The jihadi rebels who toppled Syrian President Bashar Assad say they want to build a unified, inclusive country. But after nearly 14 years of civil war, putting that ideal into practice will not be easy. For Syria’s Kurdish minority, America’s closest ally in the country, the struggle for a new order is entering a potentially even more challenging phase. Over the course of Syria’s civil war , Kurdish fighters have fended off an array of armed factions, partnered with the U.S. to rout the Islamic State group and carved out a largely autonomous region in the country’s oil-rich east. But the gains of the non-Arab Kurds are now at risk. The ascendance of the Sunni Arab rebels who overthrew Assad — with vital help from Turkey, a longtime foe of the Kurds — will make it hard for the Kurds to find a place in the new Syria and could prolong the conflict. The jihadi rebels who rode into Damascus over the weekend have made peaceful overtures to the Kurds. But the rebels violently drove Kurdish fighters out of the eastern city of Deir al-Zour days after government forces abandoned it. To the north, a separate opposition faction backed by Turkey that has been battling the Kurds for years seized the town of Manbij. And Turkey carried out airstrikes on a Kurdish convoy it said was carrying heavy weapons looted from government arsenals. The Kurds have long counted on U.S. aid in the face of such challenges. Around 900 American troops are in eastern Syria, where they partner with Kurdish forces to prevent an Islamic State resurgence . But the future of that mission will be thrown into doubt under president-elect Donald Trump, who has long been skeptical about U.S. involvement in Syria. Here's a closer look at the predicament the Kurds find themselves in. The Kurds are among the largest stateless ethnic groups in the world, with some 30 million concentrated in a territory straddling Turkey, Iran, Iraq and Syria. They are a minority in each country and have often suffered persecution, which has fueled armed Kurdish uprisings. In Syria, they carved out an autonomous enclave early in the civil war, never fully siding with the Assad government or the rebels seeking to topple him. When the Islamic State group seized a third of the country in 2014, Kurdish fighters — who are secular and include women in their ranks — proved their mettle in early battles against the extremists, earning support from the U.S.-led coalition. They formed a group known as the Syrian Democratic Forces, which also includes Arab fighters, and drove the Islamic State group out of large areas of Syria with help from U.S.-led airstrikes and American special forces. In 2017, these Kurdish-led forces captured Raqqa, the capital of the extremists' self-styled caliphate . Turkey has long viewed the SDF as an extension of the decades-old Kurdish insurgency within its own borders. It considers the main Kurdish faction a terrorist group on par with the Islamic State and has said it should have no presence in the new Syria. In recent years, Turkey has trained and funded fighters known as the Syrian National Army, helping them wrest control of territory from the Kurds in northern Syria along the border with Turkey. These Turkish-backed fighters have portrayed themselves as part of the opposition against Assad, but analysts say they are largely driven by opportunism and hatred of the Kurds . The Kurds have focused on battling the SNA in recent years. But the new leadership in Damascus, which also has longstanding ties to Turkey, could open another, much longer front. The main rebel faction is led by Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani , a former al-Qaida militant who cut ties with the group eight years ago and says he wants to build a new Syria free of dictatorship that will serve all its religious and ethnic communities. Nawaf Khalil, head of the Germany-based Center for Kurdish Studies, said the early signs were positive. He said the rebels steered clear of two SDF-controlled enclaves of Aleppo when they stormed the city two weeks ago at the start of their rapid advance across the country. “It is also positive that they did not speak negatively about the Syrian Democratic Forces," he said. It remains to be seen if those sentiments will endure. After sweeping into Deir al-Zour this week, a fighter from al-Sharaa's group posted a video saying they would soon advance toward Raqqa and other areas of eastern Syria, raising the possibility of further clashes with the Kurds. The rebels could still seek some kind of agreement with the Kurds to incorporate them into the post-Assad political order, but that would likely require accepting a degree of Kurdish autonomy in the east. It would also risk angering Turkey, which now appears to be the chief power broker in Syria. The top U.S. military commander for the Middle East, Army Gen. Erik Kurilla, met with SDF forces in Syria on Tuesday, in a sign of the Biden administration's commitment to the alliance post-Assad. But things could change on Jan. 20. Trump has provided few details about his Middle East policy, aside from saying he wants to end the region's wars and keep the United States out of them. In a social media post shortly before Assad was overthrown, Trump wrote that “Syria is a mess, but is not our friend, & THE UNITED STATES SHOULD HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT.” During his previous term, in 2019, Trump abandoned the Kurds ahead of a Turkish incursion, casting it as the fulfillment of a campaign promise to end U.S. involvement in the region's “endless wars.” The move prompted heavy criticism, including from prominent Republicans who accused him of betraying an ally. Trump backtracked weeks later, approving a wider mission to secure oil fields in the east. The troops remained where they were and the alliance endured. Associated Press writer Bassem Mroue in Beirut contributed. Follow the AP's Syria coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/syriaRunner's World: Top RBs take flight when Ravens entertain Eagles
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), the longtime progressive lawmaker who has twice sought the Democratic presidential nomination, suggested that the six-year Senate term he begins in January will likely be his last. His comments come after he won reelection in November and has spent decades pushing progressive politics into the national debate in areas such as economic inequality and health care access. He has served in Congress since 1991 and in the Senate since 2007. Sanders has long argued that Democratic leaders have failed to fully address the economic concerns of working-class Americans. “The average American is hurting,” he said in the Politico interview. “You’ve got to recognize the reality of what’s going on. And I’m not sure that enough Democrats are doing that.” Sanders frequently has pointed to what he views as a disconnect between the party’s rhetoric and the everyday struggles faced by his constituents. He has called upon Democrats to be more effective in championing issues including health care affordability and economic fairness. While his influence within the Senate’s Progressive Caucus remains notable—“Dozens of them are extreme progressives who share my perspectives,” he said—Sanders acknowledges that not everyone within that coalition fully embraces his vision. “Some do and some don’t,” he said, underscoring the ideological range that now exists in the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. Sanders, speaking of his priorities, pointed to stagnant wages, persistent income inequality, and high prescription drug costs as issues that resonate powerfully across racial and geographic lines. “We are the only major country on earth that doesn’t guarantee health care to all of its people,” he said in the interview, saying that the United States pays “the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs” and that his “vision is pretty clear as to where we have to go.” Sanders didn’t mince words in his post-election criticism of the party. He accused Democrats of “[abandoning] working-class people” and said that because of that, “the working class has abandoned them.” “I look forward to working with the Trump Administration on fulfilling his promise to cap credit card interest rates at 10 [percent],” the senator wrote in a Nov. 15 post on social media., the former LPGA professional turned social media sensation, continues to captivate her fans, this time with a conversation surrounding The Match, a high-profile celebrity golf event. Known for her engaging online presence and expertise in , has once again found herself at the center of a spirited Twitter discussion. The 10th edition of The Match, which kicked off on November 21, features an impressive lineup of participants, including . As the event unfolded, fans voiced their opinions on how to elevate the experience further, with one suggestion standing out: having take on a role in the event. "@PaigeSpiranac you should be calling The Match!!" a fan tweeted, tagging directly. In true fashion, Spiranac responded enthusiastically, writing, "Put me in coach I'm ready lol." 's response quickly gained traction, with her loyal followers expressing their excitement over the idea. Comments like "Lfg!" and "Record-breaking viewership!" highlighted the enthusiasm surrounding her potential involvement. Another fan remarked, "Call? S**t, she should be playing in it! I would actually watch it then!" Others suggested even more ambitious roles for , with one user calling her the "best coach ever" and another stating, "You'd definitely be in my starting lineup!" The conversation underscored the widespread belief that 's presence would bring a fresh and dynamic energy to the celebrity tournament. Spiranac's Unique Appeal Over the years, has carved out a unique niche in the world of golf, blending her expertise with a relatable and approachable style. Whether sharing tips, discussing industry trends, or showcasing her flair for fashion, she has become a prominent figure in the sport. Her involvement in The Match could potentially attract a broader audience to the event, offering something for both avid golf fans and casual viewers. Given her ability to connect with people on and off the course, could be the perfect addition to this star-studded competition. While it remains to be seen whether will step into a commentary or player role in future iterations of The Match, her fans have made one thing clear: her presence would undoubtedly enhance the event's appeal. As one supporter put it, "She's a game-changer, no matter the format."Stock market today: Wall Street gets back to climbing, and the Nasdaq tops 20,000
By A Correspondent In a gesture aimed at spreading holiday cheer, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has assumed the role of Santa Claus this December, donating over two tonnes of rice to 20 care homes in Bulawayo. The donation, delivered on Tuesday, was presented by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Judith Ncube, who handed over the goods on behalf of the President. Among the recipients were care homes such as Luveve School of Training, Percy Iboston, St. Francis, and Sandra Jones, with each institution receiving 100 kilograms of rice to support the elderly and children under their care. The beneficiaries expressed gratitude, acknowledging the timely assistance as essential for ensuring a joyful Christmas for those most vulnerable in society. One representative from a care home remarked, “The timely donation will go a long way in ensuring the elderly have a great Christmas.” While the donation was welcomed by its recipients, it is difficult to ignore the broader context within which this gesture takes place—one riddled with accusations of corruption, human rights violations, and political violence. Despite the festive spirit of the donation, the backdrop of Mnangagwa’s presidency is marked by a series of controversies that paint a far more complex picture. Corruption Allegations President Mnangagwa’s administration has faced numerous allegations of corruption that have eroded public trust. Critics claim that while the government continues to preach about national development and charitable efforts, it is often mired in financial mismanagement and the enrichment of the political elite. Allegations of embezzlement, fraudulent deals, and a lack of accountability in the handling of public funds remain persistent. The donation of rice, while seemingly benevolent, raises questions about whether such acts of charity are being used as a smokescreen for a regime often accused of enriching itself at the expense of the nation. The optics of this gesture, coming from a government tainted by corruption, cannot be separated from the wider context of public dissatisfaction with the ruling party’s priorities. Human Rights Violations and Political Repression Beyond financial misconduct, Mnangagwa’s government has been repeatedly accused of human rights abuses, particularly in its crackdown on dissent and opposition groups. The 2018 post-election violence and subsequent human rights violations have left a scar on the nation’s conscience, with international observers and human rights organizations condemning the actions of state security forces under his leadership. The government’s history of violently suppressing opposition protests and incarcerating political dissidents paints a stark contrast to the compassionate image it attempts to project with such donations. For many Zimbabweans, the rice given to the care homes is not enough to overshadow the human rights abuses and political repression that continue to shape their everyday lives. Violence and State Oppression Political violence remains a troubling feature of the Mnangagwa administration, particularly against those perceived as opponents to the ruling ZANU-PF party. Reports of intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and violence against peaceful protesters continue to emerge, casting a long shadow over any attempts at showcasing goodwill. The timing of Mnangagwa’s donation, just weeks before the festive season, also raises concerns about the political motives behind such gestures. Critics argue that this act of charity is less about genuine compassion and more about securing political favor, especially in light of the ongoing economic challenges and discontent within the population. A Controversial Christmas Gift While the donation of rice to care homes might be viewed by some as an admirable act of generosity, it remains overshadowed by the broader issues of governance that continue to plague Mnangagwa’s administration. Corruption, human rights violations, and political violence are not easily forgotten, especially when they persist despite claims of reform and development. For many, the “early Christmas present” from the President is not a cure for the deeper ailments afflicting Zimbabwe. Until the issues of corruption and political violence are addressed with real, meaningful change, such charitable acts will remain tainted by the dissonance between the government’s words and actions. In the end, the rice may feed a few, but it is unlikely to heal the divisions and deep-rooted grievances that continue to define Zimbabwe’s political landscape under Mnangagwa’s rule.Luigi Mangione may face an uphill legal battle as a suspect in the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson due to mounting evidence against him.
Eid Al Etihad: Dubai announces holidays for private schoolsNone
( ), a titan in the automotive parts industry, has seen a mix of ups and downs lately, but its story is far from over. As of writing, the stock is hovering around $62.64, a modest gain of 0.43% on the day, though still down significantly from its 52-week high of $79.98 set earlier this year. This puts Magna stock at an interesting crossroads. So, what can investors expect? Recent performance Magna stock has been weighed down by broader market uncertainty and industry challenges. Yet, it remains a giant with all the tools needed to stage a strong comeback. In its third-quarter earnings, Magna stock announced sales of $10.3 billion, a 4% year-over-year decline that admittedly raised some eyebrows. The company’s adjusted earnings per share of $1.28 fell short of analyst expectations of $1.40, and Magna lowered its full-year sales guidance slightly, now expecting revenue between $42.2 billion and $43.2 billion. The tempered outlook reflects ongoing headwinds like slowing vehicle production in certain markets and higher input costs. Yet, beneath the surface, Magna’s resilience shines through. Historically, Magna stock has been a powerhouse. Over the past five years, it remained a fixture on the Fortune Global 500 list, an accolade that speaks volumes about its global scale and influence. As one of the largest automotive suppliers in the world, Magna stock has its hands in nearly every corner of the car manufacturing process. From body exteriors to advanced driver-assistance systems. The company’s partnerships with major automakers solidified its position as an industry linchpin. Yes, the stock has struggled in recent months. Yet Magna stock has weathered storms before, and its track record suggests it knows how to navigate challenging terrain. What to watch Looking ahead, the future holds significant promise for Magna stock. The automotive industry is in the middle of a revolution driven by , advanced driver-assistance systems, and autonomous driving technologies. Magna stock has been investing heavily in cutting-edge technology, positioning itself as a leader in the future of mobility. Recent moves, like its acquisition of Veoneer’s Active Safety division, underscore this commitment. By strengthening its portfolio in safety and autonomous technologies, Magna stock aligns itself with where the industry is headed, not where it’s been. Financially, Magna stock is a fortress. With a market capitalization of around $17.9 billion at writing and a trailing price-to-earnings ratio of 11.69, the stock looks relatively undervalued compared to broader market benchmarks. What makes Magna stock particularly attractive to investors, though, is its dividend. The company currently offers a forward annual dividend yield of 4.27% at writing. This is not only generous but also sustainable, with a payout ratio hovering around 50%. For income-focused investors, Magna’s combination of reliable dividends and long-term potential makes it a particularly enticing option. While short-term volatility might scare some off, those with a long-term perspective can appreciate Magna stock’s solid financial footing. Plus, it has the ability to generate consistent cash flow even during challenging periods. Bottom line While recent earnings hiccups might cause some investors to feel hesitant, it’s important to view Magna stock in the context of the broader market and industry trends. The automotive sector as a whole has faced headwinds, including supply chain disruptions and rising costs. Yet those challenges are temporary. The underlying demand for vehicles, particularly electric and connected cars, is only growing. Magna stock’s ability to innovate and adapt puts it in a prime position to benefit from this demand as automakers increasingly rely on its expertise and technology. The next few years could see Magna emerge as an even bigger player in the global automotive supply chain. Ultimately, Magna International represents a blend of stability and future growth. Magna stock is an attractive pick for investors looking to ride the wave of automotive innovation while securing reliable income through dividends. Yes, the stock has had a rough patch, but its long-term prospects remain as strong as ever. In a world where the automotive industry is reinventing itself, Magna stock isn’t just keeping up. It’s leading the way. If you’re looking for a company with solid fundamentals, innovative leadership, and a clear vision for the future, buying Magna stock might just be the easiest decision you’ll make this year.Miami’s Dry Fest: A Premier Celebration of Non-Alcoholic Beverages and Party Vibes
WASHINGTON (AP) — Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said her agency will need to start taking “extraordinary measures,” or special accounting maneuvers intended to prevent the nation from hitting the debt ceiling , as early as January 14, in a letter sent to congressional leaders Friday afternoon. "Treasury expects to hit the statutory debt ceiling between January 14 and January 23," Yellen wrote in a letter addressed to House and Senate leadership, at which point extraordinary measures would be used to prevent the government from breaching the nation's debt ceiling — which has been suspended until Jan. 1, 2025. The department has in the past deployed what are known as “extraordinary measures” or accounting maneuvers to keep the government operating. But once those measures run out the government risks defaulting on its debt unless lawmakers and the president agree to lift the limit on the U.S. government’s ability to borrow. "I respectfully urge Congress to act to protect the full faith and credit of the United States," she said. The news comes after President Joe Biden signed a bill into law last week that averted a government shutdown but did not include President-elect Donald Trump’s core debt demand to raise or suspend the nation’s debt limit. The bill was approved by Congress only after fierce internal debate among Republicans over how to handle Trump's demand. “Anything else is a betrayal of our country,” Trump said in a statement. After a protracted debate in the summer of 2023 over how to fund the government, policymakers crafted the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which included suspending the nation's $31.4 trillion borrowing authority until Jan. 1, 2025. Notably however, Yellen said, on Jan. 2 the debt is projected to temporarily decrease due to a scheduled redemption of nonmarketable securities held by a federal trust fund associated with Medicare payments. As a result, “Treasury does not expect that it will be necessary to start taking extraordinary measures on January 2 to prevent the United States from defaulting on its obligations," she said. The federal debt currently stands at roughly $36 trillion — which ballooned across both Republican and Democratic administrations. And the spike in inflation after the coronavirus pandemic pushed up government borrowing costs such that debt service next year will exceed spending on national security. Republicans, who will have full control of the White House, House and Senate in the new year, have big plans to extend Trump's 2017 tax cuts and other priorities but debate over how to pay for them. Fatima Hussein, The Associated PressKroger Reiterates Its Commitment to Lower Prices and Initiates New $7.5B Share Buyback ProgramThe Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Katsina State has expressed concern over proposed 2025 budget for the health sector, saying it is inadequate. The Chairman of the coalition, Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdullahi, expressed the coalition’s worry in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Katsina. READ ALSO: Anambra police nab kidnapping suspects, rescue victims The state Governor, Dikko Radda, had on Nov. 25, presented a proposed budget of more than N682.2 billion for the 2025 fiscal year to the state’s House of Assembly. The budget breakdown indicates that education has the highest allocation of more than N95.9 billion, while Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has over N81.8 billion. However, the Ministry of Health has over N43.8 billion as proposed budget for the 2025 fiscal year, occupying 8.8 per cent of the budget. READ ALSO: Court nullifies NBC’s 2.5% annual gross income demand on MultiChoice Though the coalition commended the allocation for education, agriculture and other critical sectors, it noted that the health sector needed to be looked at again. Abdullahi said “with the rampant cases of different illnesses in the state and increasing need for healthcare services, the sector needs more funds to ensure serious attention for the citizens. “Health as one of the critical sectors of social protection which focuses mostly on the public, especially the vulnerable, deserves the highest allocation. READ ALSO: Bill for FCT Satellite Towns Development Commission passes second reading at Senate “We are, therefore, appealing to the state assembly to consider an upward review of the sector’s proposed budget during its scrutiny.” He stressed the need for more investments in social protection sectors, especially health, education, agriculture and other sectors.
The Cleveland Browns made a big move in the offseason to acquire wide receiver Jerry Jeudy from the Denver Broncos. Monday night, Jeudy will get his first chance to play against the team that drafted him in the first round a few years ago. Jeudy has a great chance to have a career-high in yardage this season and currently sits at 645 yards and two touchdowns. Ever since the Browns traded Amari Cooper to the Buffalo Bills, Jeudy has been able to take off. Recently, Jeudy made an interesting comment about how he is doing something now that he felt he always could. “I feel like I’ve been getting open my whole career,” Jeudy said . “Just sometimes you don’t get that much of an opportunity. Now I’m here and getting open and getting opportunities. So now it’s time to take advantage of them.” I love watching Jerry Jeudy after the catch with the #Browns . It's easy to see that he "wants it" more with Cleveland in almost every aspect of his play so far. #DawgPound #NFL pic.twitter.com/YbyFLV5Dll Jeudy has 3,053 receiving yards over four seasons with the Broncos after being a standout at Alabama. The best season as a pro for Jeudy came in 2022 when he caught 100 passes for 972 yards. Now, Jeudy has a legitimate chance to pass 1,000 yards this season. In the last four games, Jeudy has really come on with games of 142, 85, 79, and 73 yards receiving. With Jameis Winston throwing the ball, players like Jeudy and second-year wideout Cedric Tillman have really been able to flourish a bit. The Broncos thought Jeudy was expendable and not worth a second contract. Cleveland gave him that contract extension and it is starting to look like a good one. Don’t be surprised if Jeudy makes a play or two against the Broncos on Monday night. He will surely be looking too. It isn’t hard to think a player with the talent of Jeudy could have worked well with Broncos rookie QB Bo Nix. Now, the Browns have signed for the foreseeable future. This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.Wall Street hit by sell-off at end of holiday-shortened week
FBI Director Wray says he intends to resign before Trump takes office in January