In Gaza, a mass wedding of 54 couples brings hope amid destruction

The Eurovision Song Contest is facing a critical decision as its organizing body may vote on Israel's participation in the 2026 competition, amid threats from several nations to withdraw if Israel is not excluded due to the ongoing Gaza conflict. This situation marks a significant moment for the contest, as it navigates political tensions while aiming to maintain its cultural integrity.

A viral TikTok account has been impersonating France 24 to disseminate fake news, raising concerns about the authenticity of information on social media platforms. The account's false content has been scrutinized by journalist Charlotte Hughes, who highlights the potential dangers of misinformation in the digital age.

In northern Mozambique, over 300,000 individuals have been displaced due to escalating jihadist violence, which is now affecting areas previously considered safe. This alarming trend highlights the growing instability in the region as communities grapple with the influx of violence.

Indonesia is grappling with the aftermath of devastating floods that have claimed over 700 lives, with experts attributing the severity of the disaster to extensive deforestation. The loss of forests, primarily due to timber extraction and palm oil cultivation, has destabilized the land, making it more susceptible to erosion and flooding.

The Red Cross has handed over presumed remains from Gaza to Israel, which Hamas claims belong to one of the last two hostages held in the region. Israeli forensic experts will conduct examinations to confirm the identity of the remains. This transfer follows a ceasefire agreement that has been in place since October 10, during which Hamas has released several bodies of hostages.

'Vertical dramas', also known as 'micro dramas', are gaining popularity as they are specifically designed for mobile viewing, utilizing a vertical format that caters to smartphone screens. These short, easily consumable mini soap operas are thriving as audiences increasingly prefer on-the-go content, blending the personal touch of traditional soap operas with the convenience of modern streaming.

Israel has received the remains of a deceased hostage, identified as Dror Or, from Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). The remains were reportedly found in northern Gaza and will undergo forensic tests in Tel Aviv. This transfer follows a ceasefire that began on October 10, during which Hamas has released several bodies of hostages.

A tractor-trailer driver was rescued in West Virginia after his cab dangled precariously over a bridge for several hours following a crash during the first major winter storm of the season, which brought hazardous conditions to the Northeast and mid-Atlantic regions.