After Australia passes social media ban, lawmakers probed on why Congress hasn't done more to protect kids

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the individual responsible for a recent attack in Syria was killed by U.S. partner forces, although further details were not disclosed. This statement comes amid ongoing military operations in the region and reflects the U.S. commitment to countering threats in Syria.

The House of Representatives has passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), authorizing $901 billion in defense spending, with a vote of 312-112. This bill includes provisions related to military operations, troop pay raises, and foreign investment regulations, and is now set to be reviewed by the Senate.

A Ukrainian drone attack in southwestern Russia resulted in the deaths of two individuals, while parts of Ukraine experienced power outages due to ongoing Russian assaults on energy infrastructure. This incident highlights the escalating violence as U.S.-led peace talks continue in an effort to resolve the conflict.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has introduced a health care plan as Republicans in Congress struggle to find a unified alternative to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, with a critical deadline approaching. The lack of consensus among GOP lawmakers has raised concerns about their ability to effectively address health care issues for millions of Americans.

Belarus has released a Nobel Prize laureate and other prominent political prisoners as the United States lifts sanctions against the country. This move signals a potential thaw in relations between Washington and Minsk, with U.S. officials expressing a desire to normalize diplomatic ties.

The Trump administration has paused visas and other programs that allowed Afghans, including those who assisted U.S. troops, to enter the United States legally. This decision has sparked pushback from some Republicans who are concerned about the implications for Afghan allies seeking refuge.

In Venezuela, rampant rumors circulate amid a backdrop of economic turmoil and U.S. military presence off the coast, creating a climate of uncertainty as the holiday season approaches. Reports suggest that these rumors have intensified following recent U.S. military actions, including the seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker, which has heightened tensions between the two nations.

A preservation group has filed a lawsuit against former President Donald Trump, seeking to halt the construction of a proposed $300 million ballroom at the White House. The National Trust for Historic Preservation argues that the project should undergo multiple independent reviews and receive Congressional approval before proceeding.