Hong Kong rings in 2026 without fireworks after deadliest blaze in decades
HONG KONG — Fireworks are typically a celebratory centerpiece of Hong Kong’s New Year celebrations. Not this year.…
Iran appoints new central bank governor after record currency fall and mass protests
TEHRAN, Iran — Iran on Wednesday appointed a new governor to the central bank after the former one…
A rough year for journalists in 2025, with a little hope for things to turn around
NEW YORK — By nearly any measure, 2025 has been a rough year for anyone concerned about freedom…
SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods take effect in five states Jan. 1
Starting Thursday, Americans in five states who get government help paying for groceries will see new restrictions on…
US military carries out 30th strike on alleged drug boat
WASHINGTON — The U.S. military said Monday that it had conducted another strike against a boat accused of…
Iran’s pres. says answer to attack would be harsh in response to Trump warning
TEHRAN, Iran — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday said his country’s answer to an attack would be…
Thieves drill into German bank vault, steal millions of euros worth of property
GELSENKIRCHEN, Germany — Thieves stole tens of millions of euros worth of property from safety deposit boxes inside…
Idaho company recalls nearly 3,000 pounds of ground beef for E. coli risk
An Idaho-based company is recalling nearly 3,000 pounds of raw ground beef that may have been contaminated with…
Leaders from Europe and Canada discuss US-led peace efforts as Russia-Ukraine tensions spike
KYIV, Ukraine — Leaders from Europe and Canada held talks Tuesday on U.S.-led peace efforts to end the…
China’s top diplomat blasts US arms sale to Taiwan as military drills unfold
BEIJING — China’s foreign minister on Tuesday slammed a record U.S. arms sale to Taiwan as Beijing conducted…