An adopted polar bear cub and Christmas in the Holy Land: photos of the day – Thursday

Facebook is testing a new system that charges users for sharing web links, limiting those without a paid Meta Verified subscription to just two external links per month. This trial raises concerns among news organizations that rely on social media for content distribution, as it could significantly hinder their reach and engagement.

An 85-year-old Bavarian successfully caught a phone fraudster attempting to extort money by posing as a police officer, marking his second triumph against such scams. The pensioner received a call claiming a family member was in distress, a tactic commonly used to deceive elderly individuals.

A recent analysis by The Guardian highlights a significant increase in ticket prices for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, particularly affecting the cheapest tickets, which have become a luxury for many fans. The study compares current prices with historical data dating back to 1994, revealing that the financial barrier to attending the tournament has risen sharply, especially for those seeking affordable options.

A recent study claims that the AI boom has resulted in carbon dioxide emissions equivalent to those of New York City by 2025, highlighting the environmental costs associated with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence technologies. The research also indicates that water usage related to AI now surpasses global bottled-water demand.

Saudi Arabia's plans to construct 11 new stadiums for the 2034 World Cup are experiencing delays as the Public Investment Fund (PIF) seeks to reduce costs. Architecture firms involved have been instructed to resubmit their designs due to high expenses, and contractors set to begin work next year have been informed that construction will not commence on schedule.

Recent observations of President Donald Trump have raised concerns about his health, with reports indicating he appears tired and has reduced his public engagements. His schedule has become notably lighter, with fewer rallies and more time spent at golf clubs, leading to speculation about his well-being and fitness for office.

Experts warn that climate change is causing extreme weather patterns, leading to significant threats to global food security as crop yields begin to flatline after decades of growth. The impacts of floods, droughts, and erratic weather are becoming increasingly evident, necessitating urgent action to mitigate these effects.

China will implement a 13% value-added tax (VAT) on condoms and other contraceptives starting January 1, marking the first taxation on these products in over thirty years. This move is part of a broader strategy to address the country's declining birth rate and modernize tax regulations.