International News
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Hamas Demands Israel Ceasefire Pressure
Hamas has urgently called for international pressure on Israel to advance the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, citing alleged Israeli violations that are hindering progress. For the truce to proceed, Hamas demands the full reopening of the Rafah border crossing, an end to Israeli strikes, and increased humanitarian aid, while Israel insists on the return of the last hostage's remains amidst ongoing fragile negotiations.
Thailand Launches Airstrikes on Cambodia
A severe escalation in the long-standing territorial dispute between Thailand and Cambodia unfolded on Monday, December 8, 2025, as Thailand reportedly launched airstrikes against its neighbor, shattering a fragile ceasefire agreement. While Thailand claimed self-defense against Cambodian aggression, Cambodia denied initiating hostilities, with the renewed fighting resulting in multiple civilian and military casualties and forcing hundreds of thousands to flee their homes.
Russia Hits Dnipro; Pokrovsk Battle
A devastating Russian Iskander missile strike on December 1, 2025, tragically killed four and injured over 40 in Dnipro's industrial area, highlighting the persistent threat to Ukrainian cities. Simultaneously, Russia claimed to have captured the strategically vital city of Pokrovsk, a claim immediately disputed by Ukraine, where fierce fighting reportedly continues.
India Hosts UNESCO Heritage Session at Red
India is currently hosting the 20th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage at the iconic Red Fort in New Delhi, a significant first for the nation that has drawn over 1,000 delegates from more than 185 countries. This landmark event, coinciding with India's 20th anniversary of ratifying the 2003 UNESCO Convention, aims to protect and popularize living traditions globally, with India notably proposing Diwali for inscription on the ICH list.
India Opens New Consulate in Shanghai
India officially inaugurated a state-of-the-art consulate building in Shanghai on December 7, 2025, marking a significant upgrade in diplomatic infrastructure and the first relocation for India's mission in 32 years. This expansive new facility, more than double the size of its predecessor, aims to strengthen bilateral ties, enhance service delivery, and coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and China.
Thai-Cambodia Border Clashes Threaten Peace
New hostilities erupted along the disputed Thai-Cambodian border on December 8, 2025, as Thai forces reportedly opened fire with tanks in Preah Vihear province, just two months after a peace agreement was signed. This incident has led to conflicting accounts, with Cambodia calling for international condemnation and claiming restraint, while Thailand alleges Cambodian aggression and has deployed F-16 fighter jets in response.
Russia barrages Ukraine energy with missiles
Russia unleashed a devastating missile and drone barrage on Ukraine's energy infrastructure overnight into December 7, 2025, resulting in widespread blackouts and significant damage across numerous regions. This severe assault, involving hundreds of projectiles, caused civilian casualties and temporarily disrupted power at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, forcing other nuclear facilities to reduce output.
Gaza Ceasefire: Phase 2 Talks Critical
The initial phase of the Gaza ceasefire has reached a "critical moment," with international mediators intensely working to advance the deal to a second phase, despite the significant hurdle of securing the return of the last Israeli hostage's remains. Qatar's Prime Minister clarified that the current cessation is merely a "pause," while a proposed second phase, championed by U.S. President Donald Trump, aims to deploy an International Stabilization Force and establish a technocratic Palestinian government.
DR Congo, Rwanda Sign Peace Deal Amid
In a significant diplomatic effort, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda officially signed the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity on December 4th, aiming to foster trust and achieve lasting peace in the long-troubled eastern DRC. Despite this high-profile agreement, facilitated by the United States and welcomed by the UN, active fighting persists near border areas, and both nations' leaders have expressed reservations about its implementation.
China-Japan Crisis Cancels 1,900+ Flights
A significant political dispute between China and Japan has led to the cancellation of over 1,900 flights scheduled for December 2025, severely impacting travel and trade between the two nations. This drastic reduction in air travel, representing 40% of all flights from mainland China to Japan, stems from inflammatory remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi concerning Taiwan, prompting a Chinese travel advisory and widespread cancellations.
DRC, Rwanda Sign Peace Deal at White House
In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda signed the "Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity" at the White House on December 4, 2025, aiming to end decades of entrenched conflict in the eastern DRC. This new agreement mandates Rwanda's troop withdrawal and the DRC's cessation of support for the FDLR militia, yet its fragility is already evident with fresh fighting erupting in eastern Congo even as the deal was finalized.