UNITED NATIONS (AP) — Israeli airstrikes hit Yemen’s main airport as a civilian Airbus 320 with hundreds of passengers on board was landing and a U.N. delegation was waiting to leave, the U.N.'s top humanitarian official in Yemen said Friday. Julien Harneis told U.N. reporters that the most frightening thing about the two airstrikes on Thursday wasn’t their effect on him and about 15 others in the VIP lounge at the international airport in Yemen's capital, Sanaa, including the head of the U.N. World Health Organization. Rather, it was the destruction of the airport control tower as a Yemenia Airways plane was taxiing in after touching down. “Fortunately, that plane was able to land safely and the passengers were able to disembark, but it could have been far, far worse,” said Harneis, who was with WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in the lounge . He said one airstrike landed approximately 300 meters (330 yards) south of the VIP lounge and another about 300 meters to the north around 4:45 p.m., while about five members of the U.N. team were outside the building. “Not only obviously did we have zero indication of any potential airstrikes, but we cannot remember the last time there were airstrikes in Sanaa during daylight hours,” Harneis said in a video news conference from Sanaa. The U.N. said at least three people were killed and dozens injured in the strike. Among the injured was a crew member from the U.N. Humanitarian Air Service, which was about to fly the U.N. delegation of some 20 people out of Sanaa. He suffered a serious leg injury from shrapnel and lost a lot of blood, Harneis said. Immediately after the airstrikes, Harneis said, U.N. security officials moved the delegation out of the VIP building and into five armored cars where they waited for approximately 40 minutes to ascertain what happened and help the injured crew member. He was taken to a hospital in Sanaa and underwent four hours of surgery while the rest of the delegation spent the night in a U.N. compound, Harneis said. The U.N. plane with Tedros and the U.N. team, including the injured crew member, was able to depart for Jordan on Friday afternoon – without an operating control tower. The United Nations said the injured crew member was taken to a hospital in Jordan, and Tedros was heading back to Geneva, where WHO is based, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who control Sanaa and much of the country’s north, have gone after Israel since it started attacking Gaza following the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks by Gaza's Hamas militants on southern Israel. The Houthis have attacked ships in the Red Sea, disrupting one of the world’s main maritime routes, and recently stepped up missile and drone attacks on Israel . Israel has escalated its response. The Israeli army said it wasn’t aware that the WHO chief or U.N. delegation were at the Sanaa airport on Thursday. Israel said it bombed the airport because it is used by the Houthis and Iran. Harneis responded, stressing that the airport is civilian, not military, and is used for transporting U.N. and other humanitarian workers, and for one civilian flight — Yemenia to and from Amman, Jordan. The flight operates as a result of an international agreement, and thousands of Yemenis have used the flight to get advanced medical treatment abroad, he said. Yemen is the Arab world’s poorest nation and has been engulfed in a 10-year civil war between the Houthi rebels, who control Sanaa and much of the country's north, and the internationally recognized government forces in the south. Tedros was in the country to discuss its worsening humanitarian crisis and to seek the release of about 50 people detained by the Houthis since June from the U.N., nongovernmental organizations and civil society. Harneis said 18 million Yemenis — about half the country’s population — need humanitarian assistance this year, and the U.N. expects the number to increase to 19 million next year because of the worsening economy . In addition to airstrikes on the Sanaa airport, Israel has been attacking the country's key port of Hodeida, in western Yemen. Harneis said Yemen relies on imports through Hodeida for 80% of its food and more than 90% of its medical supplies to the north. A recent Israeli airstrike destroyed two tugboats and is estimated to have reduced the harbor's capacity by 50%, the U.N. official said, while damage from Thursday's airstrikes hasn't been assessed yet. As for the detainees, Harneis said he joined the WHO chief at meetings with the Houthi prime minister, foreign minister and a member of the group's Supreme Political Council. He said they received commitments on the detainees' possible release and a pathway to it, and on conditions under which they are being held.
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LOGAN ENERGY CORP. ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC MONTNEY ASSET ACQUISITION, $35 MILLION EQUITY OFFERING AND PRO FORMA GUIDANCE FOR THE REMAINDER OF 2024 AND 2025CoreNest Capital, Sologenic’s VC partner, invests in Texture, a U.S.-based broker-dealer, to ...Sir Keir Starmer said the season was a time to remember the importance of ‘being there for one another’ including in ‘the more difficult times’. Sir Keir Starmer said he would be looking towards a “better, brighter future for every person” in a Christmas message following a turbulent year for the UK. The Prime Minister said the season was a time to remember the importance of “being there for one another”, including in “the more difficult times”. He also expressed hope for “peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story” amid spiralling conflict across the region. The message comes after a challenging first five months in office for the Labour Government and against the backdrop of a flatlining economy and rising inflation. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, people will be travelling up and down the country. Heading home, visiting relatives and loved ones to celebrate together the hope and joy of this special season. “It’s a time to remind ourselves what’s really important. Family. Friendship. And fellowship between all people. “Being there for one another – in these celebrations, as well as the more difficult times.” The Prime Minister sought to strike an optimistic note following another year of political upheaval for Britain, which saw Labour win a landslide victory after a surprise election called by Rishi Sunak in the summer. After taking office in July, the new Government made a series of unpopular decisions as ministers confronted the realities of creaking public services and strained national finances. As well as dealing with the economic inheritance, Sir Keir said he needed to fix a “broken society” which manifested itself in summer riots across the country after the Southport knife attack. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, I will be hoping for peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story. “I’ll be looking towards a better, brighter future for every person and celebrating the joy and wonder that Christmas brings. “So, from my family to yours, I hope you have a very merry Christmas.” The message comes after revised official figures released on Monday indicated that UK gross domestic product (GDP) showed no growth between July and September. Downing Street defended the Government’s record so far when asked about the data, telling reporters: “We had to take those tough decisions to lay the foundations of growth such that we can then deliver the higher living standards over this Parliament that people want to see.” The Prime Minister also used his message to thank those spending Christmas serving others, including in the NHS and emergency services, the armed forces, churches and charities. “I know that this is not an easy time for everyone, and my thoughts are with all those who are lonely this Christmas. “Having a tough time, missing a loved one. You are not alone,” he said. Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch said Christmas was a time to reflect on “all that’s happened in the year” and “support all of those people who need our assistance”. “I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone, not just in the Conservative Party or in my constituency, but across the country,” the Tory leader said. “For all that you have been doing in your communities, supporting each other and helping to keep all our towns, villages and places going. “I think that Christmas is a time for us to reflect on all that’s happened in the year. “Sometimes we have amazing years. “Sometimes, like when I lost my dad, we have difficult years and we’re commiserating, but we do it together. “But it’s a time for us to support all of those people who need our assistance, who need our help, who need our support.” She added: “And I’m looking forward to 2025. “I wish you all the very best for the New Year and all of the exciting things to come.” Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: “This year, I’ve had the chance to spend time with some amazing young carers. “Incredible young people who will spend this Christmas doing what they do all year round; looking after loved ones who are ill or disabled. “Carers embody the Christmas spirit of love, selflessness and generosity. “So I hope we can all take some time to think of them, and keep them in our hearts. “And wish them – and everyone – a Christmas full of peace, joy and love.”
OKLAHOMA VOICE: DOJ special counsel Smith drops federal criminal cases against TrumpPro Picks is a weekly column where AP Pro Football Writer Rob Maaddi shares his picks for upcoming games. For all previous Pro Picks, head here . A potential Super Bowl preview and the battle for Pennsylvania bragging rights highlight the NFL’s Week 15 schedule. The NFC-leading Detroit Lions (12-1) put their 11-game winning streak on the line when they host the AFC East champion Buffalo Bills (10-3) on Sunday. Intrastate and interconference rivals meet when the Pittsburgh Steelers (10-3) visit the Philadelphia Eagles (11-2). Those two games feature four of the league’s six teams with double-digit wins through 14 weeks. Pro Picks selects a full slate of games as the NFL has completed the bye portion of its schedule for the remainder of the regular season. Line: Chargers minus 3 The banged-up Buccaneers beat three last-place teams in a row to move into first place in the NFC South. They’re going to need to rely on Baker Mayfield and the offense with several injuries to key players on defense. But Mayfield has to protect the ball better. Justin Herbert and the Chargers came close against Kansas City, but lost another game by three points or fewer. Los Angeles is giving up a league-low 15.9 points per game. BEST BET: CHARGERS: 23-17 Line: Lions minus 1 1/2 Josh Allen threw three touchdown passes and ran for three scores and the Bills still lost last week, a big blow to their hopes of securing the AFC’s No. 1 seed. The Lions can’t afford to lose because the Vikings and Eagles are right behind them in the race for the NFC’s top spot. Three of Detroit’s past five wins have been by three points. The Lions have a depleted defense that could be exploited by Allen. UPSET SPECIAL: BILLS: 30-27 Line: 49ers minus 2 1/2 The jumbled NFC West is still up for grabs, but the 49ers have no margin for error on Thursday night. With a banged-up backfield, Brock Purdy has stepped up. Now, Deebo Samuel needs to get going. The inconsistent Rams are coming off an impressive win over the Bills. They’re 6-1 straight up in the past seven division games and are 5-2 against the spread in the past seven games this season. The Niners are 4-10 ATS in their past 14 home games. 49ERS: 24-20 Line: Chiefs minus 4 Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs keep winning games in the final minute. They are 0-7 against the spread in the past seven games overall. Kansas City is the superior team, but the Browns have played better than their record. Jameis Winston has made them a formidable opponent. This could be the week the Chiefs don’t have to sweat it out, though. CHIEFS: 24-18 Line: Bengals minus 5 Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase are playing great football. It’s too bad they won’t be playing important games in January. The Titans have struggled to score points, but their defense often keeps things close. It helps Tennessee that Cincinnati is coming off a short week after a road win Monday night in Dallas. BENGALS: 24-16 Line: Commanders minus 7 1/2 Jayden Daniels and the offense got back on track before taking a bye. The Commanders are holding onto the final wild-card spot and can’t overlook the Saints with tough games upcoming. The Saints are clinging to slim playoff hopes and Derek Carr is hurt again. COMMANDERS: 23-17 Line: Ravens minus 15 The Ravens are coming off a bye after losing to Philadelphia and Justin Tucker’s kicking is one of the team’s biggest areas of concern. It won’t come down to a field goal against the woeful Giants, who turn back to Tommy DeVito. RAVENS: 33-13 Line: Panthers minus 2 1/2 Bryce Young nearly led the Panthers to an upset of the Eagles if not for a dropped pass. Carolina came close against the Chiefs and Buccaneers, too. Now, they’re favorites against the Cowboys, whose slim playoff hopes took a big hit with a loss to the Bengals. The Panthers look ready to close to the deal. PANTHERS: 22-20 Line: Jets minus 3 1/2 Aaron Rodgers and the Jets are favorites in a matchup of two teams that have failed miserably to live up to high expectations. Mac Jones makes another start for the injured Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars seek their first two-game winning streak of the season. JETS: 23-16 Line: Texans minus 3 Tua Tagovailoa has been outstanding since returning from a concussion and the Dolphins have to keep winning to stay in playoff contention. The Texans are coming off a much-needed bye hoping key players got healthy. Giving the ball to Joe Mixon has helped Houston’s offense get going with the offensive line having issues protecting C.J. Stroud. TEXANS: 24-23 Line: Broncos minus 3 1/2 Bo Nix and the Broncos have a three-game winning streak that’s put them in position to earn a wild-card berth. The Colts need a victory to have any playoff shot. Both teams had an extra week to prepare after a bye. Denver is 6-0 ATS as a favorite this season and an NFL-best 10-3 ATS overall this season. BRONCOS: 24-18 Line: Eagles minus 5 There’s drama in Philly despite nine straight wins. Everything will be fine if Jalen Hurts throws a few more passes to A.J. Brown this week and the passing game steps up. The Steelers are No. 4 against the run so Saquon Barkley’s quest to break Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record could hit a detour. But Pittsburgh is 17th vs. the pass so there’s an opportunity for Hurts and Brown to get in sync. Russell Wilson is 6-1 since taking over as the starter, but the Steelers have a tough stretch coming against the Eagles, Ravens and Chiefs. EAGLES: 22-20 Line: Cardinals minus 6 1/2 A three-game losing streak has knocked the Cardinals out of a playoff position. The lowly Patriots should be a welcome opponent for Kyler Murray and Co. New England has kept it close in several games, going 2-5 in one-score games. CARDINALS: 24-16 Line: Packers minus 3 The streaky Seahawks have won four straight to take over first place in the NFC West after losing four of five. Zach Charbonnet had a career game last week to balance an offense that relies on Geno Smith’s arm. The good news for the Packers is they’re playing a non-division opponent. Green Bay is 1-3 against the NFC North and 8-1 vs. everyone else. This could be a potential playoff preview because the Packers are going to go the wild-card route. PACKERS: 27-20 Line: Vikings minus 6 1/2 Sam Darnold is having an excellent season and the Vikings have won six in a row to stay hot on Detroit’s trail in the NFC North and for the No. 1 seed. The Bears fired their coach after three losses by a field goal or less. Then they were blown out at home by the 49ers and are 0-6 on the road. VIKINGS: 26-16 Line: Falcons minus 4 1/2 Kirk Cousins is struggling and the Falcons have lost four in a row to fall behind the Buccaneers in the NFC South. But the schedule gets easier with three of the final four games against teams that are 7-22. The Raiders should be playing for the No. 1 pick in the draft. FALCONS: 26-19 Last week: Straight up: 9-4. Against spread: 6-6-1. Overall: Straight up: 143-75. Against spread: 111-94-3. Prime-time: Straight up: 34-12. Against spread: 24-21-1. Best Bet: Straight up: 9-5. Against spread: 8-6. Upset Special: Straight up: 7-7. Against spread: 7-7. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
Aussie singer and has shared with fans that he's currently in rehab after being readmitted for the fifth time. The shared a heartbreaking video on Boxing Day saying he felt "embarrassed" to be posting the update, but that he's committed to sharing his journey. "It's hard to find the words for how disappointed I am in myself right now and the shame I'm feeling. This isn't how I wanted to spend my Christmas but I'm grateful to be in a safe place," Jack, 27, captioned the video. "This is a really hard time of year for so many. Please hold each other tightly and check in on those you think may be struggling. I feel embarrassed to be posting this but also am committed to sharing my journey, even through the slip-ups. Relapse is part of recovery." In his video, Jack addressed his social media absence, saying he felt a lot of "shame and guilt" about relapsing. “I relapsed about three weeks ago and I’m back in rehab. It’s Boxing Day today, the day after Christmas and I just wanted to give you an update about where I’m at,” he said. “I know I’ve been MIA on socials for a few weeks and that’s why. I don’t have a whole lot to say, I feel a lot of shame and guilt and I don’t really have the words right now." He also disclosed that he's started going through withdrawals “Withdrawals are starting now, it’s f**king hectic. So, that’s where I’m at. But I love you, and thank you always for the support," he said. Many people left supportive comments for Jack on TikTok and Instagram, including some other famous faces. "A relapse does not erase your success at being sober. Recovery is there, just start again with this new knowledge about yourself. Sending love," one fan commented. "No shame, Jack. This is a one day at a time!!!!! We will get there," star Colin Fassnidge said. "Respect for you. You can do this," Aussie singer Tones and I wrote, with Aussie Actress commenting, "Sending you all my love babe, one day at a time, you got this." "New start bro! I’ve had a fair few of these. New day we start again, you will look back one day and think there goes a few years! You will get a year, 10 years, rest of your life, keep up what you’re already doing with your sober peers and I promise you will get there," former Bachelor Jed McIntosh commented. "I’ve had a few set backs and the main thing is making the decision to reset which you have! I learnt something new and became stronger through my setbacks. Praying for you and the best is yet to come in your life." The singer, who was propelled to fame in 2011 at the age of 14 after winning , has also been open about his issues with alcohol abuse over the years, checking into a rehab facility in 2020. At one point he said he 'essentially overdosed' and then stayed sober for six months. “I’ve never been an alcoholic, but it always starts (with alcohol) for me, and it doesn’t end there," he said. In an Instagram Q&A last year, Jack said the music industry had left him 'traumatised'. “I’m kind of traumatised by the industry and really lost my love for it all again,” he said. “It’s slowly coming back though." The singer previously told magazine that he fell out of love with singing, citing burnout as a reason. "I stopped singing five years ago," he said in the 2019 interview. “I think I just burnt out."
Bill Clinton is hospitalized with a fever but in good spirits, spokesperson saysFantasy: Week 13 Rankings - Kickers (Updated) - theScore