France wants to bring voluntary military service back

Two Tunisian aid workers were sentenced to two years in prison for assisting irregular migration but will be released as they have already served their time. This sentencing follows a crackdown on aid workers that began in May 2024, highlighting the legal risks faced by those aiding migrants in Tunisia.

France is set to host Iran's foreign minister in Paris for critical discussions aimed at addressing nuclear and regional tensions. This meeting comes amid ongoing international scrutiny of Iran's nuclear ambitions and its relations with Western nations.

Sudan's paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has declared a unilateral three-month humanitarian ceasefire, following the rejection of an international ceasefire proposal by the regular army. This announcement aims to alleviate the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by ongoing civil conflict in the region.

On November 25th, French haute couture employees celebrate Saint Catherine's Day by wearing elaborate hats, a tradition rooted in the Middle Ages. This custom honors Saint Catherine, the patron saint of unwed women, with yellow and green hats symbolizing faith and hope in finding a husband.

The French prison service has granted notorious drug trafficker Ouaihid Ben Faiza day release from a maximum security prison to meet a potential employer, a decision that has ignited public outrage in France. This incident comes in the wake of heightened tensions surrounding drug-related violence, particularly following the murder of anti-trafficking activist Mehdi Kessaci's brother in Marseille.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to reintroduce voluntary military service starting next year, targeting young volunteers aged 18 for a 10-month commitment. The initiative aims to recruit 3,000 individuals by 2026 and 50,000 by 2035, reflecting heightened security concerns in Europe.

Saudi Arabia is set to open two new alcohol stores, following the establishment of a store in Riyadh last year, despite a longstanding ban on alcohol sales in the country. These new outlets will cater specifically to non-Muslim foreigners, according to sources.

French President Emmanuel Macron commenced a state visit to Gabon to strengthen diplomatic, military, and economic ties with President Brice Oligui Nguema's government following a recent coup. The visit emphasizes a 'new beginning' in relations, with France reducing its military presence while continuing to support key infrastructure projects like the Transgabonais railway renovation.