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casino fish market VERIFYING 6 kinds of social media scamsDomestic markets closed marginally lower on Friday in a volatile trading session. Looking ahead, there are a slew of significant economic data releases, including GDP numbers from the US, Japan, and UK, along with China’s CPI and PPI, and India’s CPI. Here's breaking down the pre-market actions: STATE OF THE MARKETS GIFT Nifty (Earlier SGX Nifty) signals a negative start GIFT Nifty on the NSE IX traded lower by 54.25 points, or 0.22 per cent, at 24,729, signaling that Dalal Street was headed for negative start on Monday. Tech View: Analysts say adopting a buy-on-dips strategy seems prudent, especially with the potential for an upward move toward 25,500 in the short term. However, minor pullbacks following a sharp rally are possible, further emphasizing the effectiveness of buying on dips to capitalize on this trend. India VIX: India VIX, which is a measure of the fear in the markets, fell 2.7% to settle at 14.14 levels. Asian stocks down Asian shares were dragged by a slide in South Korea on Monday ahead of a packed week of central bank meetings that should see borrowing costs take a step lower, while U.S. inflation data are the last hurdle to a further policy easing there. Stock Trading Market 104: Options Trading: Kickstart Your F&O Adventure By - Saketh R, Founder- QuickAlpha, Full Time Options Trader View Program Stock Trading A2Z of Stock Market for Beginners: Stock Market Course For Beginners By - elearnmarkets, Financial Education by StockEdge View Program Stock Trading Candlesticks Made Easy: Candlestick Pattern Course By - elearnmarkets, Financial Education by StockEdge View Program Stock Trading Dow Theory Made Easy By - Vishal Mehta, Independent Systematic Trader View Program Stock Trading Technical Analysis for Everyone - Technical Analysis Course By - Abhijit Paul, Technical Research Head, Fund Manager- ICICI Securities View Program Stock Trading Stock Investing Made Easy: Beginner's Stock Market Investment Course By - elearnmarkets, Financial Education by StockEdge View Program Stock Trading Point & Figure Chart Mastery: A Comprehensive Trading Guide By - Mukta Dhamankar, Full Time Trader, 15 Years Experience, Instructor View Program Stock Trading Introduction to Technical Analysis & Candlestick Theory By - Dinesh Nagpal, Full Time Trader, Ichimoku & Trading Psychology Expert View Program Stock Trading Renko Chart Patterns Made Easy By - Kaushik Akiwatkar, Derivative Trader and Investor View Program Stock Trading Complete Guide to Stock Market Trading: From Basics to Advanced By - Harneet Singh Kharbanda, Full Time Trader View Program Stock Trading Heikin Ashi Trading Tactics: Master the Art of Trading By - Dinesh Nagpal, Full Time Trader, Ichimoku & Trading Psychology Expert View Program Stock Trading Algo Trading Made Easy By - Vivek Gadodia, Partner at Dravyaniti Consulting and RBT Algo Systems View Program Oil mixed Oil prices were mixed in early Asia trade on Monday as concerns over weak Chinese demand were offset by rising tensions in the Middle East following the rebel overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Major currencies steady The Canadian dollar and Australian dollar were in focus on Monday ahead of their central bank meetings this week, while the euro and other major currencies held steady as traders reviewed the U.S. dollar's prospects. Stocks in F&O ban today 1) Granules 2) Manappuram Securities in the ban period under the F&O segment include companies in which the security has crossed 95% of the market-wide position limit. FII/DII action Foreign portfolio investors turned net sellers at Rs 1,830 crore on Friday. DIIs bought shares worth Rs 1659 crore. Rupee The rupee recovered settled for the day with loss of just 0.02% at 84.64 against the US dollar in a range-bound trade on Thursday. FII data The net short of FIIs reduced from Rs 45,397 crore on Thursday to Rs 39,441 crore on Friday. (Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of Economic Times) (You can now subscribe to our ETMarkets WhatsApp channel )

OTTAWA — After being blanked 4-0 by host Canada the night before, Finland bounced back with a gritty 3-1 win over Germany during Friday's second day of competition at the World Junior Hockey Championship in Ottawa. Emil Pieniniemi, Arttu Alasiurua and Jesse Kiiskinen scored for Finland, which outshot the winless German crew 43-32. Clemens Sager scored for Germany, which lost 10-4 to the defending champion United States on Boxing Day. Finland led 1-0 after the first period and 2-1 heading into the third. Germany's goaltender Linus Vieillard stopped 40 of 42 shots directed at him, while Petteri Rimpinen stopped 31 of 32 shots for Finland. Both teams play their next games Sunday when Finland plays the U.S. and Germany faces Canada. Earlier on Friday, Slovakia bounced back from a 5-2 opening-day loss to Sweden to edge Switzerland 2-1. Jan Chovan's goal with 3:18 left in the third period snapped a 1-1 deadlock and lifted Slovakia to the victory. Daniel Jencko also scored for Slovakia. Eric Schneller scored for winless Switzerland, which lost 5-1 on Thursday to Czechia. Both teams had 29 shots on goal. Both teams play again Sunday when Slovakia faces Czechia and Switzerland plays Sweden. In later games Friday, Sweden will square off with Kazakhstan, while Canada will face Latvia. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 27, 2024. The Canadian Press“As a former president of the ANC, Mr. Zuma was expected to embody the highest standards of disciplined leadership and to serve as a guide and inspiration for all members of our movement and society,” she said. Former ANC president and founder of the breakaway Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, Jacob Zuma, has officially been expelled from the African National Congress (ANC). This follows the decision by the party’s National Disciplinary Committee of Appeal, which upheld the previous expulsion by the ANC’s National Disciplinary Appeal Committee. Zuma’s Formation of MK Party Zuma launched the MK party in December of the previous year, while still claiming membership of the ANC. This move garnered significant attention, and the MK party secured 14% of the national vote in the 29 May elections, taking over the parliamentary majority that the ANC had held since 1994. Zuma had been suspended and charged under the ANC’s constitution, leading to the disciplinary hearing that culminated in his expulsion last month. He appealed the decision, but the appeal was rejected. ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri released a statement on Friday afternoon, condemning Zuma’s actions as “the highest form of ill-discipline” and a “direct attack on the historical mission of the ANC.” According to Bhengu-Motsiri, by establishing a rival political party, Zuma had abandoned the core values of organisational loyalty and collective accountability. She stated that his actions destabilised the movement, as he had transformed into a “tool of destabilisation.” “As a former president of the ANC, Mr. Zuma was expected to embody the highest standards of disciplined leadership and to serve as a guide and inspiration for all members of our movement and society,” she said. “Instead, his actions have undermined the unity and cohesion of the movement at a critical time.” ANC’s Commitment to Revolutionary Morality Bhengu-Motsiri further emphasised that the ANC’s decision to expel Zuma was necessary to protect the integrity and unity of the party. “The ANC will never permit any individual, regardless of stature or historical contribution, to undermine its mission to build a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, and prosperous society,” she added. She also reaffirmed the ANC’s commitment to revolutionary morality, discipline, and democratic centralism. “This decision must serve as a reminder that no individual is greater than the movement, and that the ANC’s strength lies in its collective leadership and unwavering dedication to the aspirations of the people,” Bhengu-Motsiri concluded. Zuma, who served two terms as president of both the ANC and South Africa until his recall in February 2018, has maintained that he remains a member of the ANC. He argued that the MK party’s formation was intended to “save” the ANC from its current leadership. Despite this, the MK party is now the official opposition in both parliament and KwaZulu-Natal.

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Master African spoken word poetry like a proThe United States saw an 18.1% increase in homelessness this year, a dramatic rise driven mostly by a lack of affordable housing as well as devastating natural disasters and a surge of migrants in several parts of the country, federal officials said Friday. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said federally required tallies taken across the country in January found more than 770,000 people were counted as homeless — a number that misses some people and does not include those staying with friends or family because they don't have a place of their own. That increase comes on top of a 12% increase in 2023, which HUD blamed on soaring rents and the end of COVID-19 pandemic assistance. The 2023 increase also was driven by people experiencing homelessness for the first time. The numbers overall represent 23 of every 10,000 people in the U.S., with Black people being overrepresented among the homeless population. A man walks past a homeless encampment Oct. 25, 2023, in downtown Los Angeles. "No American should face homelessness, and the Biden-Harris Administration is committed to ensuring every family has access to the affordable, safe, and quality housing they deserve," HUD Agency Head Adrianne Todman said in a statement, adding that the focus should remain on "evidence-based efforts to prevent and end homelessness." Among the most concerning trends was a nearly 40% rise in family homelessness — one of the areas that was most affected by the arrival of migrants in big cities. Family homelessness more than doubled in 13 communities impacted by migrants including Denver, Chicago and New York City, according to HUD, while it rose less than 8% in the remaining 373 communities. Almost 150,000 children experienced homelessness on a single night in 2024, reflecting a 33% jump from last year. Disasters also played a part in the rise in the count, especially last year's catastrophic Maui wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. More than 5,200 people were in emergency shelters in Hawaii on the night of the count. Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries agents assist state police as they order people living in a homeless encampment to move to a different designated location during a sweep ahead of a Taylor Swift concert in New Orleans. "Increased homelessness is the tragic, yet predictable, consequence of underinvesting in the resources and protections that help people find and maintain safe, affordable housing," Renee Willis, incoming interim CEO of the National Low Income Housing Coalition, said in a statement. "As advocates, researchers, and people with lived experience have warned, the number of people experiencing homelessness continues to increase as more people struggle to afford sky-high housing costs." Robert Marbut Jr., the former executive director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness from 2019 to 2021, called the nearly 33% increase in homelessness over the past four years "disgraceful" and said the federal government needs to abandon efforts to prioritize permanent housing. "We need to focus on treatment of substance use and mental illness, and bring back program requirements, like job training," Marbut said in an email. The numbers also come as increasing numbers of communities are taking a hard line against homelessness. People living in a homeless encampment pick up belongings Oct. 23 after Louisiana State Police ordered them to move to a different designated location during a sweep ahead of a Taylor Swift concert in New Orleans. Angered by often dangerous and dirty tent camps, communities — especially in Western states — have enforced bans on camping. That follows a 6-3 ruling this summer by the Supreme Court that found outdoor sleeping bans don’t violate the Eighth Amendment. Homeless advocates argued that punishing people who need a place to sleep would criminalize homelessness. There was some positive news in the count, as homelessness among veterans continued to trend downward. Homelessness among veterans dropped 8% to 32,882 in 2024. It was an even larger decrease for unsheltered veterans, declining 11% to 13,851 in 2024. "The reduction in veteran homelessness offers us a clear roadmap for addressing homelessness on a larger scale," Ann Oliva, CEO of the National Alliance to End Homelessness, said in a statement. "With bipartisan support, adequate funding, and smart policy solutions, we can replicate this success and reduce homelessness nationwide. Federal investments are critical in tackling the country's housing affordability crisis and ensuring that every American has access to safe, stable housing." Several large cities had success bringing down their homeless numbers. Dallas, which worked to overhaul its homeless system, saw a 16% drop in its numbers between 2022 to 2024. Los Angeles, which increased housing for the homeless, saw a drop of 5% in unsheltered homelessness since 2023. A rat sniffs the hand of a sleeping man experiencing homelessness Dec. 18 in downtown Los Angeles. California, the most populous state in the U.S., continued to have the nation's largest homeless population, followed by New York, Washington, Florida and Massachusetts. The sharp increase in the homeless population over the past two years contrasts with success the U.S. had for more than a decade. Going back to the first 2007 survey, the U.S. made steady progress for about a decade in reducing the homeless population as the government focused particularly on increasing investments to get veterans into housing. The number of homeless people dropped from about 637,000 in 2010 to about 554,000 in 2017. The numbers ticked up to about 580,000 in the 2020 count and held relatively steady over the next two years as Congress responded to the COVID-19 pandemic with emergency rental assistance, stimulus payments, aid to states and local governments and a temporary eviction moratorium. Homelessness is intertwined with the cost of living, and the high cost of living is hitting older adults fairly hard. A Westat survey for the Department of Health and Human Services found that older adults are the fastest-growing cohort of the homeless population. Emergency housing for seniors can keep that number from climbing higher. Caring.com details how to access it. The number of homeless seniors isn't based solely on people remaining homeless as they age; it also includes those whose first experience with homelessness came after they turned 50. In 2023, The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reported that 1 in 5 homeless people were over the age of 55. For seniors and other older adults, fixed incomes make it hard to battle the ever-increasing cost of expenses. Endhomelessness.org cites that 2.35 million older adults are paying over half of their limited income to rent. Based on Caring.com's July 2024 survey of seniors in the workforce , that's exactly why 1 in 15 retired seniors worry about losing their homes. Shelter use in homeless people older than 51 has gone up over 10% from 2007 to 2017, according to the HUD. But luckily, so has the number of shelters. Between 2022 and 2023, the HUD reports that emergency shelters added 28,760 more beds in emergency shelters, though this is a reduction in the amount of beds available during the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic. Emergency homeless assistance, or emergency housing, is a temporary solution. It's designed to provide shelter while those facing housing instability figure out their next step. Emergency housing for homeless seniors gives someone the immediate ability to remain housed and safely sheltered. Local nonprofits are often involved in placing people experiencing homelessness or housing instability into emergency shelters. Low-income seniors, seniors who are low on funds and might not make rent, or seniors who need to leave their homes for other reasons can use emergency housing. Many cities have their own emergency housing programs. There are also nationwide programs that provide emergency housing for seniors. The internet is the fastest tool for locating local emergency housing. Libraries have free internet access, for those who might not have a computer or Wi-Fi to begin their search. The list below leads to websites that include phone numbers for emergency homeless assistance. Seniors in need of immediate assistance and resources should call 2-1-1 or contact the United Way online . The 2-1-1 crisis hotline partners with United Way, which is committed to helping homeless seniors find local shelters or access transitional housing. The service can also connect seniors with other resources, including food, mental health support, or funding for health care expenses. Calling 2-1-1 is often required as a prerequisite before trying to get into a shelter or obtaining other assistance. Because 2-1-1 is for people in crisis, there are no eligibility requirements. However, some programs seniors may access through 2-1-1 do have eligibility requirements. Seniors can simply dial 2-1-1 from nearly anywhere in the U.S. to be put in touch with the programs and resources they need. Designed specifically for seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income families, the Housing Choice Voucher Program is a federal program offering low-income housing options and rent assistance. These vouchers are available through your local public housing agency (PHA). This program enables and encourages participants to choose their own housing. Housing options don't need to be a part of subsidized housing projects, but there are limits on unit size. Typically, participants must pay 30% of their monthly adjusted income towards their rent, and the voucher program pays the remainder. Applicant income and family size help the PHA determine eligibility. Citizenship and eligible immigration status also play a factor. The family's income cannot exceed 50% of the median income for the county or metropolitan area where they're applying to live. Of the vouchers, 75% must go to people whose income is at or less than 30% of their area's median income. Contact your local public housing agency . The Section 202 program helps expand the supply of affordable housing with supportive services for seniors. This program gives low-income seniors options that allow them to live independently, with support for cooking, cleaning, transportation, etc. This program is open to any very low-income household that has at least one person 62 years old or older. Applicants must submit an application in response to a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) posted on Grants.gov . The HUD-VASH program was created as emergency homeless assistance for veterans. Its goal is to give homeless veterans access to permanent housing through public housing authorities. Veterans receive rental assistance through the HUD Housing Choice Voucher program and additional case management services through the VA. By December 2023, the HUD had allocated nearly 112,000 vouchers to help house veterans nationwide. To help veterans achieve stability and remain housed, VA case managers may connect veterans with support services such as health care, mental health treatment, and substance use counseling. If you or your loved one is a low-income senior with eligible military service, you may apply. Your local VA can tell you if your service qualifies you for HUD-VASH. Senior veterans may apply online or call (877) 424-3838. Click here to learn more about the emergency housing options for seniors available in your state. Low-income seniors who aren't in assisted living or independent living communities might find themselves facing housing instability. Emergency housing for seniors can help you or your loved one seek shelter. Crisis hotlines and public housing agencies can offer support. Finding emergency housing for seniors depends heavily on your area. The first step is to call the Crisis Hotline at 2-1-1. Finding a shelter takes less time than applying and getting approved for low-income housing voucher programs. The 2-1-1 hotline can direct you to local resources and locators. Yes and no. The duration depends on the type of housing. Shelters have limits that vary. Some shelters allow people to stay for up to six months, though that can vary based on demand. Seniors can remain in Section 202 supportive housing as long as they meet age and income requirements. Yes. Many counties have financial emergency programs that help seniors handle home repairs or short-term financial crises like utility shutoff. These programs allow the senior to focus their funds on their rent or mortgage. This story was produced by Caring.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker Media. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.

Qatar's energy minister said he isn't too concerned about U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's pledge to boost domestic liquefied natural gas output. "Additional gas is going to be required, whether it is from the U.S., Qatar or other places. So additional LNG and additional competition is welcome," Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, Qatar's energy minister and CEO of state gas company QatarEnergy, told CNBC's Dan Murphy at the Doha forum on Dec. 7. Qatar's energy minister said he isn't too concerned about U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's pledge to lift the cap on liquefied natural gas exports. > 24/7 San Diego news stream: Watch NBC 7 free wherever you are "Additional gas is going to be required, whether it is from the U.S., Qatar or other places. So additional LNG and additional competition is welcome," Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, Qatar's energy minister and CEO of state gas company QatarEnergy, told CNBC's Dan Murphy at the Doha Forum on Dec. 7. "If you open up LNG and say we are going to export another 300 million tons ... or 500 million tons from the U.S., all these projects are driven by private enterprises that look at the commercial viability of projects, and there is going to be a limit." "It will all depend on supply, demand and the long-term outlook for these companies," he added, saying "I don't worry much about it." Trump wants to "drill, baby, drill" — in other words, boost domestic oil and natural gas production. His transition team is putting together an energy package to roll out within days after he takes office that would approve export permits for new LNG projects and increase oil drilling in the country, Reuters reported. "If you take a decision to have an LNG facility or an export facility, and decide to do it today, it takes six to 10 years to actually have it up and running and operational," he said, stressing that it is not a "switch on, switch off" move. Money Report CNBC Daily Open: Geopolitical uncertainty intensifies over the weekend China consumer inflation rate drops to a five-month low, missing expectations as economy slows The U.S. and Qatar have held onto their position as the world's biggest LNG suppliers , with a combined market share of almost 50%. Competition between the two major exporters has intensified this year after Europe's decision to phase out reliance on Russia's pipeline gas and as U.S. suppliers quickly filled the supply gap. Kaabi said the European Union needs to "thoroughly" review the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive — which requires large companies to "identify and address" negative environmental impacts, among others, in their operations. The penalty can go up to 5% of a company's total generated revenue, Kaabi added, stressing that it would "harm" European companies and those operating in the bloc, which will be subject to take higher costs to complete the due diligence. The CSDDD, which will take effect in 2027, is estimated to affect around 5,500 EU-based companies and at least 1,000 non-EU companies with significant business in the region, Reuters reported in July. The Qatar Investment Authority — which manages estimated $510 billion in assets, according to the Global SWF — and other fund managers would consider pulling investment out of EU to avoid penalties, he added. "It is very serious for them," Kaabi said, adding that the European economies "are not doing great, so they need foreign direct investments, and they need support." Also on CNBC President-elect Trump says Ukraine to 'possibly receive less military aid Here are 4 things we’re watching in the stock market in the week ahead Best utilities to own in 2025 after breakout year for sector, according to KeyBanc

A year with Javier Milei

Indiana aims to limit turnovers vs. MinnesotaLucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for coining the term ‘ Divyangjan ' and inspiring differently-abled persons to excel in all fields by respecting their sentiments. He was speaking at an event to mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities . Affirming his govt's commitment to the welfare of differently-abled persons, the CM said that whenever Divyangjans were given the opportunity, they demonstrated exceptional talent and capabilities. Giving the example of Ashtavakra, Mahakavi Surdas, physicist Stephen Hawking, and Jagadguru Swami Rambhadracharya to highlight that Divyangjans are in no way less than any other person, the CM said, "Individuals, when provided with a platform and the support of society, have contributed to the nation, the world, and humanity through their talent, proving they are in no way lesser than others. International Day of Persons with Disabilities serves as a platform to inspire society to adopt this inclusive approach and celebrate the capabilities of Divyangjans." The CM said that there was a need to expand educational institutions for visually impaired, deaf, and other differently-abled children. The state, he said, was already home to two prominent Divyang universities, Dr Shakuntala Mishra National Rehabilitation University in Lucknow and Jagadguru Rambhadracharya University in Chitrakoot. In addition to these facilities, he said, there was also the need for trained teachers, adequate honorariums, and the use of technology to empower these institutions. Stressing the importance of determination and dedication, the CM said that when there was a will to work, lack of funds was never a barrier. A person preparing quietly would have the results to speak for their talent, he said. Highlighting the efforts made by his govt for differently-abled persons in the state, the CM said, "In 2017, the pension for differently-abled individuals was a mere Rs 300 and was often delayed for months. Today, the amount has increased to Rs 1,000 per month, benefiting 11 lakh differently-abled people. The pension is directly transferred to beneficiaries' accounts. Families affected by leprosy are now provided with a monthly pension of Rs 3,000, further demonstrating the govt's commitment to inclusivity and support for the marginalised," he said. The CM also related the story of Ramchandra Gupta from Kanpur, who, despite being a divyang, became a model of self-reliance by running a large centre for children. He also spoke about the success of divyang athletes at the Paris Paralympics, highlighting their talent and determination. "All govt buildings must have ramps for the divyangs, and Rs 40 crore has been allocated for free travel on Transport Corporation buses for differently-abled individuals. Financial support is being given to divyang couples, with Rs 15,000 where the husband is divyang, Rs 20,000 where the wife is divyang, and Rs 35,000 for both. Grants of Rs 20,000 are also available for shop construction, and Rs 10,000 for operating shops, kiosks, or handcarts," the CM said. In addition to these measures, the CM said that there were increased grants for differently-abled persons for surgeries and financial support for cochlear implants for hearing-impaired children. Already, 24 such surgeries were successfully conducted this year. The state is also supporting the operation of several institutions, including pre-primary and daycare centres, as well as shelter homes and training centres in cities such as Meerut, Bareilly, and Gorakhpur. The CM said that in addition to this, the state govt was also working to uplift backward classes and girls. The budget for the backward class welfare department has increased from Rs 1,295 crore in 2016-17 to about Rs 2,800 crore now. The Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme, which has seen a rise in funding from Rs 107 crore to Rs 160.16 crore, benefits 7.58 lakh students against 5.19 lakh students earlier. Additionally, Rs 300 crore has been allocated for scholarships for backward-class students. The post-matric scholarship and fee reimbursement programme has also expanded, benefiting 19.80 lakh students with Rs 2,070 crore, compared to 11.13 lakh students in 2016-17. The CM also extended his greetings on the birth anniversary of India's first President, Dr Rajendra Prasad, and for National Advocates Day.The country is alerted about 11265 victims of violence: Girls and elderly women are the ones who suffer more violence Every year it is commemorated the International Day for Elimination of Violence against Women. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) states that in the region of the Americas nearly 500 people die every day as a result of some cause of violence. This region has the highest homicide rate in the world, three times higher than the world average. For the Ombudsman’s Office: This commemoration, is an urgent call to take action against the scourge that thousands of women face daily due to violence, and which continues to be one of the most systematic violations of their fundamental rights. According to the Ombudsman, Angie Cruickshank, this date is an opportunity to examine how, despite advances in human rights, gender violence persists and, in many cases, worsens. Violence is linked to underdevelopment ‘Violence perpetuates poverty, undermines social and economic development, and generates a cycle of suffering that impacts entire families and communities. We cannot allow this violence to continue to perpetuate itself without taking decisive action. Every time a woman suffers violence, we not only take away her freedom and dignity , but we weaken the social fabric that binds us all together as a society. Violence is a fracture that does not distinguish social classes, ages or races, and we must confront it with a comprehensive strategy that addresses its causes and consequences at all levels. It is important to reiterate that violence against women is not only a problem that affects women; it is a problem of society as a whole. Data from the Observatory of gender violence against women and access to justice of the Judiciary in 2024, 21 women have been victims of femicide; 142 requests for protection measures are filed every day and two femicides per month in Costa Rica. Authorities warn about 11265 victims of violence in Costa Rica 11265 women have been victims of violence during the first 10 months of 2024, according to data from the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), as of October 2024. The age group from 10 to 19 years old occupies the first place, with a rate of 758 cases per 100,000 inhabitants (0.758%). This group is followed by girls under 10 years of age with a rate of 438 cases per 100,000 inhabitants (0.438%) and the third place is occupied by women 65 years of age and older, with a rate of 410 cases per 100,000 inhabitants (0.410%). Gabriela Artavia Monge, Administrative Manager of the CCSS, asked to advance towards a society that supports this fight in an integral way in favor of the protection of the human rights of women of all ages, in the framework of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women: Providing comprehensive care to all those victims of violence is a duty that emanates from our work as guarantors of social security and from the commitments that the CCSS has acquired in the framework of the defense of human rights. According to institutional statistics, the most frequent types of violence include the following: physical abuse: 5665 cases sexual abuse: 4158 cases psychological abuse: 3891 cases. According to the United Nations (UN), violence against women and girls continues to be one of the most widespread and generalized human rights violations in the world. It is estimated that, globally, almost one in three women have been victims of physical or sexual violence at least once in their lives. Tags costa rica costa rica news Daily News International Day National News news news costa rica Women Triggers Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. document.addEventListener("DOMContentLiteSpeedLoaded",function(){document.body.addEventListener("click",function(event){if(event.target.matches(".comment-reply-link, #cancel-comment-reply-link")){turnstile.reset(".comment-form .cf-turnstile")}})}) jQuery(document).ajaxComplete(function(){setTimeout(function(){turnstile.render("#cf-turnstile-c-3470020834")},1000)})

College Football Playoff's first 12-team bracket is set with Oregon No. 1 and SMU in, Alabama out SMU captured the last open spot in the 12-team College Football Playoff, bumping Alabama to land in a bracket that placed undefeated Oregon at No. 1. The selection committee preferred the Mustangs, losers of a heartbreaker in the Atlantic Coast Conference title game, who had a far less difficult schedule than Alabama of the SEC but one fewer loss. The inaugural 12-team bracket marks a new era for college football, though the Alabama-SMU debate made clear there is no perfect formula. The tournament starts Dec. 20-21 with four first-round games. It concludes Jan. 20 with the national title game in Atlanta. Alabama left out of playoff as committee rewards SMU's wins over Crimson Tide's strong schedule The College Football Playoff committee took wins over strength of schedule, taking SMU over Alabama for the final at-large spot in the field. The field was expanded from four to 12 teams this season, but that didn’t save the committee from controversy. SMU showed it could compete against a traditional power, losing to Clemson 34-31 on a 56-yard field goal in the ACC title game on Saturday. Alabama had some ups and downs in its first season under coach Kalen DeBoer. The Crimson Tide had quality wins against Georgia and South Carolina, but lost at Vanderbilt, Tennessee and Oklahoma. Big Ten wins playoff selection derby, followed by SEC despite notable Alabama omission College football’s conference shakeup left concerns about two super conferences dominating the playoff field. They weren’t totally unfounded, or 100% born out. The Big Ten, not the Southeastern Conference, was the biggest winner. The ACC scored, too. The Big Ten led the initial 12-team playoff field with four making the cut, topped by a No. 1 Oregon team that was part of the Pac-12 exodus. Then came the SEC — and one notable omission. ACC runner-up SMU got the nod over college football blue-blood Alabama, another blemish in Kalen DeBoer’s first season as Nick Saban’s championship-or-bust successor. Darnold delivers for Vikings with career-high 347 yards and 5 TDs to beat Falcons, Cousins 42-21 MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Sam Darnold threw for 347 yards and five touchdowns, both career highs, and the Minnesota Vikings pulled away from Kirk Cousins and the Atlanta Falcons 42-21 for their sixth straight victory. Darnold added another highlight to his brilliant first season with the Vikings following Cousins' departure in free agency to Atlanta with a 22-for-28 performance and no turnover-worthy plays despite heavy first-half pressure. Jordan Addison had eight catches for 133 yards and three scores and Justin Jefferson racked up seven receptions for 132 yards and two touchdowns. Cousins threw two more interceptions without a touchdown in his return to Minnesota. Saquon Barkley sets Eagles season rushing record and has Dickerson's NFL mark in his sights PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Saquon Barkley has broken LeSean McCoy's Eagles franchise record for rushing yards in a season. Barkley has 1,623 yards. He surpassed McCoy's mark of 1,607 yards with a 9-yard run in Sunday's 22-16 win over Carolina. Barkley finished the game with 124 yards, within a yard of his season average. He has four games left and is on pace to break Eric Dickerson's 40-year-old NFL record of 2,105 yards. Dickerson set that record in a 16-game season and Barkley has one more game. Eagles fans serenaded Barkley with “MVP!” chants and McCoy congratulated him on social media. Saints QB Derek Carr injures left hand on dive in 4th quarter of win over Giants EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr injured his left hand late in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s 14-11 victory over the New York Giants when he went airborne while trying for a first down and crashed to the turf. Carr tried to leap over a Giants tackler and landed at the New Orleans 39-yard line, extending his non-throwing hand to break his fall. He was on the turf for a minute or two before walking to the medical tent. He was examined and slowly walked to an area where X-rays are done. The injury could hurt the already slim playoff hopes of the Saints. Tamar Bates scores 29 points to help Missouri beat No. 1 Kansas 76-67 COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — Tamar Bates had 29 points and five steals to help Missouri beat Hunter Dickinson and No. 1 Kansas 76-67. Mark Mitchell scored 17 points in Missouri’s first win over Kansas since a 74-71 victory on Feb. 4, 2012. Anthony Robinson II had 11 points and five steals for the 8-1 Tigers. Dickinson had 19 points and 14 rebounds, but he also committed seven turnovers. The 7-2 Jayhawks have lost two straight on the road after falling 76-63 against Creighton on Wednesday night. Scottie Scheffler ends his big year in the Bahamas with his 9th victory NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Scottie Scheffler ended his biggest year with another victory. Scheffler was coming off a two-month break and looked as good as ever. He shot 63 in the Hero World Challenge and set tournament records at Albany with a 72-hole total of 263 and a six-shot victory. Tom Kim was the runner-up and Justin Thomas finished third. Scheffler ends his year with nine victories in 21 tournaments. That includes the holiday tournament in the Bahamas and the Olympic gold medal in Paris. It's the third-highest winning percentage in the last 40 years. Tournament host Tiger Woods had two better years. Lindsey Vonn is encouraged by how close she is to being competitive in ski racing return at age 40 COPPER MOUNTAIN, Colo. (AP) — Lindsey Vonn is encouraged by how close she is to being competitive again in her ski racing return at 40 years old. Vonn is still getting her ski equipment dialed in and getting used to going full speed again on her new titanium knee. That’s why all that she's reading into being more than two seconds behind in a pair of lower-level super-G races Sunday is that she’s right there. This after nearly six years away from ski racing and an abbreviated prep period. She was 2.19 seconds behind in the first race and 2.06 in the second. Both were won by her American teammate Lauren Macuga. Plane circles MetLife Stadium with message to co-owner John Mara to fix the Giants' 'dumpster fire' EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — A small plane circled MetLife Stadium roughly 90 minutes before New York was to play host to the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, asking Giants co-owner John Mara to overhaul the team that has made the playoffs twice since winning the Super Bowl in February 2012. “Mr. Mara, enough. Please fix this dumpster fire!” the message read as it was towed behind the rear of a small plane.

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MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 3, 2024-- Financial advisor Gary Presslaff , a 40-year veteran in the financial services industry, recently joined an established independent Ameriprise Financial, Inc. (NYSE: AMP) practice, Monumental Financial Planning , in Washington D.C. Presslaff manages nearly $100 million in client assets and was most recently affiliated with LPL Financial. John Cortale , Ameriprise Private Wealth Advisor and Managing Director of Monumental Financial Planning, joined Ameriprise in May 2024 from LPL with a goal to grow the practice and enhance the quality and scope of services the team provides to clients. “Joining Ameriprise and Monumental Financial Planning gives me an exciting opportunity to be part of a collaborative team committed to supporting both clients and each other,” said Presslaff. “I was drawn to the firm’s advanced technology, innovative planning strategies and focus on ensuring clients receive top-tier service in an ever-evolving financial landscape.” “Having previously collaborated with Gary at our previous firm, I have witnessed his extensive knowledge and dedication to client success firsthand and I’m thrilled to welcome him to the team,” said Cortale. “We look forward to growing our practice and enhancing our offering with the help of Gary and the collective commitment of our team.” Monumental Financial Planning currently manages over $350 million in client assets and includes four advisors and two support staff. The team is supported locally by Ameriprise Franchise Field Vice President Athena McGuire and Ameriprise Regional Vice President Thomas North . Ameriprise has continued to attract experienced, productive financial advisors, with more than 400 advisors moving their practices to Ameriprise in 2023 and approximately 1,700 joining the firm in the last 5 years. 1 To find out why experienced financial advisors are joining Ameriprise, visit ameriprise.com/why . About the Ameriprise Ultimate Advisor Partnership The Ameriprise Ultimate Advisor Partnership offers a differentiated experience for advisors that helps them accelerate growth while delivering an excellent client experience. Combined with the company’s culture of support and independence, the Ultimate Advisor Partnership enables advisors to scale their businesses, deepen client relationships and drive referrals for future growth. About Ameriprise Financial At Ameriprise Financial , we have been helping people feel confident about their financial future for 130 years. With extensive investment advice, asset management and insurance capabilities and a nationwide network of approximately 10,000 financial advisors 2, we have the strength and expertise to serve the full range of individual and institutional investors' financial needs. Ameriprise Financial cannot guarantee future financial results. Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the CFP ® certification mark, the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM certification mark, and the CFP ® certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Securities offered by Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2024 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. 1 Ameriprise Financial 2023 10-K. 2 Ameriprise Financial Q2 2024 Earnings Release. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241203944113/en/ CONTACT: Allison Harries, Media Relations 612.678.7035 allison.h.harries@ampf.com KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA MINNESOTA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: PERSONAL FINANCE INSURANCE FINANCE CONSULTING FINTECH ACCOUNTING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ASSET MANAGEMENT OTHER PROFESSIONAL SERVICES SOURCE: Ameriprise Financial, Inc. Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/03/2024 03:13 PM/DISC: 12/03/2024 03:13 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241203944113/enPHILADELPHIA , Dec. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- FMC Corporation (NYSE: FMC), a leading global agricultural sciences company, today announced the election of Anthony DiSilvestro to the company's Board of Directors, effective December 12, 2024 . DiSilvestro will serve on the Audit and Compensation and Human Capital Committees. DiSilvestro brings more than 40 years of broad financial experience in multi-billion dollar companies to FMC's Board. He currently serves as the chief financial officer of Mattel Inc., where he has been instrumental in the successful financial turnaround of the company. Prior to Mattel, DiSilvestro held various senior leadership positions at Campbell Soup Company, including Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, where he played a key role in the successful defense of an activist-led proxy contest and led significant cost reduction and divestiture programs. "We are pleased to welcome Anthony to the FMC Board of Directors," said Pierre Brondeau, FMC chairman and chief executive officer. "His extensive experience in leading large transformations, developing and executing corporate strategies, and collaborating with executive leadership teams will be invaluable to FMC. We look forward to benefiting from his expertise and insights." DiSilvestro expressed his enthusiasm for joining FMC's Board, stating, "I am honored to join the Board of Directors of FMC Corporation, a company with a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability. I look forward to working with the Board and management team to contribute to FMC's continued success and value creation for all stakeholders." About FMC FMC Corporation is a global agricultural sciences company dedicated to helping growers produce food, feed, fiber and fuel for an expanding world population while adapting to a changing environment. FMC's innovative crop protection solutions – including biologicals, crop nutrition, digital and precision agriculture – enable growers and crop advisers to address their toughest challenges economically while protecting the environment. With approximately 5,800 employees at more than 100 sites worldwide, FMC is committed to discovering new herbicide, insecticide and fungicide active ingredients, product formulations and pioneering technologies that are consistently better for the planet. Visit fmc.com to learn more and follow us on LinkedIn ® . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fmc-corporation-announces-election-of-anthony-disilvestro-to-board-of-directors-302330762.html SOURCE FMC CorporationBy JUAN A. LOZANO, Associated Press HOUSTON (AP) — An elaborate parody appears to be behind an effort to resurrect Enron, the Houston-based energy company that exemplified the worst in American corporate fraud and greed after it went bankrupt in 2001. If its return is comedic, some former employees who lost everything in Enron’s collapse aren’t laughing. “It’s a pretty sick joke and it disparages the people that did work there. And why would you want to even bring it back up again?” said former Enron employee Diana Peters, who represented workers in the company’s bankruptcy proceedings. Here’s what to know about the history of Enron and the purported effort to bring it back. Once the nation’s seventh-largest company, Enron filed for bankruptcy protection on Dec. 2, 2001, after years of accounting tricks could no longer hide billions of dollars in debt or make failing ventures appear profitable. The energy company’s collapse put more than 5,000 people out of work, wiped out more than $2 billion in employee pensions and rendered $60 billion in Enron stock worthless. Its aftershocks were felt throughout the energy sector. Twenty-four Enron executives , including former CEO Jeffrey Skilling , were eventually convicted for their roles in the fraud. Enron founder Ken Lay’s convictions were vacated after he died of heart disease following his 2006 trial. On Monday — the 23rd anniversary of the bankruptcy filing — a company representing itself as Enron announced in a news release that it was relaunching as a “company dedicated to solving the global energy crisis.” It also posted a video on social media, advertised on at least one Houston billboard and a took out a full-page ad in the Houston Chronicle In the minute-long video that was full of generic corporate jargon, the company talks about “growth” and “rebirth.” It ends with the words, “We’re back. Can we talk?” Enron’s new website features a company store, where various items featuring the brand’s tilted “E” logo are for sale, including a $118 hoodie. In an email, company spokesperson Will Chabot said the new Enron was not doing any interviews yet, but that “We’ll have more to share soon.” Signs point to the comeback being a joke. In the “terms of use and conditions of sale” on the company’s website, it says “the information on the website about Enron is First Amendment protected parody, represents performance art, and is for entertainment purposes only.” Documents filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office show that College Company, an Arkansas-based LLC, owns the Enron trademark. The co-founder of College Company is Connor Gaydos, who helped create a joke conspiracy theory that claims all birds are actually surveillance drones for the government. Peters said that since learning about the “relaunch” of Enron, she has spoken with several other former employees and they are also upset by it. She said the apparent stunt was “in poor taste.” “If it’s a joke, it’s rude, extremely rude. And I hope that they realize it and apologize to all of the Enron employees,” Peters said. Peters, who is 74 years old, said she is still working in information technology because “I lost everything in Enron, and so my Social Security doesn’t always take care of things I need done.” “Enron’s downfall taught us critical lessons about corporate ethics, accountability, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Enron’s legacy was the employees in the trenches. Leave Enron buried,” she said. Follow Juan A. Lozano on X at https://x.com/juanlozano70

Baltimore (8-5) at New York Giants (2-11) Sunday, 1 p.m. EST, CBS BetMGM NFL Odds: Ravens by 16. Against the spread: Ravens 6-6-1; Giants 4-9. Series record: Ravens lead 5-3. Last meeting: Giants beat the Ravens 24-20 on Oct. 16, 2022, in East Rutherford, N.J. Last week: Ravens had a bye; Giants lost to Saints 14-11. Ravens: overall (1), rush (2), pass (5), scoring (3) Ravens defense: overall (22), rush (1), pass (32), scoring (23) Giants offense: overall (26), rush (15), pass (28), scoring (32) Giants defense: overall (16), rush (29), pass (6), scoring (T14) Turnover differential: Raven plus-2; Giants minus-8. K Justin Tucker is having the worst season of his outstanding career, and the potentially windy conditions in East Rutherford could post another challenge for him. Baltimore would love to see some signs that he's rounding into form as the playoffs draw closer. QB Tommy DeVito. He is probably going to get his second start of the season with Drew Lock in a walking boot. The New Jersey product didn't do much in a 30-7 loss to Tampa Bay in his first start. He was 21 of 31 for 189 yards and no touchdowns. Playing without Pro Bowler Dexter Lawrence and fellow defensive tackle Rakeem Nunez-Roches, the young line held its own against Alvin Kamara and the Saints last week, limiting the team to 92 yards rushing on 33 carries. Slowing down the league's No. 1 offense and No. 2 running game led by Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry will be a lot tougher. Ravens: WR Rashod Bateman (knee) practiced this week, and Balticmore is generally pretty healthy following its open date. NT Michael Pierce (calf) and LB Kyle Van Noy (hamstring/neck) practiced as well. Giants: CB Deonte Banks (ribs), ILB Bobby Okereke (back), Nunez-Roches (shoulder-neck), T Chris Hubbard (knee), CB Dru Phillips (shoulder), LT Jermaine Eluemunor (quad) all missed last week and could be out again. ... QB Drew Lock (heel), LG Jon Runyan Jr. (ankle) and CB Tre Hawkins (back) were hurt in the game. Hawkins and S Tyler Nubin (ankle) were placed on injured reserve. Runyan is week to week. Lock is unlikely. T Evan Neal (hip-ankle), T Josh Ezeudu (knee), S Dane Belton (knee), WR Malik Nabers (hip), DL Jordon Riley (knee) are on the injury report. The Giants have won the past three games, including the most recent one in Brian Daboll's first season as coach. The Ravens won the biggest game, beating New York 34-7 in the Super Bowl in Tampa, Fla., on Jan. 28, 2001. The Ravens are coming off a bye week. ... Baltimore averages an NFL-leading 422.5 yards of offense. ... Jackson has had an NFL-best eight games of two or more touchdown passes and no interceptions. He's had no picks in 6 of 7 road games this season. ... WR Zay Flowers leads the team with 74 catches. ... Mark Andrews is tied for second among NFL tight ends with seven touchdown receptions. ... LB Roquan Smith aims for his fourth game in a row with at least 11 tackles. He is tied for fifth in the league with 121 tackles. ... LB Kyle Van Noy recovered a fumble for touchdown in his only game against the Giants. ... LB Odafe Oweh has had a sack in his past two road games. ... Nabers leads the Giants with 80 catches, 819 yards and three touchdown receptions. Fellow rookie RB Tyrone Tracy leads the team with 664 yards rushing and five TDs. ... WR Wan’Dale Robinson is second behind Nabers with 67 catches. The Giants are the only team with two players with at least 67 receptions. ... The Giants have an NFL-low eight touchdown receptions. ... Nubin led all rookies with 97 tackles before going on IR. ... Hawkins had an interception last week, the Giants' first since the season opener. ... OLB Brian Burns had a sack, two tackles for loss and a forced fumble against the Saints. .... ILB Micah McFadden had a team-high 11 tackles, including five for losses last week. He is the fifth player in the past five seasons with five TFLs in one game. ... OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux had sack and two TFLs last week. Ravens RB Derrick Henry. He rushed for 170 yards and two touchdowns in only road game against the Giants. He is tied for the NFL lead with 15 overall TDs, 13 rushing. The 30-year-old is second in the league with 1,407 yards rushing and 1,532 yards from scrimmage. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflCalArts Staff and Faculty Move to UnionizeSANOMA CORPORATION: ACQUISITION OF OWN SHARES 27 December 2024

Former OpenAI researcher’s mother breaks silence on his death; says ‘It doesn’t look like a normal...’WASHINGTON D.C., DC — President Joe Biden said Sunday that the sudden collapse of the Syrian government under Bashar Assad is a “fundamental act of justice” after decades of repression, but it was “a moment of risk and uncertainty” for the Middle East. Biden spoke at the White House hours after after rebel groups completed a takeover of the country following more than a dozen years of violent civil war and decades of leadership by Assad and his family . Biden said the United States was monitoring reports of the whereabouts of Assad, with Russian state media saying he had fled to Moscow and received asylum from his longtime ally. The outgoing Biden administration and President-elect Donald Trump were working to make sense of new threats and opportunities across the Middle East. Biden credited action by the U.S. and its allies for weakening Syria's backers — Russia, Iran and Hezbollah. He said “for the first time” that they could no longer defend Assad's grip on power. “Our approach has shifted the balance of power in the Middle East," Biden said, after a meeting with his national security team. Trump said Sunday that Assad had fled because close ally Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, “was not interested in protecting him any longer.” Those comments on Trump's social media platform came a day after he used another post to decry the possibility of the U.S. intervening militarily in Syria to aid the rebels, declaring, “THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT." The Biden administration said it had no intention of intervening. The U.S has about 900 troops in Syria, including forces working with Kurdish allies in the opposition-held northeast to prevent any resurgence of the Islamic State group. Biden said he intended for those troops to remain, adding that U.S. forces on Sunday conducted “precision air strikes" on IS camps and operations in Syria. U.S. Central Command said the operation hit more than 75 targets. “We’re clear-eyed about the fact that ISIS will try and take advantage of any vacuum to reestablish its credibility, and create a safe haven," Biden said, using a different acronym for the group. "We will not let that happen.” The Syrian opposition that brought down Assad is led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham , which the U.S. says is a terrorist organization with links to al-Qaida, although the group says it has since broken ties with al-Qaida. “We will remain vigilant,” Biden said. “Make no mistake, some of the rebel groups that took down Assad have their own grim record of terrorism and human rights abuses.” He added that the groups are “saying the right things now.” “But as they take on greater responsibility, we will assess not just their words, but their actions,” Biden said. A senior Biden administration official, when asked about contact with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham leaders after Assad's departure, said Washington was in contact with Syrian groups of all kinds. The official, who was not authorized to publicly discuss the situation and spoke on condition of anonymity, also said the U.S. has focused over the past several days on chemical weapons that had been controlled by the Assad government, aiming to ensure they were secured. Still, Assad's fall adds to an already tense situation throughout much of region on many fronts — including Israel's war with Hamas in Gaza and its fragile cease-fire with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Like Biden, Trump, who takes office in five-plus weeks, made a connection between the upheaval in Syria and Russia's war in Ukraine , noting that Assad's allies in Moscow, as well as in Iran, the main sponsor of Hamas and Hezbollah, “are in a weakened state right now.” Vice President-elect JD Vance , a veteran of the U.S.-led war in Iraq, wrote on own social media Sunday to express skepticism about the insurgents. “Many of ‘the rebels’ are a literal offshoot of ISIS. One can hope they’ve moderated. Time will tell,” he said, using another acronym for the group. Trump has suggested that Assad's ouster can advance the prospects for an end to fighting in Ukraine, which was invaded by Russia in February 2022. The president-elect wrote that Putin's government “lost all interest in Syria because of Ukraine” and the Republican called for an immediate cease-fire, a day after meeting in Paris with the French and Ukrainian leaders . Daniel B. Shapiro, a deputy assistant secretary of defense for the Middle East, said the American military presence will continue in eastern Syria but was “solely to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS and has nothing to do with other aspects of this conflict.” “We call on all parties in Syria to protect civilians, particularly those from Syria’s minority communities to respect international military norms and to work to achieve a resolution to include the political settlement,” Shapiro said. “Multiple actors in this conflict have a terrible track record to include Assad’s horrific crimes, Russia’s indiscriminate aerial bomb bombardment, Iranian-back militia involvement and the atrocities of ISIS," he added. Shapiro, however, was careful not to directly say Assad had been deposed by the insurgents. “If confirmed, no one should shed any tears over the Assad regime,” he said. As they pushed toward the Syrian capital of Damascus, the opposition freed political detainees from government prisons. The family of missing U.S. journalist Austin Tice renewed calls to find him. “To everyone in Syria that hears this, please remind people that we’re waiting for Austin,” Tice’s mother, Debra, said in comments that hostage advocacy groups spread on social media. "We know that when he comes out, he’s going to be fairly dazed & he’s going to need lots of care & direction. Direct him to his family please!” Tice disappeared in 2012 outside Damascus, amid intensification of what became a civil war stretching more than a decade. "We’ve remained committed to returning him to his family,” Biden said at the White House. "We believe he’s alive, we think we can get him back but we have no direct evidence to that yet. And Assad should be held accountable.” The president added: “We have to identify where he is." The U.S. has no new evidence that Tice is alive but continues to operate under the assumption that he is, according to a U.S. official. The official, who was not authorized to comment publicly, added that the U.S. will continue to work to identify Tice's whereabouts and to try to bring him home . ___ Associated Press writers Jon Gambrell in Manama, Bahrain, and Aamer Madhani and AP White House Correspondent Zeke Miller contributed to this report.

Donald Trump has urged the US Supreme Court to pause a federal TikTok law that would ban the popular social media app or force its sale, with the Republican US President-elect arguing that he should have time after taking office to pursue a "political resolution" to the issue. TikTok and its owner ByteDance are fighting to keep the popular app online in the United States after Congress voted in April to ban it unless the app's Chinese parent company sells it by January 19. They have sought to have the law struck down, and the Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case. But if the court does not rule in ByteDance's favour and no divestment occurs, the app could be effectively banned in the United States on January 19, one day before Trump takes office. "This case presents an unprecedented, novel, and difficult tension between free-speech rights on one side, and foreign policy and national security concerns on the other," Trump said in a filing on Friday. "Such a stay would vitally grant President Trump the opportunity to pursue a political resolution that could obviate the Court's need to decide these constitutionally significant questions," the filing added. Free speech advocates separately told the Supreme Court on Friday that the US law against Chinese-owned TikTok evokes the censorship regimes put in place by the United States' authoritarian enemies. Trump indicated earlier this week that he favoured allowing TikTok to keep operating in the United States for at least a little while, saying he had received billions of views on the social media platform during his presidential campaign. The US Justice Department has argued that Chinese control of TikTok poses a continuing threat to national security, a position supported by most US lawmakers. TikTok says the Justice Department has misstated the social media app's ties to China, arguing that its content recommendation engine and user data are stored in the United States on cloud servers operated by Oracle Corp. The company added that content moderation decisions that affect US users are made in the United States.