult for businesses to stay afloat.
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Source: https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2024/11/11/russia-faces-a-wave-of-bankruptcies-as-borrowing-costs-skyrocket-a86981
Taiwan investigators have cleared Taiwanese individuals and firms of involvement in deadly Lebanon device blasts. The investigation found no evidence of nationals or domestic companies participating in the September attack targeting Hezbollah communications devices. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office previously confirmed Israel's role in the operation.
Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-individuals-or-firms-not-involved-in-lebanon-device-blasts-closes-case-775281
Russia has blocked screenings of a new Trump biopic, "The Apprentice," after its local distributor failed to receive a screening license from authorities. The film, which depicts Trump as a young man under the mentorship of Roy Cohn, had previously stirred controversy over a scene showing Trump raping his first wife Ivana.
Source: https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2024/11/11/russia-blocks-screenings-of-new-trump-biopic-a86978
Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth acknowledges his coalition's defeat in parliamentary election. Final results are pending, but opposition leader Navin Ramgoolam's party appears set to take power.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5y3pg0ey99o
US President-elect Donald Trump has appointed two key officials ahead of his return to the White House in January. Tom Homan, a former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), will serve as Trump's "border tsar," overseeing border security and deportation policy. Elise Stefanik, a New York Congresswoman, has been nominated as ambassador to the United Nations. Their appointments come amid speculation about Trump's administration and control of the US Congress.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c079m9mxx1no
** Russia Prepares for Mass Government Layoffs Amid Digitization Efforts and Salary Increases
Russias government plans to resume mass layoffs of public sector employees next year, with around 400,000 people at risk of losing their jobs. The move aims to free up funding for remaining employees' higher salaries. President Vladimir Putin signed a decree last month ordering territorial branches of federal agencies to cut staff by 10% no later than July 1, 2025.
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Source: https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2024/11/11/russia-preparing-mass-government-layoff-a86976
** Chinese Retail Chain Uses Real Women on Treadmill as Live Mannequins in Mall Showroom
The ITIB clothing store in China has implemented an unusual marketing tactic, featuring real women walking on treadmills while modeling clothes. This approach aims to demonstrate how garments fit and move on a person, potentially improving customer experience. The practice has garnered over 5 million views on social media, sparking mixed reactions.
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Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/real-women-mannequins-walk-on-treadmill-to-model-clothes-in-china-mall-775230
** Thousands of cyclists bring traffic gridlock in China after viral social media trend goes awry. A night ride from Zhengzhou to Kaifeng for breakfast dumplings turned into chaos, with roads overwhelmed and authorities intervening.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn8lxly6xd1o
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US Presidential-elect Donald Trump has criticized Democrats for involving two "losers" in their campaign, specifically mentioning former US Representative Liz Cheney and her father Dick Cheney. Trump claimed that bringing "losers" into a political campaign is not a good idea, sparking controversy. This comes after previous heated exchanges between Trump and Kamala Harris, who condemned his "violent rhetoric". The broader implications of such statements on the US political landscape remain to be seen.
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Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-dems-made-a-big-mistake-by-involving-2-losers-in-their-campaign-775215
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz plans to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin about ending the war in Ukraine, aiming for a "return to peace in Europe". This announcement comes after reports of US President-elect Donald Trump's phone call with Putin, urging him not to escalate the conflict. The development has sparked renewed hopes for diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.
Source: https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2024/11/11/germanys-scholz-says-he-plans-to-speak-with-putin-about-ukraine-war-soon-a86975
US President-elect Donald Trump is seeking to bypass Senate confirmation for key appointments using "recess appointments". This move aims to sidestep Democratic opposition and maintain momentum for his administration. However, the Senate typically holds power to approve presidential appointments, and some Republican senators are showing varying levels of support for this approach.
Source: https://www.wionews.com/node/775130
** Russia's FSB claims to have foiled a Ukrainian plot to divert a military helicopter, citing alleged attempts by Ukrainian intelligence officers to recruit a Russian pilot. The incident is said to have occurred in an unspecified location, with authorities claiming that the operation allowed for subsequent strikes on Ukrainian positions.
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Source: https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2024/11/11/russias-fsb-says-it-foiled-ukrainian-helicopter-plot-a86974
China is set to unveil a new stealth fighter jet and attack drones at the Airshow China in Zhuhai, showcasing its military aviation capabilities. The J-35A, described as a "medium-sized stealth multi-purpose fighter", will be on display alongside the HQ-19 surface-to-air missile system and various drone models, including the SS-UAV mothership capable of releasing swarms of smaller drones for intelligence gathering or strikes.
The event comes as China continues to modernize its military capabilities amidst regional tensions with the US and others. The appearance of the J-35A has sparked interest among analysts, who see it as a possible indication of its entry into service.
Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/china-set-to-reveal-new-stealth-fighter-jet-and-attack-drones-at-zhuhai-airshow-775185
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Federal Reserve President Neel Kashkari has expressed concerns that President-elect Donald Trump's proposed tariffs could lead to inflation if global trade partners retaliate. Speaking on CBS' "Face the Nation", Kashkari noted that one-time tariffs may not have a significant long-term impact, but escalating tit-for-tat tariffs could worsen inflation. This comes as Trump plans to impose universal tariffs on all imports from countries, with a 60% rate specifically targeted at China.
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Source: https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trump-tariffs-could-spark-inflation-if-global-trade-responds-says-kashkari-775189
India's cricket coach Gautam Gambhir has expressed confidence in skipper Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli, despite their recent poor form. Gambhir believes the duo are "incredibly tough men" who will bounce back in Australia during a five-match Test series. The team is looking to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, but faces a challenge with quicker pitches and a depleted batting lineup.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2024/11/11/gambhir-unconcerned-by-indias-wtc-final-scenarios-backs-rohit-and-kohli?traffic_source=rss
** Netanyahu Snubbed by Jewish Federation in US Amidst Growing Discontent
The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) has denied an invitation to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address their annual conference in Washington DC, a first in many years. Instead, President Isaac Herzog will represent Israel at the event. The snub comes amidst growing discontent with Netanyahu's policies among American Jews, who have shown increasing discomfort with actions taken by his government.
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Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-not-invited-to-largest-annual-gathering-of-north-american-jewish-leaders-in-us-775182
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will attend Armistice Day events in Paris, meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss European security and the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The two leaders will also address concerns about US support for Ukraine under a potential second Trump presidency.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce8dz0n8xldo
** Sri Lanka's President Dissanayake Vows to Return State-Grabbed Lands to War-Affected Areas
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has pledged to return land currently controlled by state agencies in war-affected areas of Sri Lanka. Speaking at a rally, he acknowledged past shortcomings in connecting with Tamil voters and promised to work harder to earn their trust.
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Source: https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-president-dissanayake-pledges-to-return-state-grabbed-lands-to-tamils-775158
Russia-Ukraine conflict continues into day 990, with ongoing fighting and diplomatic efforts. Key developments on November 11 include:
* Reports of intense shelling in eastern Ukraine
* Ukrainian officials confirm new troop movements near the border
* International community maintains calls for a peaceful resolution
* Humanitarian aid deliveries continue to affected areas
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/11/11/russia-ukraine-war-list-of-key-events-day-990?traffic_source=rss
US President-elect Donald Trump has demanded that Republican senators allow him to bypass the Senate confirmation process for key appointments through 'recess appointments'. This move aims to sidestep Democratic opposition and maintain momentum for his administration. The US Constitution allows presidents to make recess appointments during extended Senate recesses. However, this provision is typically used by the Senate to avoid prolonged recesses and protect its influence over nominations.
Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-seeks-to-bypass-senate-confirmation-process-with-recess-appointments-heres-what-it-means-775130
**Ukraine and Russia Engage in Largest Drone Attacks Since War Began**
Exhibition of military capabilities on both sides amid hopes for US-mediated peace efforts.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx28jd0114ro
** US President-elect Trump Warns Russia on Ukraine Conflict Amid Rising Tensions
US President-elect Donald Trump has urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to de-escalate the conflict in Ukraine, citing Washington's military presence in Europe. Despite this call, Russia and Ukraine have exchanged record numbers of drone strikes. The international community remains concerned about the escalating tensions.
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Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-trump-warns-putin-russia-ukraine-war-updates-and-more-775094
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"A unique phenomenon in India's Mizoram state has been linked to famines every 50 years, according to a Forbes report. The blooming of the Melocanna baccifera bamboo species triggers an infestation by black rats (Rattus rattus), which destroys crops and leads to food shortages. This cyclical event, called "mautam", has been recorded in the state since 1911. Researchers suggest that the massive rat population is attracted to the nutrient-rich seeds produced during the blooming stage, leading to agricultural crises."
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Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/this-flower-blooms-every-50-years-and-triggers-famine-in-one-indian-state-775089
** Bitcoin Surges to New High, Market Confidence Soars
Bitcoin has reached an all-time high near $81,000, driven by investor confidence and the recent US elections. Open interest in bitcoin's price surpassing $90,000 rose to over $2.8 billion on Deribit derivatives exchange. The market surge coincides with the easing of monetary policy and a wave of pro-crypto candidates securing office.
**
Source: https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bitcoin-hits-all-time-high-with-28-billion-riding-on-it-reaching-90000-775071
China's consumer prices rose at a slower pace in October, with an increase of 0.3% from last year, marking the lowest growth rate in four months. The country's producer price deflation deepened, with a decline of 2.9% from last year. Despite stimulus measures, analysts say the package will do little to boost economic activity and prices in the near term.
Source: https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/china-consumer-prices-rise-slowest-in-4-months-despite-stimulus-775061
** Haiti's Transitional Council Removes Prime Minister Amid Ongoing Political Turmoil
Haiti's transitional council has signed a decree removing interim Prime Minister Garry Conille, sparking further instability in the Caribbean nation. The move comes amidst deepening political turmoil and infighting within the council itself. While some argue that the council has the authority to make such decisions, others claim it is unconstitutional, as only the Haitian Parliament or democratically elected leaders should have this power.
**
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/11/10/haitis-transitional-council-moves-to-replace-pm-in-contentious-move?traffic_source=rss
US President-elect Donald Trump reportedly advised Russian President Vladimir Putin against escalating the war in Ukraine during their first phone conversation after Trump's election victory. The call was said to have taken place at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence, with Trump reminding Putin of Washington's military presence in Europe and expressing interest in follow-up conversations to discuss a resolution to the conflict.
Source: https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2024/11/10/trump-told-putin-not-to-escalate-ukraine-war-in-post-election-call-washington-post-a86973
Mattel's Wicked dolls packaging mistake lists adult website instead of movie link, sparking social media reactions. The error has been spotted by fans who purchased the singing dolls inspired by the musical and upcoming movie. Mattel recommends the dolls for children aged four and above.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gz91pp5llo
Trump considers several candidates for key cabinet roles, including trade representative and interior department head. Potential appointees have varying backgrounds in finance, politics, and public policy.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx24gze60yzo
**Canadian Authorities Arrest Khalistani Terrorist**
The Canadian Police have apprehended Arshdeep Singh, a close associate of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a slain Khalistani terrorist. The arrest comes after a shootout in Canada on October 27-28. Singh is accused of various crimes, including murder, target killings, and extortion.
**Background:**
Hardeep Singh Nijjar was killed in Canada last year, sparking diplomatic tensions between India and Canada. Indian authorities had named several individuals as suspects in connection with his death.
**Multiple Perspectives:** This incident highlights the complexities of cross-border terrorism and the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in addressing these issues.
Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-police-arrest-khalistani-terrorist-arsh-dalla-close-aide-of-nijjar-775020
Notes by isphere_world | export