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NoneA library of Agentforce agents is coming to Slack workspaces for some customers in January, as Slack continues its AI and automation push. Slack is adding a new way to access AI agents created on parent company Salesforce’s Agentforce platform, with a library of options available in the collaboration app. Agentforce, which launched in October, is a tool to build AI agents that answer questions and automate tasks for users. Slack has already begun to integrate these Agentforce agents into its app as chatbots available in Slack channels, alongside a range of third-party agents from the likes of Adobe Express, Box, Perplexity and others. On Tuesday, the company announced that a new Agentforce “hub” is coming to Slack workspaces to help users find the relevant agent to assist with a task. Accessed as a tab on the left-hand sidebar, it provides a list of available and recommended agents that users can browse. “From there, you can activate your chosen agent and begin a conversation,” the Slack team said in a blog post. Agents are tailored to a variety of use cases; deal assistance, IT help, onboarding, and marketing strategy are some examples Slack detailed. As well as pre-built agents, customers will be able to host their own customized agents in the Agentforce hub. Slack also announced the general availability of Slack “actions” that can be added to agent workflows created in the Agentforce Agent Builder tool. This means agents can be prepped to perform tasks such as creating and updating Slack canvas documents, generating Slack lists, and sending direct messages to colleagues. “Actions” in Agent Builder allow Slack users to customize AI agents. Slack Agentforce agents will also be able to search for information across Slack conversations and connected applications, helping the agent chatbots provide more accurate answers. The three sets of features will be generally available in January to customers with both an Agentforce license and a paid Slack license. Details on the consumption-based pricing model for Agentforce agents in Slack is “coming soon,” a spokesperson said. AI agents have become a major focus for software vendors in recent months, including Asana, Atlassian, Microsoft, and others. Last week, Google announced a variety of agent-related tools, including a new Agentspace application and a revamped NotebookLM AI assistant for customers of its Workspace app suite. The “agent” concept is used in different ways by different companies; it generally refers to software systems that can take actions on behalf of a user, with varying degrees of autonomy. IDC analysts predict that at least 40% of Global 2000 businesses will use AI agents and agentic workflows to automate knowledge work, doubling productivity in the process — at least in cases where the technology is successfully implemented.
Kim Kardashian’s latest lingerie line is upsetting a number of evangelicals — but not for the exact reasons you may think. In a number of Instagram posts to her nearly-360 million followers, showed off some new underwear courtesy of a team-up between her own apparel company, SKIMS, and luxury fashion brand Dolce & Gabbana. While the scantily clad photos swiftly drew ire from certain parts of social media, it’s what Kardashian wearing, versus what she wasn’t, that had the internet aghast. (The Western Journal will not link to those posts, for obvious reasons.) In one of these racy Instagram posts showing the bra and underwear combinations on offer, was seen showing off a white bra and white mesh underwear ... while wearing a rosary. That small- yet-meaningful accessory choice sparked all manner of fury online, according to . The news outlet collected just some of the comments under the controversial post, and none were too pleased with what Kardashian was offering. “Why is she always wearing the cross when she’s half naked?” one Instagram user mused. “Wearing a cross while being half naked. [Would you] make a mockery out of other religions too?” another Instagram user challenged. “The Holy Rosary is NOT a fashion accessory,” one comment pointed out, with another adding, “Nothing about you is holy take the rosaries off lol.” Sentiment wasn’t much better on social media platform X. seems sacrilegious to this Senior Catholic — Ginger Thomas (@purpgingybread) “Seems sacrilegious to this Senior Catholic,” one X user commented under Fox’s post. Others on X lambasted the advertising campaign as “ .” Adding to the brewing culture war, a fair number of comments under Kardashian’s posts were complimentary of the 44-year-old celebrity. This all being said, if Kardashian is one of the celebrities who truly believes that there’s , she would likely consider her racy ad campaign to be a huge success. And that’s because it wasn’t just Fox News reporting on the backlash to her lingerie campaign. From conservative news site to celebrity gossip site to even sports site , many major outlets appeared to have some thoughts on Kardashian’s lingerie + rosary combination. It appears that the rosary that Kardashian is wearing is , and sold by Dolce & Gabbana for $525. We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Advertise with The Western Journal and reach millions of highly engaged readers, while supporting our work. .
Nigerian Afrobeats singer, David Adeleke, better known as has come under heavy criticism after he advised black Americans against relocating to Nigeria. Sunday Telegraph had earlier reported that Davido while featuring on The Big Homies House podcast urged the black Americans, particularly Nigerians not to return home, due to the country’s economic crisis. The singer made this known following speculations that some black Americans were considering leaving the United States (US) following the electoral victory of Donald Trump. According to reports, Africans in America are concerned about potential policies of Trump that may not favour them. Addressing the speculation, Davido said, “It is not cool back home. The economy is in shambles”. Following his comment, many political gladiators have asked the singer to immediately retract his statement. A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Joe Igbokwe in a post on his official Facebook page advised the singer to retract his comment with immediate effect. Igbokwe said, “My In-law Davido has made me sad by telling the world in America that Nigeria’s economy is in shambles. “This is very sad. I will advise him to retract the statement asap. Nigeria made Davido. QED!!!” Similarly, Bashir Ahmed, a former aide to Nigerian former President, Mohammadu Buhari said the remark was disappointing. In a post on his official X handle, Bashir said, “Selling out your country from foreign soil is so disappointing and unpatriotic. Public figures like Davido should know that. “They should act and be seen as good ambassadors for Nigeria wherever they find themselves. @NOA_Nigeria”! A political analyst, Reno Omokri has reacted to Davido’s recent comment on Nigeria’s economy, urging the singer to retract his statement. Reno Omokri said: “Is Nigeria’s ‘Economy In Shambles’ As Singer, Davido, Claimed? “I beg to disagree with singer Davido that Nigeria’s ‘economy is in shambles’. If our economy is in shambles, how was it possible for Wizkid’s album, Morayo, to record 12.12 million streams on its inaugural day of release on Spotify Nigeria, which made the album the biggest-selling album on a streaming platform in Nigeria’s history for the first day. “Please fact-check me: Streaming music is purchased with disposable income. People do not have disposable income in an economy in shambles, not to mention breaking streaming records, especially on Spotify, where the average streaming cost is $10.99 monthly. “How many singers have broken streaming records in Venezuela or Argentina? Those are economies that could be said to be in shambles, not Nigeria. “Perhaps if Davido had built a track record of showing more commitment to Nigeria, he, like Wizkid, would have broken streaming records on Spotify Nigeria. “I urge Davido to learn from Rihanna, who never talks down on her country and instead uses her celebrity to promote Barbados and project her positively to the world. “Which is why Rihanna was named a national hero and cultural ambassador for Barbados in 2018. “David Adeleke displayed ignorance and a lack of patriotism with that statement. It is rather disappointing for a young man whose uncle is a governor and should, therefore, know better. “Even worse, he said that to a foreign audience in a foreign country. Davido may have US citizenship, but that does not mean he should de-market Nigeria. “And it may be that his personal experience in Osun State has made Davido take such a position. “After all, Osun State, under the dancing Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, was one of the last states to increase their minimum wage to match up with the Federal Government’s new minimum wage, despite receiving 65% more federal allocation under the Tinubu government. “If that is the case, then Davido may want to specify that Osun’s local economy is in shambles, not Nigeria’s.”
N.C. State defensive coordinator Tony Gibson was named head coach at Marshall on Sunday, shortly after Thundering Herd coach Charles Huff's hiring was announced at Southern Miss. Gibson, 52, will take his first head-coaching job in college and return to his home state, where he served two stints at West Virginia over the past two decades. The terms of Gibson's deal were not immediately disclosed. “We could not be happier to welcome Tony Gibson home as our 32nd head coach at Marshall University,” school President Brad Smith said in a statement. “Coach Gibson has led some of the top programs on the national level, but in the end, his heart desired to return to the mountains from which he came." Gibson's hiring was announced less than an hour after Huff was named coach at Southern Miss. Huff coached Marshall to a 31-3 victory over Louisiana-Lafayette in the Sun Belt championship game on Saturday night. Marshall (10-3) won seven straight games for its first 10-win season since 2015. Gibson coached defensive backs at West Virginia under Rich Rodriguez from 2001 to 2007. He returned in 2013 under Dana Holgorsen as safeties coach, then became defensive coordinator a year later and stayed until Holgorsen left at the end of the 2018 season. Gibson spent six seasons at N.C. State. He had other assistant coaching stints at Pitt and under Rodriguez at Michigan and Arizona. N.C. State’s defense ranked near the bottom of the ACC this season, allowing 30.5 points and 385 yards per game. The Wolfpack’s best season under Gibson was in 2022, when it tied with Louisville for the fewest points allowed at 19.2 per game and was second in yards allowed at 327. “My family and I are excited to start this journey, but we all thank you for your support and the wonderful memories,” Gibson wrote to the N.C. State community in a post Sunday on the social media platform X. Gibson, who is from Van, West Virginia, graduated in 1994 from Glenville State, where he played defensive back. “We have recruited a proven coach that aspires to be at Marshall and to sustain the success we have come to appreciate and expect,” athletic director Christian Spears said in the statement. "We can’t wait to get started with him and his staff.” Marshall associate head coach Telly Lockette will serve as interim coach in the Independence Bowl against No. 19 Army (11-1) on Dec. 28 in Shreveport, Louisiana. One of Gibson’s first tasks will be replenishing Marshall’s roster. The Thundering Herd signed only 11 recruits in the recent early signing period. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-footballWarren Buffett gives away another $1.1B and plans for distributing his $147B fortune after his deathPHILANTHROPIST Julia Rausing, who died earlier this year, left an eye-watering £58 million in her will. Julia, who died of cancer aged 63 in April, was the wife of Swedish food packaging titan Hans Kristian Rausing . 2 Industrialist Hans Rausing and wife Julia attend a party in 2016 Credit: Getty - Contributor 2 Julia died in April from the effects of cocaine damage to her heart Credit: Reuters A trust set up in her name after she died has pledged to donate £100 million to UK charities in the next year, including £10 million to the Royal Opera House , £5 million to The National Gallery and £1 million to Gloucester Cathedral. Figures from the probate office show she left a gross estate of £58,815,688 reduced to £58,518,112 after her bills were paid. In her will, made a month before her death, she asked to be buried in the church at Lasborough, Gloucestershire, wearing her wedding ring, and left her two nieces and nephew, and great nieces and great nephews, £250,000 each. She left £30,000 each to her five god-children. Read more on UK news RECKLESS Horror vid shows how teen driver used phone 9 times before he left mum paralysed BRAZEN THIEVES How ‘Morrisons 4’ shoplifters unravelled £120k international smuggling ring She left the rest of her estate to Hans, whom she met in 2002 when she was a senior director at auction house Christie’s . In a heartbreaking tribute, Hans, heir to Tetra Pak, said: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of my beloved wife Julia after an extended illness. “Julia dedicated her life to her family and charitable causes, and she will be missed by all who knew her. “She leaves behind an extraordinary legacy across many charities which we will continue in her name.” Most read in The Sun 'NO PATIENCE' Propper brands Rangers' opponents long ball merchants and calls out own fans BALLSED UP Lorraine apologises on air for using phrase she 'didn't know' was a swear word HO HO NO! ‘Rip off’ ride at popular Scots Christmas market slammed by furious parents a&e dash Hollyoaks star Ali Bastian rushed to hospital after heartbreaking cancer diagnosis The couple donated £330million in more than 1,000 grants through the Julia and Hans Rausing Trust which they co-founded in 2014. Their philanthropy included £50million to UK charities. Their charity extended across the health and well-being, welfare and education plus the arts and culture sectors. Julia worked at Christie’s auctioneers before she met Hans. She is survived by her husband, four stepchildren, her sister Lavinia Verney and mother Lady Helen Delves Broughton. One friend told The Independent: “They were palpably in love and affectionate towards each other and were a very touching couple who focused most of their time on how to give away money to those in need. “They were also discreetly social while she also for many years had to battle cancer. “Without a doubt, she was responsible for bringing Hans back from appalling grief and helping him find joy in life again.” Hans’s first wife Eva, mother to his four kids, was found dead wrapped in bedding at the couple’s squalid Belgravia flat in July 2012. He had hidden her body for two months before being charged with delaying her burial and sentenced to ten months’ in prison. A coroner ruled Eva died around May 7 from the effects of cocaine on a damaged heart. Read more on the Scottish Sun 'DISAPPOINTED' Harry Potter steam train blasted by passengers who 'dreaded' return journey COLD BEERS SPFL side spotted going for a PINT after their bus got stuck in the snow At the time she was one of the richest women in Britain. Professor Hans Rausing, Hans’s father, died aged 93 in August 2019.
Ange Postecoglou has insisted he's 'determined get it right' at Tottenham after confronting the angry travelling supporters in Bournemouth. Spurs suffered a 1-0 defeat to the Cherries on Thursday night, with teenager Dean Huijsen bagging what went on to be the winner early in the first half. The away end let their feelings known at the final whistle, with a number booing their side off the pitch. Postecoglou, who came over to show his gratitude to the supporters, was also booed. He was seen approaching the away end, with the Australian expressing himself with his hands as he reacted to the criticism. Two stewards stood in the way of him and the crowd, with one extending their arm out. Footage shows Djed Spence putting his arm on Postecoglou's back as he turned away and towards the tunnel. Asked about the reception from the fans and the booing, he told talkSPORT: "Yeah, well rightly so. "They're disappointed and I got some pretty direct feedback, which is always healthy mate." In his post-match press conference, he continued: "I didn’t like what was being said because I’m a human being but you’ve for to cop it. "I’ve been around long enough to know when things don’t go well you’ve got to understand the frustration and disappointment. And they’re rightly disappointed because we let a game of football get away from us. But that’s OK. I’m OK with all that. "All I can say is I’m really disappointed and I’m determined to get it right and will keep fighting until we do." Bournemouth had the better chances on the night, with Spurs, in truth, lucky to escape with conceding just one goal. The Cherries managed 21 shots. Addressing the number of chances his side gave up in the clash, Postecoglou said: "Yeah well that's because we were chasing the game. "When you go a goal down, in the second half you're on the up and up and chase the game. "That's going to give them space and that's what they want and what they're good at, so." Bournemouth have jumped above Tottenham in the table after claiming all three points. The Cherries sit in ninth, one point above tenth place Spurs. And the north London side's 4-0 thumping of reigning Premier League champions Manchester City last month now feels like a distant memory. talkSPORT's resident Spurs fan, Jamie O'Hara, said on the Sports Bar: “It's hard work you know, watching Spurs. One minute you're up, then you're down, then you're up, then you're down. "And you know what? It's just, it's painful. We are painful to watch. Painful. Because you know there's a big performance in there because we've seen it. "Aston Villa. Man City. You go away from home, you get beat by Bournemouth. "I know everyone loves Ange, you know, in terms of like the attacking football. I can't, I'm getting bored of watching this."On November 20, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and Department of Justice (“DOJ”) announced parallel charges against Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, his nephew Sagar Adani, business associate Cyril Cabanes of Azure Power Global Ltd, and other senior business executives in connection with an alleged $250 million bribery scheme in violation of U.S. securities laws and the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”). The Adanis, executives of Adani Green Energy Ltd., an Indian renewable-energy company, were charged with conspiracies to commit securities and wire fraud to obtain funds from U.S. investors and global financial institutions through false statements involving one of the world’s largest solar energy projects. The charges against the Adanis and their associates underscore the transnational reach of U.S. securities laws and the FCPA. Under the SEC Whistleblower Program, individuals from across the globe can anonymously report securities fraud and FCPA violations and may qualify for monetary awards. Adani Indictment: A $250 Million Bribery Scheme According to the DOJ, between 2020 and 2024, the defendants agreed to pay more than $250 million in bribes to Indian government officials to obtain lucrative energy contracts with the Indian government, which were projected to generate more than $2 billion in profits. Allegedly, Adani Green raised $750 million from investors through the sale of corporate bonds, including $175 million from U.S. investors. As alleged, Gautam S. Adani, Sagar R. Adani and Vneet S. Jaain caused the Indian Energy Company to raise capital using false and misleading statements in connection with U.S. loans totaling more than $2 billion and Rule 144A bond offerings for more than $1 billion underwritten by international financial institutions and US investors. They also were charged with conspiracy to misrepresent the Indian Energy Company’s anti-bribery and corruption practices in order to avoid scrutiny. “The Criminal Division will continue to aggressively prosecute corrupt, deceptive, and obstructive conduct that violates U.S. law, no matter where in the world it occurs.” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Miller. Beyond bribery, Cyril Cabanes, Saurabh Agarwal, Deepak Malhotra and Rupesh Agarwal allegedly conspired to obstruct the grand jury, FBI and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission investigations into the bribery scheme by deleting electronic materials related to the scheme. The SEC’s complaint against Gautam and Sagar Adani charges them with violating Section 17(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 (“Securities Act”), Section 10(b) of the Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”), and Rule 10b-5 thereunder, and with aiding and abetting violations of Section 17(a)(2) of the Securities Act, Section 10(b) of the Exchange Act, and Rule 10b-5(b) thereunder FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy stated, “The FBI maintains its steadfast mission to expose all corrupt agreements, especially with international governments, and protect investors from related harm.” How Indian Whistleblowers Can Use U.S. Laws to Report Corruption Under the SEC Whistleblower Programs, individuals with original information on securities fraud or FCPA violations may be eligible for awards of 10-30% of monetary sanction collected when their information leads to a successful enforcement action of over $1 million. Critically, whistleblowers can report anonymously through the SEC Whistleblower Program, keeping their confidentiality intact. As the Adani indictment shows, SEC actions can include conduct which occurs overseas and the Commission’s whistleblower program covers individuals all across the globe. The SEC has received thousands of whistleblower tips from foreign whistleblowers and has issued numerous awards for conduct occurring overseas. According to the program’s latest annual report , India was the foreign country with the third highest number of whistleblower tips submitted in Fiscal Year 2024. The anti-bribery provisions of the FCPA “prohibit U.S. persons and businesses (domestic concerns), U.S. and foreign public companies listed on stock exchanges in the United States or that are required to file periodic reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (issuers), and certain foreign persons and businesses acting while in the territory of the United States (territorial jurisdiction) from making corrupt payments to foreign officials to obtain or retain business .” Since 2011, the SEC alone has fined 11 companies in connection to bribery in India. Last year, the American-based Albermale Corp., a specialty chemicals company, received a penalty of $103 million to settle with the SEC for bribes paid for sales in public-sector oil refineries, including in India. The long arm of U.S. whistleblower laws under the FCPA can effectively address corruption in India, allowing Indian whistleblowers to report corruption and bribery of government officials by companies with U.S. investors. In 2022, the DOJ and SEC imposed over $1.5 billion in sanctions in FCPA cases, according to a new report by FCPA Clearinghouse. Other transnational U.S. whistleblower laws include the Anti-Money Laundering (“AML”) and Sanctions Whistleblower Program , which covers misconduct under the Bank Secrecy Act (“BSA”) as well as violations of U.S. sanctions. The AML program also covers trade in informal markets and with informal players under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act and Sections 5 and 12 of the Trading With the Enemy Act . Indian nationals can use these laws to combat the corrupt practices of transnational conglomerates. The globalized nature of today’s economy causes many major bribery schemes to fall under the purview of the U.S. government. Foreign national whistleblowers now stand a chance against collusion between big industry and government cronyism.
December 18, 2024 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlightedthe following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: fact-checked peer-reviewed publication trusted source proofread by Hebrew University of Jerusalem A recent study led by researchers from the Institute of Archaeology at the Hebrew University—Hadas Goldgeier, Dr. Antoine Muller, and Prof. Leore Grosman—introduces a new computational method to analyze the architectural development of early settlements. By offering an objective and repeatable approach to examining architectural remains, the study gives a new perspective on the transition from round to rectangular structures during the Neolithic period in the Near East. Architectural forms have long been tied to societal shifts such as changes in social organization , demographics, and economic strategies. However, traditional interpretations of early architecture have relied on qualitative methods, which may oversimplify complex trends. This study, now published in Archaeological Research in Asia , provides a fresh perspective by digitizing building outlines and employing computational tools to objectively quantify their two-dimensional morphology. Using measures like the directionality of normal vectors and minimum angles, the team analyzed 118 structures from 23 sites across the Mediterranean region and Jordan Valley, dating from the Natufian culture to the early Neolithic (15,000–8,500 years ago). The results revealed a far more nuanced picture than the conventional "round-to-rectangular" narrative suggests. Structures with right angles, previously associated with later architectural phases, were found as early as the Natufian period, reflecting significant advances in building technology at an earlier stage than previously thought. Moreover, the variability in structure shapes was highest during the Natufian and early Neolithic periods, reflecting a lack of formalized conventions. Later in the Neolithic, however, architectural forms showed greater uniformity, potentially signaling the emergence of codified building traditions. This study not only challenges traditional interpretations but also highlights the social and technological changes accompanying the transition to permanent settlements and agricultural economies. The computational methodology offers an innovative lens to understand architectural history, demonstrating how quantitative analyses can uncover trends that remain hidden in qualitative approaches. By emphasizing the dynamic variability and technological ingenuity of early builders, this research sheds new light on the inception of architecture in the Levant and underscores the importance of integrating modern analytical tools into archaeological studies . More information: Hadas Goldgeier et al, A computational perspective on the dynamics of early architecture, Archaeological Research in Asia (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.ara.2024.100571 Journal information: Archaeological Research in Asia, Provided by Hebrew University of JerusalemBASHAR al-Assad's 24-year rule over Syria has finally crumbled, marking the end of a regime infamous for its heinous crimes and devastating legacy. Once hailed as a potential reformer, Assad’s journey from a soft-spoken London-trained eye doctor to one of the most brutal dictators of the 21st century is a chilling tale of power corrupted. Assad’s rule over Syria ended in dramatic fashion after rebel f orces stormed Damascus in a surprise offensive , forcing the dictator to flee to Russia. This marked the conclusion of a regime notorious for its brutality, including chemical attacks, mass detentions, and the decimation of Syrian cities. Born in 1965 to Hafez al-Assad, Syria’s iron-fisted leader, Bashar grew up as the unassuming third son in a political dynasty. He seemed destined for a quiet life in medicine, even earning the nickname “geeky IT guy” while specialising in ophthalmology in London . Read more on Syria His life took a dramatic turn in 1994 when his elder brother, Bassel, the family’s chosen heir, died in a car accident. Bashar was abruptly recalled to Syria and groomed for power. When Hafez died in 2000, the Syrian parliament amended the constitution to lower the presidential age requirement from 40 to 34, enabling the younger Assad to assume power. Initially, hope stirred for reform as Bashar promised modernisation, anti-corruption measures, and political openness. Most read in The Sun But the so-called “Damascus Spring” was short-lived. Within a year, Assad cracked down on dissenters, signalling the beginning of his authoritarian rule. THE DESCENT INTO TYRANNY The Assad regime quickly devolved into a kleptocracy, with Assad and his extended family siphoning wealth while suppressing opposition. Corruption ran rampant, and citizens chafed under economic stagnation and police-state oppression. In 2011, when the Arab Spring ignited hope for change across the Middle East , Assad’s government responded to peaceful pro-democracy protests with violence. The brutal suppression in Daraa, where security forces tortured children and fired on unarmed demonstrators, sparked nationwide outrage. Assad’s response was devastating: he unleashed his military on civilians, transforming protests into an all-out civil war. His forces targeted hospitals, schools, and marketplaces with barrel bombs and chemical weapons. The 2013 sarin gas attack on Ghouta left hundreds dead and cemented Assad's reputation as a war criminal. A WAR OF ATTRITION The Syrian Civil War became a geopolitical quagmire. Assad, backed by Russia and Iran, portrayed himself as a bulwark against terrorism while cynically releasing jihadist prisoners to bolster extremist factions. This fuelled the rise of groups like ISIS, reshaping global terror. By 2015, Assad’s regime controlled only 10 per cent of Syria. It was Russia’s military intervention, with relentless airstrikes under the guise of fighting terrorism, that turned the tide. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei propped up Assad, ensuring his survival even as Syria became a battleground for international powers. Despite gaining the upper hand, Assad’s methods hollowed out Syria. Cities like Aleppo and Homs were reduced to rubble, over half the population was displaced, and hundreds of thousands perished. The United Nations accused Assad of widespread atrocities, from systematic torture in government prisons to indiscriminate bombings. ASSAD'S DOWNFALL The end of Assad’s reign came abruptly in December 2024, as rebel forces launched a lightning offensive , exploiting weakened Syrian defences. Rebels captured Damascus in a lightning campaign, declaring the capital “free” and marking the end of years of brutal authoritarian rule. With Russia mired in Ukraine and Iran preoccupied with regional conflicts, Assad’s regime was left vulnerable. Rebels stormed Aleppo, marking a symbolic victory, and Assad fled Damascus. Assad left aboard a military plane amid rumours of its crash before resurfacing in Moscow, where Vladimir Putin granted him asylum. Meanwhile, opposition forces took control of key cities, toppled Assad’s statues, and announced plans for a transitional government. The fall of Assad deals a blow to allies Russia and Iran, with both withdrawing assets from Syria. Challenges remain as Syrians celebrate, but hopes rise for a democratic future after years of war. His fall not only signals the collapse of a dynastic dictatorship but also underscores the cost of clinging to power through terror. Bashar al-Assad has left behind a shattered nation. He decimated Syria’s infrastructure, fractured its society, and plunged millions into despair. Read More on The US Sun Syria became synonymous with human suffering, and Assad’s name will forever be tied to some of the worst war crimes of the modern era. The man once seen as a modernising reformer will be remembered instead as a symbol of unchecked brutality, his legacy written in the blood of his own people.Wall Street week ahead: Investors eye Q3 GDP, PCE inflation, Federal Reserve minutes
STRICTLY Come Dancing fans have been left fuming as another celebrity was sent home in a shock elimination. Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman presented the results show as week 10 of the competition came to an end. Advertisement 3 Another Strictly celebrity has been sent home in a shock elimination Credit: BBC 3 Jamie was sent home after the judges chose to save Montell Credit: BBC 3 Head judge Shirley said she also would have saved Montell over Jamie Credit: BBC Fans watched as the pair announced Jamie Borthwick and Michelle Tsiakkas would face the dreaded dance off with Montell Douglas and Johannes Radebe. During the show the Sugababes performed a medley of hits Overload, Freak Like Me and Push The Button. Jamie and Michelle performed their foxtrot again, while Montell and Johannes followed with their Quickstep. But in a shock to viewers, Craig Revel Horwood, Anton Du Beke and Motsi Mabuse all chose to save Montell. Advertisement more on strictly come dancing show swap The One Show star eyes up Strictly Come Dancing for 2025 after Marin Lewis exit show leak Strictly fans stunned as results leak and show favourite is sent home With the majority vote meaning EastEnders star Jamie was eliminated, head judge Shirley Ballas said she too would have saved Montell. Speaking following the shock result, Jamie said: “Strictly is magic. That is all I can say. Strictly is magic. Not just everyone who you see in front of the camera, these four here [the judges], but everyone who works on this show. "I have such a good bond and relationship with and that's what made me want to do this show, it’s the people, not what I'm doing. I've had the best time. "I could ramble on all day about this one [Michelle]. She's a new pro and she's absolutely been the most amazing teacher. We have laughed like you wouldn’t believe. Advertisement Most read in News TV BEACH BABE Jean Johansson flaunts incredible toned figure & endless legs on Barbados beach HOST'S PAIN BBC's Glenn Campbell makes shock admission as he gives tumour battle update COMIC'S CASTLE Still Game star takes £150,000 hit to offload luxury £4m Scots castle THAT'S A WRAP The Simpsons Milhouse actor retires after 35 years on hit show "I have nothing but the utmost respect for everyone on the show, so thank you.” Pete Wicks has been billed “the new Giovanni” by Strictly bosses Reacting to the result, Strictly fans took to social media, raging how Pete Wicks should have been eliminated. One said: "Seriously people please please stop voting for Pete enough is enough." A second wrote: "Pete Wicks seems like a nice enough chap but I can't believe people are voting for him over Montell." Advertisement "I love Pete, he's a laugh and he's trying and he's what it's about. But I'm sorry what the f**k," said a third. While a fourth commented: "They will not let Pete near the dance off." Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special WINNERS STRICTLY Come Dancing's Christmas Special is rolling back around for 2024. Yet who has already scooped the festive Glitterball Trophy? 2005 Darren Gough & Lilia Kopylova 2006 Colin Jackson & Erin Boag 2007 Darren Gough & Lilia Kopylova 2008 Jill Halfpenny & Darren Bennett 2009 Ali Bastian & Brian Fortuna 2010 John Barrowman & Kristina Rihanoff 2011 Charlie Brooks & Vincent Simone 2012 J.B. Gill & Ola Jordan 2013 Rufus Hound & Flavia Cacace 2014 Louis Smith & Aliona Vilani 2015 Harry Judd & Joanne Clifton 2016 Melvin Odoom & Janette Manrara 2017 Katie Derham & Brendan Cole 2018 Aston Merrygold & Janette Manrara 2019 Debbie McGee & Kevin Clifton 2020 — 2021 Anne-Marie & Graziano Di Prima 2022 Alexandra Mardell & Kai Widdrington 2023 Jamie Borthwick & Nancy XuNone
North Carolina interviews Bill Belichick for head coaching job, AP sources say North Carolina has interviewed former New England Patriots coach and six-time Super Bowl champion Bill Belichick for its head coaching position. That's according to two people who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the school isn’t commenting publicly on its search. Belichick's interview was first reported by Inside Carolina. It comes a week after the school fired its winningest all-time coach in 73-year-old Mack Brown. The 72-year-old Belichick completed a 24-season run with the Patriots after last season and has been linked to NFL jobs. Blackhawks fire coach Luke Richardson in his 3rd season after league-worst start CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago Blackhawks have fired coach Luke Richardson, signaling their frustration with the state of the franchise’s rebuilding project. Chicago has dropped four in a row to fall to an NHL-worst 8-16-2 on the season. It was outscored 41-27 while going 3-9-1 in its last 13 games. Anders Sorensen was elevated to interim coach. Sorensen had been coaching the team’s top minor league affiliate in Rockford. Messi and Inter Miami to open Club World Cup against Egyptian club Al Ahly MIAMI (AP) — Lionel Messi and Inter Miami will open the Club World Cup against Egyptian club Al Ahly, with Palmeiras and Porto also part of that group for the tournament that will take place in the U.S. next year. The draw was held Thursday in Miami, with the 32 teams finally finding out their first three opponents in the newly expanded event. The tournament will be held in the U.S. from June 15 to July 13, using 12 stadiums in 11 different cities. The final will be at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the same stadium that will play host to the 2026 World Cup final. The draw for FIFA’s revamped Club World Cup is coming up. Here’s what to know GENEVA (AP) — Soccer’s biggest ever global club tournament comes to the United States next year and the 32-team group stage is drawn Thursday. FIFA relaunched the Club World Cup to be played every four years. A new generation of stars plays in the 11 U.S. cities from June 15 to July 13. One year later they plan to return for the 2026 World Cup. Real Madrid has Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham. Manchester City has Erling Haaland. Missing out are superstars Cristiano Ronaldo and Robert Lewandowski because Al-Nassr and Barcelona failed to qualify. FIFA ensured an entry for Lionel Messi's Inter Miami. Scottie Scheffler has new putting grip and trails Cameron Young by 3 in Bahamas NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Scottie Scheffler has a new putting grip, and it helped him shoot a 5-under 67 in the first round of the Hero World Challenge. He trails Cameron Young by three shots in the 20-man invitational hosted by Tiger Woods. Young was playing for the first time since the BMW Championship more than three months ago and found great success on and around the greens of Albany Golf Club in the Bahamas. He made four birdie putts from 15 feet or longer for his 64. Justin Thomas was two shots back. Thomas and his wife welcomed a daughter a few weeks ago. Pride, bragging rights and more than $115M at stake when final college playoff rankings come out INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — There’s more than just school pride and bragging rights to all that bellyaching over who might be in and who might be out of college football’s first 12-team playoff. Try the more than $115 million that will be spread across the conferences at the end of the season, all depending on who gets in and which teams go the farthest. When it's all said and done, the teams that make the title game will bring $20 million to their conferences, all of which distribute that money, along with billions in TV revenue and other sources, in different ways. George Russell accuses Max Verstappen of bullying and threatening behavior as F1 feud deepens ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Mercedes driver George Russell has accused Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen of bullying and threatening behavior as a dispute between the two at last week’s race in Qatar deepened. Russell says that “someone needs to stand up to a bully like this” in comments broadcast by Sky Sports. Verstappen said Sunday he had “lost all respect” for Russell over an incident in qualifying for last week's Qatar Grand Prix that saw the Red Bull driver dropped behind Russell on the grid. Luis Severino and Athletics agree to $67 million, 3-year contract, AP sources say Two people familiar with the negotiations tell The Associated Press that right-hander Luis Severino and the Athletics have agreed to a $67 million, three-year contract. Severino can opt out and become a free agent after the 2026 season. Severino’s deal is the largest for the low-budget franchise, topping a $66 million contract for third baseman Eric Chavez covering 2005-10. Severino, who turns 31 on Feb. 20, was a free agent for the second straight offseason after going 11-7 with a 3.91 ERA in his only season with the New York Mets. Olympics leader Bach talks up working with President-elect Trump toward 2028 Los Angeles Games GENEVA (AP) — IOC president Thomas Bach says Olympic leaders are “very confident and relaxed” about working with the incoming Trump administration ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Games. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has talked up his own role helping get the games for LA in 2017 but a White House meeting during that campaign with an Olympic delegation including Bach was not a success. The two men could meet again Saturday in the 2024 Olympics host city Paris. They should attend the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral. U.S. federal support is needed for securing the LA Olympics and issuing visas. Tottenham joins list of top Premier League teams to lose at Bournemouth as fans jeer Postecoglou Manchester City, Arsenal and now Tottenham. The list of top Premier League teams beaten at Bournemouth this season is growing. Dean Huijsen took advantage of Tottenham’s weakness at set pieces to head home a 17th-minute winner in Bournemouth’s 1-0 victory. Some Spurs fans appeared to vent their frustration at manager Ange Postecoglou when he went over to them after his team’s insipid display. Bournemouth climbed into ninth, a point and a place above Tottenham. Title contenders Man City and Arsenal both slipped to their first losses of the campaign at Bournemouth's Vitality Stadium. Alex Iwobi scored goals early and late to lead Fulham to a 3-1 win over Brighton in the other game. Fulham climbed to sixth place.
NC State defensive coordinator Tony Gibson is named head coach at MarshallWestern states assail Russia's Lavrov over Ukraine at OSCE meeting
Beef politics rears its ugly head in AssamLate-night South Korean antics a surprise to allDeion Sanders and the No. 16 Colorado Buffaloes will look to add to their four-game winning streak on Saturday as they take on the Kansas Jayhawks in Week 13 of the 2024 college football season. The game is set to be played at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, the home of two-time defending Super Bowl champion, the Kansas City Chiefs. On Friday, just one day before the game, Coach Prime and the Buffaloes arrived at the NFL stadium. As it happens, Kansas City coach Andy Reid was there as well before he and the Chiefs head to Charlotte, North Carolina, to face the Carolina Panthers in Week 12 of the NFL season. A photo was captured of the two popular head coaches having a conversation. Although it is unclear what was said, there is certainly a lot of football knowledge in the one picture. Coach Prime and Andy Reid at Arrowhead 🔥 📷 : @MJBuffsVoice pic.twitter.com/nBABfZ7Tr8 College football and NFL fans alike loved the interaction between the two coaches, taking to social media to leave their thoughts. "Meeting of greats! Deion Sanders and Coach Andy Reid chatting as Colorado stops by Arrowhead ahead of tomorrow’s Game with KU!" said a user. Another user believes Reid and the Chiefs are cooking something big up for the upcoming 2025 NFL draft. "Don’t count out my team Chiefs they always are cooking something up when it comes to the NFL draft Mahomes to Travis and having Xavier worthy on the other side of you," a second fan said . Another is preparing for a big Colorado crowd at Arrowhead on Saturday. "Remember, the Chiefs playing in Missouri. Missouri hates Kansas," wrote a third. A fourth enjoyed the idea of listening in on the conversation between Sanders and Reid. "To be a fly on the wall during that convo..." the fourth commented . Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Coach Prime has the Buffaloes sitting with an 8-2 overall record and 6-1 in Big 12 play heading into the game against the Jayhawks. With a win on Saturday, Colorado would keep its College Football Playoff hopes alive but would still likely need to win out. Meanwhile, Reid, who has been with Kansas City since 2013, and the Chiefs fell to 9-1 after suffering their first loss of the season this past Sunday against the Buffalo Bills but still remain atop the AFC standings. They are looking to bounce back when they face the Panthers on Sunday. Related: Deion Sanders Made His Thoughts On Julian Lewis' Commitment Extremely Clear