Stock market today: Wall Street’s rally stalls as Nasdaq pulls back from its recordCousins Properties Announces Pricing of Senior Notes Offering
A November 2024 article called “ The Changing Landscape of Power Generation & Decarbonization Pathways “ offers several insights into ways that the grid is quickly evolving due to the increased adoption of renewable and other energy sources. Here’s a synthesis of the findings from authors René Leven, Aravind Rajagopal, and John Crane. What is power generation? Power generation is a term used to describe electricity production using different types of technology. It transforms diverse energy sources into the electricity that powers homes, industries, and technologies. How has power generation changed over the last century? Some sources such as steam boilers are more than a hundred years old. Power generation has been historically dominated by fossil fuels like coal and natural gas. What’s new on the power generation front? Today this industry also harnesses nuclear energy and an expanding array of renewable resources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. How is power generation changing? More countries around the world are turning to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. That has reshaped the methods of producing electricity. The day when renewable energy surpasses fossil fuels is within sight, and power generation, driven by technology advancements and supportive policy decisions, will be an important transformational element in overall global decarbonization. What do the numbers from 2023 tell us? In 2023, the global energy mix for electricity generation reflected a growing shift toward cleaner, low-emission technologies, with 39% of global power generation coming from low-emission sources. This includes 9% from nuclear power and 30% from renewables such as solar, wind and hydroelectric power. How prominent were fossil fuels for power generation in 2023? Fossil fuels — especially coal — still dominate the global energy mix, although their share is steadily declining. Natural gas is growing in importance, particularly in regions like the United States. Which renewables are growing the fastest? Wind and solar power have experienced the fastest growth among renewables. That’s because they’ve become more cost-competitive over the past decade, largely due to technological improvements, economies of scale, and government incentives. What’s the forecast ahead to 2026? The share of low-emission sources is expected to rise to 46%, with renewables making up 37% of total generation. Wind and solar will lead the way, and other technologies such as bioenergy and geothermal power will gain prominence. What’s the role of investing to support renewable power generation? As the global energy mix shifts toward low-emission sources, significant investments are required to modernize infrastructure and ensure the reliability of power generation. This includes upgrading transmission grids and expanding energy storage systems to support the integration of variable renewable energy sources like wind and solar. How much work does grid infrastructure need? The grids today were originally designed for centralized fossil fuel-based power generation. They must be upgraded to accommodate decentralized and variable renewable energy sources. Large-scale transmission grid enhancements are necessary to connect renewable energy sources located in remote areas to demand centers. How crucial is establishing energy storage systems? Intermittency inherent in renewable energy sources like wind and solar can lead to frequency imbalances in the grid. That means significant investments in energy storage systems are needed to ensure a consistent power supply. Battery energy storage systems (BESS) and long-duration energy storage (LDES) technologies enable the storage of excess renewable energy for use during periods of low generation. What can be done to decarbonize fossil fuel power generation pathways? The authors point to technologies such as carbon capture, hydrogen-ready turbines, and ammonia co-firing. As the world undergoes this energy transition, engineering advancements and specialized sealing technologies will play a vital role in ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of both renewable and fossil fuel power generation systems. The energy transition presents an opportunity for the industry to drive innovation and ensure a sustainable, low-carbon future for power generation worldwide. Of course, progress in achieving carbon reduction targets will depend mainly on global efforts to address energy security and meet climate commitments. So, too, will identifying and stabilizing alternatives pathways to lower the carbon footprint of fossil fuel assets, “extending their operational life while aligning with global climate goals.” Reducing Scope 3 emissions: A group of transportation industry veterans has launched Scope23 , a technology company dedicated to making sustainability achievable for shippers and transportation service providers. Scope23 designs supply chain and logistics solutions focused exclusively on helping companies reduce their emissions footprint, providing AI-powered recommendations that help companies reduce scope 3 emissions. Scope23, which is receiving initial funding from Schneider and Pilot Company, intends to fill the gap for shippers and carriers with a platform that operationalizes carbon accounting into existing transportation and purchasing procedures. As reported by Yahoo! finance , Scope23, based in Chicago, began publicly showcasing its product and growing network of investors, partners, and customers at the Verge 2024 Conference held this October in San Jose. Hard-to-abate sectors of steel and cement: During COP29’s Technology Day on Transformative Industry, policy and technology innovations that can deliver rapid, impactful emission reductions in heavy industries were the focus. Steel , cement , chemicals , and petrochemicals alone contribute about 70% of industry-related emissions. Only a fraction of national climate plans, known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs), include emission reduction targets in the industrial sector. During the event, examples were showcased of technology developed to decarbonize production processes. The TEC also launched its latest policy brief providing actionable guidance to integrate hard-to-abate industries into national climate targets, in alignment with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C goal. The resulting policy brief outlines a possible pathway toward decarbonizing the steel and cement sectors: highlights the need for transforming hard-to-abate industries (steel, cement, chemicals) to significantly reduce GHG emissions and meet the 1.5°C Paris Agreement goal; encourages targeted policies for decarbonizing hard-to-abate industries through electrification and renewable energy; identifies zero- and low-emission technologies like hydrogen-based steelmaking, electric boilers, and CCS as essential to reducing industrial GHG emissions; emphasizes tracking progress through clear roadmaps and robust MRV systems aligned with IPCC guidelines; recommends collaborative efforts among industries, governments, and financial institutions to accelerate the deployment of zero- and low-emission technologies; and, stresses the importance of international support, cooperation, and knowledge sharing for innovation, technology transfer, and capacity-building, including through South-South and Triangular cooperation. 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Opposition fighters are at Damascus' gates. Who are they and what now?NFL NOTESLegit.ng journalist Esther Odili has over two years of experience covering political parties and movements. CHECK OUT: Don't let unemployment hold you back. Start your digital marketing journey today. The former governor of Niger state, Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu , has said that to protect the security personnel, Nigeria must formulate a policy that stipulates the death penalty for anyone who kills uniform personnel. He stated this at the National Institute of Security Studies (NISS), in Abuja during a graduation ceremony for members of the Executive Intelligence Management Course (EIMC), 17. According to Aliyu, the death penalty measure would encourage security personnel. As reported by Leadership on Saturday, December 7, the former governor stressed that patriotism must be taken to the highest level. PAY ATTENTION : Standing out in social media world? Easy! "Mastering Storytelling for Social Media" workshop by Legit.ng. Join Us Live! The two-time governor, spoke while reacting to the death of over 30 soldiers in Niger state in 2023. He wondered why anyone would threaten and kill personnel while on duty and still go free. Aliyu said: Read also Tobi Adegboyega: UK judges explain why Nigerian-born pastor's deportation was approved “I am happy that the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa is here. Although, they say the CDS or the military are not involved in issues of policies. But let me say this; I have not seen any country where about 38 soldiers would be killed and there will be deafening silence afterwards. I want to recommend that anybody that kills uniform person must die.” However, to buttress the former governor's assertion, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu , who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, stated that all those threatening Nigeria’s peace must be brought to book whether they are in the country or abroad. PAY ATTENTION : Legit.ng Needs Your Opinion! That's your chance to change your favourite news media. Fill in a short questionnaire Source: Legit.ng
Syrian government forces withdraw from central city of Homs as insurgent offensive acceleratesCousins Properties Announces Pricing of Senior Notes OfferingGeorgia loses QB Carson Beck (arm) during SEC title game
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Anti-fraud efforts meet real-world test during ACA enrollment period
Presenters Amanda Holden and Alan Carr led the stars arriving at the 2024 Royal Variety Performance, hours after the Queen pulled out due to lingering symptoms from a chest infection. The King is scheduled to attend the show at London’s Royal Albert Hall on Friday which will see Sir Elton John and his husband David Furnish present a musical number from their new show The Devil Wears Prada – based on the 2006 Oscar-nominated film. Cast members Vanessa Williams, who plays Miranda Priestly, and Matt Henry, who stars as art director Nigel, were among those posing on the red carpet ahead of the performance which showcases an original score by Sir Elton. The variety show will also see debuts from British singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor with her hit track Murder On The Dancefloor while Eurovision winner Nemo is also featured on the bill. Also posing on the carpet were US magicians and comedy duo Penn and Teller, whose performance marks their 50th anniversary. Comedy will come from Ted Lasso star Ellie Taylor, writer and comic Scott Bennett, Scottish comedian Larry Dean and political comic Matt Forde – who posed on the red carpet with a crutch after undergoing surgery for cancer on his spine. Among the arrivals was TV presenter Lorraine Kelly, who will make an appearance in this year’s show with her Change And Check Choir led by Wet Wet Wet singer Marti Pellow. The choir, made up of women from across the UK who detected their breast cancer through Kelly’s campaign, will perform Love Is All Around, which is being re-released to raise awareness of breast cancer early detection. It comes hours after Camilla insisted the “show must go on” after pulling out of attending the performance on Friday evening as doctors advised that she should prioritise rest. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: “Following a recent chest infection, the Queen continues to experience some lingering post-viral symptoms, as a result of which doctors have advised that, after a busy week of engagements, Her Majesty should prioritise sufficient rest. “With great regret, she has therefore withdrawn from attendance at tonight’s Royal Variety Performance. His Majesty will attend as planned.” A royal source said the Queen was “naturally disappointed to miss the evening’s entertainments and sends her sincere apologies to all those involved, but is a great believer that ‘the show must go on'”. “She hopes to be back to full strength and regular public duties very soon,” the source added. The Royal Variety Performance will air on ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player in December. Money raised from the show will go to help people from the world of entertainment in need of care and assistance, with the Royal Variety Charity launching an initiative to help those with mental health issues this year.Published 4:48 pm Sunday, November 24, 2024 By Data Skrive Ranked teams are on Monday’s college basketball schedule in 10 games, including the Duke Blue Devils taking on the Kansas State Wildcats. Watch women’s college basketball, other live sports and more on Fubo. What is Fubo? Fubo is a streaming service that gives you access to your favorite live sports and shows on demand. Use our link to sign up for a free trial. Catch tons of live women’s college basketball , plus original programming, with ESPN+ or the Disney Bundle.LA Galaxy win record 6th MLS Cup
GREEN LAKE, Wis. (AP) — A Wisconsin man who faked his own drowning this summer and left his wife and three children has been located in Eastern Europe and is communicating with law enforcement, but he has not committed to returning home, authorities said. Ryan Borgwardt began communicating with authorities Nov. 11, after they tracked him down, Green Lake County Sheriff Mark Podoll said Thursday. The sheriff showed a video that Borgwardt sent police that day from an undisclosed location. The sheriff said no charges have been filed and that he doesn't think they will be necessary while authorities “keep pulling at his heartstrings” to come home. Here are some things to know about Borgwardt and his disappearance: Borgwardt, who is in his mid-40s, lived with his wife and children in Watertown, a city of about 23,000 people northwest of Milwaukee that is known for its German heritage, parochial schools and two dams on the Rock River. The sheriff has said his department was told Aug. 12 that Borgwardt had not been heard from since the previous day, when he traveled about 50 miles (80 kilometers) from home to Green Lake to go kayaking. Borgwardt’s wife said he texted her at 10:49 p.m. to say he was heading to shore. Deputies found Borgwardt’s vehicle and trailer near Green Lake. His kayak was discovered on the lake, overturned and with a life jacket attached to it, in an area where the water is about 200 feet (60 meters) deep. An angler later found Borgwardt’s fishing rod. The search for his body continued for more than 50 days, with divers scouring the lake on several occasions. Clues — including that he reported his passport lost or stolen and obtained a new one a few months before he disappeared — led investigators to speculate that he made it appear that he had drowned to go meet a woman he had been communicating with in the Central Asian country of Uzbekistan. Podoll declined to comment when asked what he knew about the woman, but he said law enforcement contacted Borgwardt “through a female that spoke Russian.” His identity was confirmed through asking him questions that the sheriff said only Borgwardt would know and by a video he made and sent them Nov. 11. He has spoken with someone from the sheriff's department almost daily since. However Podoll said Thursday that Borgwardt's exact location in Eastern Europe was not known. Podoll said Chief Deputy Matt Vande Kolk has been the one communicating with Borgwardt and their conversations have all taken place via email. Vande Kolk told The Associated Press in an email Friday that authorities are trying to determine Borgwardt's exact location. But that might not be easy even with modern surveillance technology. Scott Shackelford, executive director of the Center for Applied Cybersecurity Research at Indiana University, said authorities should be able to locate Borgwardt through his device's internet protocol address, a unique number assigned to every device connected to the internet. But he said it's very easy to mask an IP address and make it appear as if the device is in one country when it's really in another. Software exists that can route your IP address across the globe, Shackelford said. Police may not have the expertise, the manpower or any interest in digging through multiple layers of cyber deception, he said. Wearing an orange T-shirt, Borgwardt, unsmiling, looks directly at the camera, apparently filmed on a cellphone. Borgwardt says he is in his apartment and briefly pans the camera, but mostly shows a door and bare walls. “I’m safe and secure, no problem,” he says. Borgwardt has told authorities he overturned his kayak on the lake, dumped his phone in it and paddled an inflatable boat to shore. He told authorities he chose Green Lake because it is Wisconsin's deepest at 237 feet (over 72 meters). He then rode an electric bike stashed by a boat launch about 70 miles (110 kilometers) through the night to Madison, the sheriff said. From there, by Borgwardt's account, he traveled by bus to Detroit and then Canada, where he boarded a plane. Police are still verifying Borgwardt’s description of what happened, Podoll said. Borgwardt faked his death and fled because of “personal matters,” thinking it was the right thing to do, the sheriff said. Investigators found that he took out a $375,000 life insurance policy in January for his family. “He was just going to try and make things better in his mind, and this was the way it was going to be,” Podoll said. Borgwardt has not yet decided to return home, and if he does it will be of his own free will, according to Podoll. Deputies are stressing to him the importance of returning home and cleaning up the mess he made. The sheriff suggested that Borgwardt could be charged with obstructing the investigation into his disappearance, but so far no counts have been filed. The search for Borgwardt, which lasted more than a month, is said to have cost at least $35,000. Borgwardt told authorities that he did not expect the search to last more than two weeks, Podoll said, and his biggest concern is how the community will react to him if he returns. This story was updated to correct the spelling of Scott Shackelford’s last name, which had been misspelled “Shackleford.” Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly!Governor Idris’ Emergence as Gwarzo of the Caliphate1. A copy of Subpar Parks: America's Most Extraordinary National Parks and Their Least Impressed Visitors filled with a ton of hilarious 1-star reviews of national parks that, somehow, might make them want to get out there and explore 'em all. Promising review: "Without a doubt, this is my favorite coffee table book and surprisingly also super educational. Perfect combination of sassy and informative while poking fun at 1-star reviews of some amazing national parks. I love, love all the added educational snippets along with the review illustrations. And Amber’s writing style is so personal and relatable that I feel like we could be friends. Such a fun book, so worth the buy!" — Anna Get it from Amazon for $16.59 . 2. A "Through The Seasons" Reverse Coloring Book , which is a newer edition of the fan favorite Reverse Coloring Book — perfect for anyone who is tired of coloring *inside* the lines and needs more of a challenge — in this scenario they'll be the one to draw the lines around the colors on the page! Basically, instead of adding the color to these, you draw lines to create images within the colors. Fun! Pair it with these fabulous black fine point pens for $9.99 on Amazon to complete the gift. Promising review : "Kendra Norton’s beautiful art books, Reverse Coloring books, have changed my world! My whole life, I thought I was not creative and, therefore, had zero artistic ability. Now this has become my favorite form of artistic expression. I turn on music and/or an audiobook and allow myself to go for an adventure outside of my mind, beyond my mind, if you will. T his has become my favorite way to process through difficult emotions and experiences I’m working through ." — K. DeWitt Get it from Amazon for $8.29 . 3. A bag of Reindeer Farts cotton candy because how could anyone not crack a smile from something as silly as this??? It's also made from a small business that donates 10% of all profits to charities that bring toys to kids in need — now *that* is worthy smiling about. Little Stinker is a small business. Promising review: " This was absolutely the best stocking stuffer of all this past year! Everyone, young and old, loved it! The laughs were many and the cotton candy inside was so good! Awesome product! I will buy again." — Peggy N Get it from Amazon for $8.95 . 4. A shaker of Thin Mint seasoning for your bestie who perks up at the mere mention of Girl Scout cookie season — now they'll be able to indulge in their favorite flavor whenever the mood strikes. BuzzFeed editor Emma Lord loves this stuff: "I stared at this for months online before caving and buying it, and when I tell you!! It jazzes up my morning coffee in a way that makes my little '90s baby heart sing. I've also loved it on Greek yogurt, oatmeal, and mug cakes. Plus, when I am feeling lonely for a real Thin Mint, and we're not in Girl Scout cookie season, I'll shake this on an Oreo Thin to stave off the despair." Get it from Amazon for $4.98 (and try their s'mores seasoning blend, too!). 5. Disney: Cooking With Magic: A Century of Recipes , a cookbook inspired by 100 years of Disney movies. The recipes will take them on a magical journey from 1928 ( Steamboat Willie !) all the way to 2023 ( Wish !) and everything in between. BRB, need to go get all the ingredients for Tiana's "Big Daddy Beignets." Promising review: "A perfect gift for the Disney fan in your life! Very high quality pages showing recipes from Disney movies through the ages all the way up to 2023's Wish !" — J. R. Coutu Get it from Amazon for $25.99. 6. A mini Bob Ross paint-by-numbers kit for your BFF who insists on watching "The Joy of Painting" every night to soothe themselves to sleep. It comes with three pre-printed canvases, seven paint pots, a mini brush, and a mini easel (how cuuuuuute) to display their work of art when they're done. The kit's three paint-by-number canvases include two landscapes and one portrait of Bob. They'll also get an instruction sheet and a mini book all about Bob! Promising review: "I have to admit I was skeptical because of the price and size. However, I got these for my husband for his birthday (he loves Bob Ross) and What a find!! We had so much fun mixing colors and painting. Would definitely recommend. The fact that they are small makes them even more special. I wish there were more to paint!" — slb m Get it from Amazon for $7.99 . 7. An Instax Mini 7 camera bundle (including film) so you can snap pics of you and your loved ones exchanging gifts this holiday season then put 'em all together in an album as a keepsake. So fun! The bundles comes with a camera, 40 sheets of film, a carrying case, and a cute photo album. Promising review: "Good bundle and fun product. Pictures are classic look and won't be sharp (but hopefully that's not why you bought this). My partner and I use this to log a lot of our hikes and everyday cameos." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $129.95+ (available in five colors). 8. A dimmable sad duck night-light guaranteed to bring a smile to their face each time they glance down at it. He'll not-so-happily become their companion. (We all need one, honestly.) Promising review : "I ordered this lamp because of its appearance. I didn't NEED a depressed duck lamp ... but it has totally filled a void in my life I didn't know existed. Everyone who sees it pokes it. The lamp is actually very functional. It's got a really nice set of brightness options and the glow is yellowish, which is much nicer than white in a dim/dark room. One thing that isn't mentioned in the description is that its legs are utterly floppy. It's terrific." — Literated Get it from Amazon for $15.99 . 9. A tabletop USB-powered Super Mario Bros. Super Star tree for anyone looking to bring some holiday cheer to their gaming station. It'll also give you an excuse to make punny jokes like "It's ah-meeee, a Christmas tree!" or maybe that's just me... Promising review: "This little Super Mario Christmas tree is absolutely adorable. It’s perfect for any desk or shelf. It comes with lights already attached. You can always add mini ornaments if you wanted to. It’s perfectly cute without. It comes with a USB cord already attached. I definitely recommend this for any Super Mario fan." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $33.88 . 10. A Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas cross stitch kit so they can *~live like Jack and Sally if they want~* or at the very least add them into their home decor. This beginner's kit comes with thread, printed fabric, needle, step-by-step instructions, and a 3-inch plastic hoop, Get it from Amazon for $6.99 . 11. Crayola Globbles , a fun lil' toy they can use to burn off some steam in between meetings or when they just need a quick mental break. Don't worry, they won't leave residue on their walls. Promising review : " I waited over two months to write my review! My daughter is four and plays with these DAILY! YES, they do attract dirt and hair. HOWEVER, they are so easy to rinse off it's not a big deal! We took these to a family gathering and ended up giving two away because they were SO loved! The two we gave away went to a 12-year-old and my 19-year-old brother. They discovered throwing them at the ceiling fan and watching them shoot across the room, which was pretty entertaining! None of these have busted or ripped, and they are definitely NOT gentle with them! I will definitely be buying more! " — Kindle Customer Get a pack of six from Amazon for $11.65 . 12. A set of custom stickers you'll be able to make of whoever you want — your pet, your own face, Harry Styles, the list goes on and on. And all you have to do is click 'Customize Now' and then upload a well-lit image! I bought these as a funny stocking stuffer for my husband a few years ago and it was a big hit. My Sticker Face is a small business. Promising review: "I think this might be one of the best things I've ever bought on Amazon. I bought one sheet for my mom for Christmas, and they just came. She hasn't seen them, but I know they'll crack her up. They look fantastic. I'll definitely buy more!!" — Claudia Basile Get it from Amazon for $15.99 . 13. Or a personalized straw topper that'll hilariously help them mark which cookie cutter tumbler is theirs — I'm begging you, please get one made of something extra silly like a cut out of *your* face or Nicolas Cage's. Promising review: "I was very surprised by the quality of the straw cover. I sent in a picture of my dog with the order, and it was cropped perfectly without compromising the quality of the image. Sooo cute!" — Kim Veliky Get it from Amazon for $4.99 . 14. A " Liquipen " for anyone who grew up with a lava lamp but knows setting one up at their desk probably isn't *ideal*. Watching the little blobs float up and down will ease their mind and give them a chance to regroup before diving back into a project. Promising review: "I broke up the three-pack and gave one pen as a gift for a class gift exchange and put the other two in stockings for Christmas. Good quality and approved by both the 8-year-old and 49-year-old husband who is a kid at heart! Definitely recommend." — Kindle Customer Get a set of three from Amazon for $17.99 . 15. Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza — a card game they can play with their squad (turn it into a drinking game?!) on cold nights or even at the beach when the weather is warm. You deal all the cards out to your two to four players, and everyone keeps their mini-deck face down. Everyone takes a turn putting a card down in the middle of the table, saying one of the words "taco," "cat," "goat," "cheese," and "pizza," in that order. If the picture on your card matches the word that's said, everyone slaps their hand on the card in a pile as quickly as possible. The last person on the pile has to take the stack and add 'em to their cards, and whoever runs out of cards first wins! Additionally, this game comes from a small business! Get it from Amazon for $9.95 or check out the festive version Santa Cookie Elf Candy Snowman (we love a theme!). 16. A toothpaste cap for anyone who typically wakes up singing "Somebooooody once told me the world was gonna roll me" a la one of the greatest soundtracks of all time... Shrek . CasualChicken is a small business based in Irvine, California that sells an array of unique 3D printed items. Promising review: "My order came well packaged and on time. Gifted it to my friend and she thinks it is hilarious." — Grace Get it from CasualChicken on Etsy for $11.99 . 17. A Michael Scott reversible dishwasher magnet that'll make loading/unloading just a bit more fun — I dare them not to giggle to themselves while thinking about what unfathomable things "Prison Mike" might shout about their dishes. Promising review : "My whole family is a fan of The Office , so when I was searching for a magnet we could use on our dishwasher, this was the hands-down winner. Does it go with my farmhouse decor? Nope, not at all. But it does get the attention of two teenage boys. Had I gone with something a bit more my decor style, I can guarantee you it would not be as useful. I mean, we all would much rather see Prison Mike staring back at us than suit and tie Michael Scott, right? And there is only one way for that to happen...clean out the dishwasher!" — R. Funk Get it from Amazon for $8.99 . 18. A set of quirky cat-themed hair clips , so fun they'll want to start planning all of their outfits around them. Everyone's going to want to know where they got these playful accessories. Promising review: "Super cute, holds all my curly hair well, good size!" — Elizabeth Blank Get a set of four from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in four styles). 19. A teensy version of Atari that'll transport them right back to the '80s — a perfect gift whether they actually lived through that iconic gaming era or simply wish they did. Promising review: "I've put probably 10 hours in playing with this little system . It's an excellent little Atari clone, the screen is crystal clear, the games play exactly as expected , the sound is great the controller is a joy. This is an absolute must for anyone who loves retro games." — Doug Welyczko Get it from Amazon for $25.95 . 20. A bookmark book tracker that'll motivate them to actually settle down and read the novel their book club decided on for this month. After they finish a book they can add the title into the spine on the bookmark and color it in — adorable. This shop also offers other versions of the bookmark themed around zodiac signs, very gift-worthy! Britishbookart is a small business based in the UK that sells paintings of literary characters, like Belle from Beauty and the Beast (my personal fave) and Arya from Game of Thrones , as well as reading trackers and bookmarks. Get it from britishbookart on Etsy for $3.92 and check out the zodiac versions here. 21. Murdle, Volume 1 , a compilation of murder mystery–themed logic puzzles that are reminiscent of the ever-popular Wordle game. This version will encourage your pal to use powers of deduction and a variety of clues to solve the mysteries throughout the book. Sherlock Holmes, who? There are 100 puzzles total, and four different levels of difficulty to tackle —each puzzle features a logic grid to help you solve it! Promising review: "The puzzles are a lot of fun but the characters, story lines, and other details take the Murdle experience to another level. I have no idea how the author came up with all of this creativeness! You can Murdle solo or with friends. I look forward to future volumes but this one will keep me busy for awhile!" — Liz Gately Get it from Amazon for $12.99 . If you want to keep the fun going you can *also* snag Murdle: Volume 2 and Murdle: Volume 3 for more puzzling. 22. A hilarious and random "screaming goat" button they can slap every few hours to keep their coworkers on their toes. Who wouldn't love THAT? Novelty888 is a small business that specializes in delightfully and oddly specific talking buttons. Promising review: "Got this for my wife to keep on her desk. She said it’s been a big hit in the office! If she or her coworkers are having a tough time, this lightens the mood with just the press of a button." — Daniel Get it from Amazon for $17.99 . 23. A Calico Critters keychain that'll leave your bestie cackling and forever thinking about those unhinged staged dramas you send each other back and forth on TikTok (IYKYK). If you're not already in on this very niche TikTok trend, please indulge yourself . Promising review: "The absolute cutest thing to hang on your keys or bags. I bought each one available because I couldn’t decide. They are just that cute. Highly recommend!" — Autumn12 Get it from Urban Outfitters for $14 (available in four styles). 24. A Taylor Swift lyric–inspired coloring book which will have their brain screaming "Drop everything now!" a la "Sparks Fly." It has 45 intricate pages to color that are loosely designed to follow the Eras tour in order. (Genius!) Don't forget to snag a fresh colored pencil set on Amazon for $11.99! Promising review : "I never thought I would enjoy adult coloring as much as I do with this book. It provides many opportunities to be creative, mix colors, be whimsical, and enjoy the lyrics." — Sherry Get it from Amazon for $9.99 . 25. And an updated version of the Taylor Swift Little Golden Book fans will take one look and say I'm "enchanted to meet you." The new *~style~* comes with 22 (ooOoOh ooOoOh) bonus pages including stickers and fill-in-the-blank activities. You might find see a lil' Travis cameo within. 😉 I have this book (as pictured above) and by that I mean the second I saw it available for pre-order I added it to my cart faster than you could say "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together." As the parent of a 2-year-old and a 6-month-old, I have many Little Golden Books in my home. However, this one is just STUNNING. I'm a big fan of Taylor (obviously) but was really enamored by how beautiful the pages in the first version was — so, naturally, I had to get the updated version! It's a short book, looks cute on my daughter's shelf, and is a hit for bedtime story time with my son who has, ahem, been mildly encouraged to *also* love Taylor Swift. What more could you want??? Get it from Amazon for $8.78 . Note: If they're a diehard Taylor fan here are some other book options they might enjoy: The Story of Taylor Swift: An Inspiring Biography for Young Readers You Are Fearless: A Book for the Littlest Taylor Swift Fans Let's Meet Taylor: Story of the Superstar Taylor Swift Taylor Swift Style: Fashion Through the Eras 26. Bullseye microfleece pajama pants , because there are few things as beautiful as stepping into warm, cozy PJs adorned with the icon of your favorite Target mascot. My best friend and I bought these for each other for Christmas, including the matching top . Shopping at Target is basically the only hobby I've got these days. 😅 Promising review: "The Bullseye print on the pants is so cute! They are soft and warm and a must have for the Target lover!" — boymom2 Get them from Target for $7 (available in unisex sizes XS–2XL) 27. French Truck Coffee K-Cups they can easily pop into their Keurig machine to take their tastebuds on a trip to New Orleans — I can't think of a better way to start the day. This blend is made in small batches and packed with that chicory flavor anyone who has sipped a cup o' Joe in NOLA will recognize. French Truck Coffee is a small business based out of New Orleans that sells small-batch, fresh-roasted coffee. If K-cups aren't your thing you can also check out their whole bean options and their cold brew pods . Get a pack of 12 from French Coffee Truck for $17. 28. A carbonated bubble clay mask that starts to bubble once it's applied — get one for both of you to prepare for a fun night of selfies (all the while banishing blackheads). Promising review: "Wow! I purchased this on a whim after seeing one of my favorite YouTubers try it out. I didn't expect a lot from it. I tried it out and was shocked!!! The mask was simple (and fun) to use. I wasn't sure I felt a lot happening while it was on, but it was pretty cool how the bubbles started to grow off of my face. Upon inspection after using this mask I was completely amazed. My face felt cleaner than it has in a very long time AND my pores looked amazing! I don't remember a time when I felt like my pores looked great before using this mask. I would highly recommend this mask to anyone. It's also so much cheaper than the GlamGlow ones I have been using (and didn't see near these results from)." — Phil Textor Get it from Amazon for $8.65 . 29. An embroidered hat for the Bella to your Jacob — a gift that'll surely elicit some giggles from you both. Where'd U Get That Hat is a small business based in Washington, DC that sells embroidered hats. Promising review: "Every hat I've gotten from this seller has been awesome, 10/10." — Sabrina Jagielski Get it from Where'd U Get That Hat on Etsy for $25 (available in 17 hat colors and 11 thread colors). 30. A Mitzvah Moose (yes, you heard that right) with antlers that'll double as a Hanukkah menorah — if this doesn't turn your pal's frown upside down I'm not sure what will! This precious plush also comes with a cute picture book. You may have seen this adorable Moose on Shark Tank alongside the other Mensch on a Bench (a small business) products! Promising review: "I bought one for my grandson and before I clicked to buy my finger slipped 😉 and I ordered one for myself. I'm very happy with both of them." — Belle Get it from Amazon for $24.99 . 31. A Dracula garlic mincer that'll make even the most serious of chefs let out an audible laugh. Promising review: "I purchased this as a gift for my friend who is a fantastic cook — she uses fresh ingredients almost exclusively — but pressing fresh garlic is a task usually delegated. No longer — Gracula is there for her. She uses him nearly every time she needs garlic (which is basically daily) and, months later, still makes a point of saying how much she enjoys the gift. I'm pretty sure she likes it better than other gifts I've gotten her which were more expensive/thought out , and I'm fairly certain it's what took me from 'good friend' to 'best friend,' but it be that way sometimes. Anyway, definitely recommended for people who cook with garlic and have a sense of humor." — L Get it from Amazon for $9.94 . 32. A realistic Dr. Pepper can(dle ) for when they want to indulge in the scent of their favorite vice but it's a touch too early in the morning to crack open the real thing. Promising review: "I love this candle as it smells exactly like Dr. Pepper. This candle is the same exact size as the real soda can too! This is going to be the perfect Christmas gift for my friend." — Chrysanthemum Get it from Amazon for $26.99. 33. A reviewer-beloved ~croc~ veggie chopper they can use to dice onions in a flash — save the uncontrollable crying for the next Hallmark holiday movie. It can also spiralize, slice, and chop! Promising review: "I bought this as a gift for my husband, who loves cooking AND crocodiles! He loves it! Best of all, it works great too. We’ve used it so many times, and the blades are still sharp. It’s easy to use and clean. Love it!" — Niki Mitchell Get it from Amazon for $34.99 . 34. A light hearted "In This Economy?" candle featuring a lovely floral and amber woody fragrance and cheeky label that says: spent the rest of my non-existent savings on this." It'll surely give anyone a laugh while helping them decompress with it's soothing smell. Evil Queen is my all-time favorite small business, and my go-to shop for candles. They're woman-owned and sell all kinds of candles with fun labels that'll make you want to try 'em even if the scent isn't your typical go-to. Naturally, as a shopping editor, I *needed* this candle. The label makes me giggle and looks great on my desk while the scent is relaxing and helps me focus on my work. The sparkles on top are an added bonus, hehe. Get it from Evil Queen for $24 . 35. A hilarious 100-piece cat puzzle depicting them as graceful lil' ballerinas — I dare anyone not to dissolve into laughter just looking at the box. Promising review: "Whimsical picture, bright colors and easily lockable and uniquely shaped pieces. Very happy with this puzzle experience!" — Karen Bleizeffer Get it from Amazon for $19.99 . 36. And/or cat tarot cards that'll have your friend saying "are you kitten me?" when they open it and offer to give you a reading right on the spot. Promising review: "These cards are great! As someone who owns more than a couple of tarot decks, the card stock on these is superb for the price. This deck is friendly and has a very aesthetically pleasing color palate — even some of the darker cards of the deck are rather light hearted. The images themselves are fantastic, cute, colorful without overdoing it, and harmonious and for the most part true to the tarot and not too gimmicky. My only gripe is that the images don't always lend themselves to intuitive interpretation, however this deck comes with a guidebook so it's not that big of a turnoff. The guidebook itself is great and includes interpretations for upright and reversed cards. I haven't used it for a reading yet because i just got it today, but I am more than pleased with this purchase. If you like tarot and you also happen to like cats get this deck!" — A. Asher Get them from Amazon for $17.90 . 37. And a microwaveable hugging sloths filled with soothing lavender — who better to spend a cold wintry night with?! The pair breaks apart so they can share the love with their roommate when they're having a rough day. 🥹 My sister bought my son a Golden Retriever Warmies plush before he was born and it's recently become a staple in his collection of "crib friends." It smells incredible and is so soothing for bedtime. I love that they're weighted but not *too* heavy that I'd be worried to let him snuggle with it overnight. Promising review: "I have a sloth obsession so I'm adding these to my collection! Perfect size and absolutely adorable! Not sure I'll use them for warming, but I have other Warmies for that purpose!!" — Heather W. Get it from Warmies for $29.99 or Amazon for $26.95 . Some reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
No. 23 Texas A&M aims to hand Oregon first loss at Players EraSyrian president Bashar al-Assad’s regime is nearing collapse as rebel forces began to encircle Damascus. In the suburbs of the capital, were seen tearing down posters of Assad and a bust of his father, former president Hafez al-Assad. On Saturday, Syrian rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham [HTS] had reached the edges of Damascus, as thousands of pro-regime soldiers made a chaotic retreat into neighbouring Iraq. Syria’s rebels said on Saturday night that they have started entering the key city of Homs, while there were reports that government forces have been withdrawing. Syria’s state news agency denied earlier reports that , his close ally, claiming that he continued to govern from Damascus. “[We condemn] rumours and false news about President Bashar al-Assad leaving Damascus ... [Assad is] following up on his work and national and constitutional duties from the capital,” it said. Following the statement, a source told CNN that Assad was “nowhere to be found” at his usual residences in the capital. On Saturday night, HTS said a group of senior regime officials were negotiating over the terms of their defection. The Assad regime tried to reassure panicking residents by claiming it had “unbreakable” defences around the capital. Mohammed al-Rahmoun, the Syrian interior minister, told state TV that there was “a very strong security cordon on the outskirts of Damascus and no one can break it.” A spokesman for the Syrian army said it was reinforcing its lines “throughout the Damascus countryside” and carrying out operations in the “Hama and Homs countryside [in central Syria] and the northern Daraa countryside,” referring to areas under threat or already captured by the rebels. But residents of Damascus on Saturday began to flee the city and close their shops. “I’m very scared, for me and for my unborn daughter,” Rania, who is in her eighth month of pregnancy, told AFP. “I’ve been trying to buy medicine since this morning but I cannot find what I need.” Another resident said: “People are worried whether there will be a battle (in Damascus) or not,” adding that prices had rocketed amid panic-buying. On Saturday night a Syrian rebel commander, Hassan Abdul Ghany, said the rebels have also overrun an army camp and several villages near Homs, another key strategic city on the road to Damascus. and other rebel forces has sparked widespread predictions that the end could be near for Assad, who has ruled Syria with unparalleled brutality over the past 13 years. Russia and Iran, Assad’s closest allies, and Turkey on Saturday called for “dialogue” with rebel forces and a diplomatic solution. Moscow’s foreign minister Sergei Lavrov insisted that the regime still had Russian support. President-elect Donald Trump called for the United States not to get involved, adding that Russia had been so preoccupied with the war in Ukraine that it “seems incapable of stopping this literal march through Syria.” “Syria is a mess, but is not our friend, and the united states should have nothing to do with it. This is not our fight. Let it play out. Do not get involved,” Mr Trump said in a post on Truth Social, his social media platform. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Turkish president, said he hoped that neighbouring Syria “finds peace” as its people were “ tired of war, blood and tears.” Video footage recently filmed in the suburbs of Damascus appeared to show regime soldiers changing out of their uniforms into civilian clothing to evade capture by approaching rebel forces. In the Druze neighbourhood of Jaramana, on the outskirts of Damascus, residents were filmed pulling down a bust of Hafez al-Assad, Bashar’s father. Anti-regime protesters were also tearing down posters of Assad himself in some Damascus suburbs. Some protesters gathered at regime buildings and security offices and demanded that they evacuate, according to Ryan Marouf, an activist and the editor of the news website Suwayda 24. Beyond Damascus, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) raised their flag over the eastern city of Deir el-Zor, the third city to be lost by Assad this week. Turki Al-Mahlawi, the mayor of the border town of Al-Qaim, claimed that 2,000 Syrian soldiers have abandoned their dictator and sought refuge in Iraq. The advance of various rebel groups has caught Assad’s allies off guard, as it was widely presumed that he had near-total control over Syria, where a civil war has been grinding on since 2011. In Qatar, Abbas Araghchi, the Iranian foreign minister, called for an immediate ceasefire after a meeting with his Russian and Turkish counterparts. “The most important thing is to start political talks between the Syrian government and legitimate opposition groups,” he said. “We will oppose this [uprising] in every possible way, we will support the legitimate Syrian authorities. And at the same time, of course, we will actively promote the need to resume dialogue with the opposition,” added Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister. Geir O Pedersen, the United Nations special envoy for Syria, said that the situation was changing “by the minute,” and that he was consulting with Iran, Russia, Turkey, Britain, the US and EU leaders. “The need for an orderly political transition has never been more urgent, starting with the urgent formation of inclusive and credible transitional arrangements in Syria. For this we need an urgent serious process fundamentally different from what has gone on before,” he said. Iran, which has backed Assad throughout the civil war, seems to be losing hope that the Syrian dictator will remain in power for much longer. “He has proven that no matter how much support he receives, he cannot push back even a few terrorists from his territory,” one IRGC official told the Sunday Telegraph. “He’s just a moron who couldn’t build a proper government in 10 years, and his forces surrendered without firing a single bullet,” a member of the Iran-linked Basij paramilitary group in Tehran said. Iranian militia groups, which are now fleeing the country, posted videos of themselves online bidding tearful farewells to the Sayyidah Ruqayya shrine in Damascus. 07:46 PM GMT That’s all for now We’re pausing our live coverage for now. Check back to for the latest updates. 06:44 PM GMT Assad ‘nowhere to be found’ in Damascus The Syrian regime insists Assad remains in the capital. But a source with knowledge of the situation inside the city has told CNN that he is not at any of the locations he would usually be found in. The source said the presidential guard is no longer stationed at Assad’s official residence. 06:42 PM GMT Battle for Homs continues AFP news agency reports: A Homs resident said he had seen the rebels advance past a Syrian Air Force base, in the north of the city, that was considered a major defensive area. The resident later said fighting was audible in the city outskirts. An opposition figure in touch with rebel command and a Syrian army source both also said the insurgents were inside the city. Seizing Homs, an important crossroads between the capital and the Mediterranean, would cut off Damascus from the coastal stronghold of Assad’s minority Alawite sect, and from Russia’s air and naval base. In the south, the rapid collapse of government control could allow a concerted assault on the capital, the seat of Assad’s power, where residents said electricity cut out on Saturday. 06:37 PM GMT Pictured: Residents as Hama is captured by rebels 06:15 PM GMT Panic in Damascus Residents of the Syrian capital were panic buying on Saturday as rebels closed in on the city. Many shops in the city shut their doors while others ran out of staple goods such as sugar, a resident told the Associated Press. Prices for some items had tripled, they said. “The situation is very strange. We are not used to that,” the resident said, insisting on anonymity, fearing retributions. “People are worried whether there will be a battle (in Damascus) or not.” 05:30 PM GMT Syria army says boosting deployment around Damascus and in south The Syrian army said it was strengthening its defence lines around Damascus and in the south on Saturday, as panic spread in the capital after the rebels said they were drawing close. “Our armed units are reinforcing their lines throughout the Damascus countryside and the southern region,” a spokesperson for the General Command of the Army and Armed Forces said in a televised statement. He also said the army was launching operations against rebels in the “Hama and Homs countrysides (in central Syria) and the northern Daraa countryside” in the south. 04:52 PM GMT Syria minister says ‘very strong’ security cordon around Damascus Syria’s interior minister told state TV that security forces had imposed an impenetrable cordon around Damascus on Saturday, as fighters opposing the government said they were nearing the capital. “There is a very strong security and military cordon on the far edges of Damascus and its countryside, and no one... can penetrate this defensive line that we, the armed forces, are building,” interior minister Mohammed al-Rahmoun told state TV from Damascus. 04:51 PM GMT Pictures from Hama after rebel take-over 04:33 PM GMT Syrian rebel commander says rebels have overrun villages around Homs A Syrian rebel commander, Hassan Abdul Ghany, said that rebel forces had overrun an army camp and a string of villages around the city of Homs. 04:27 PM GMT Syrian rebels say they will protect governmental, international and UN offices in Syria Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a former Al-Qaeda affiliate, said it has a duty to protect governmental, international and UN offices in Syria. 04:15 PM GMT Israel army says assisting UN forces in ‘repelling attack’ in Syria The Israeli army said that its troops were assisting UN peacekeeping forces in the Syrian-controlled part of the Golan Heights in repelling an attack “by armed individuals”. “A short while ago, an attack was carried out by armed individuals at a UN post in the Hader area in Syria,” the army said in a statement, referring to a town on the edge of the UN-patrolled buffer zone on the Golan Heights. “The (Israeli army) is currently assisting the UN forces in repelling the attack.” 04:05 PM GMT Syrian rebels enter suburbs of Homs Syrian rebels entered suburbs of the key city of Homs on Saturday, sources said, pressing a lightning week-long advance as front lines collapse across the country and government forces battle to save president Bashar al-Assad’s 24-year rule. A Homs resident, and army and rebel sources, said the insurgents had breached government defences from the north and east of the city. The Syrian military did not immediately comment on the reports. Fighting has raged around the north of strategically vital Homs since late on Friday with government forces reinforcing and using intense airstrikes to hammer the rebels. Insurgents also seized almost the entire south-west within 24 hours and advanced to within 30 km (20 miles) of Damascus as government forces fell back, rebels said. 03:52 PM GMT UN envoy says political transition in Syria ‘never been more urgent’ The need for orderly political transition in Syria has never been more urgent, the UN envoy for Syria said. Speaking at a briefing in Doha, Geir Pedersen called for calm and avoidance of bloodshed in Syria. Mr Pedersen also met with US representatives and other western envoys in the Qatari capital. 03:39 PM GMT Turkey’s Erdogan says he hopes Syria ‘finds peace’ Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he hopes neighbouring Syria “finds peace”, as rebels fighting to overthrow president Bashar al-Assad advance towards the capital, Damascus. “Our wish is for our neighbour, Syria, to find the peace and tranquillity it has been dreaming of for 13 years,” said Mr Erdogan, a key player in the region, adding that Syria “is tired of war, blood and tears”. Turkey, which has a long border with Syria, has become home to about three million Syrian refugees since the start of the civil war in 2011. “Our Syrian brothers and sisters deserve freedom, security and peace in their homeland,” Mr Erdogan added, voicing hope “to see a Syria where different identities co-exist in peace”. 03:28 PM GMT Pictures of the day 03:17 PM GMT Trump says US should ‘not get involved’ in Syria war President-elect Donald Trump has said the US should not be involved in the conflict in Syria, where rebel forces are threatening the government of president Bashar al-Assad. “Syria is a mess, but is not our friend, & THE UNITED STATES SHOULD HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT. LET IT PLAY OUT. DO NOT GET INVOLVED!” Mr Trump wrote in a post on his social media platform Truth Social. He posted the message shortly before he was to meet with French president Emmanuel Macron while in Paris for the reopening ceremony of Notre Dame cathedral. 03:10 PM GMT Around 2,000 Syrian troops cross to Iraq, Iraqi mayor says Around 2,000 Syrian troops have crossed the border into Iraq and sought refuge, Turki Al-Mahlawi, the mayor of Al-Qaim border town, told Reuters on Saturday. Some of the troops were wounded and are currently receiving medical treatment, he added. 02:56 PM GMT Syria state media denies Assad has left country Syria’s state news agency has denied rumours that president Bashar Assad has left the country, and said he is at work in Damascus. It condemned “rumours and false news about President Bashar al-Assad leaving Damascus,” adding that Mr Assad “is following up on his work and national and constitutional duties from the capital”. 02:44 PM GMT More than 1,000 Syrian soldiers ‘cross to Iraq’ More than 1,000 Syrian army soldiers crossed to Iraq on Saturday, the Iraqi state news agency said. 02:39 PM GMT Watch: Assad soldiers reportedly changing into civilian clothes Video reportedly shows soldiers of the Assad regime changing into civilian clothes in broad daylight near Damascus, as rebels begin to encircle the city. 02:33 PM GMT Russia’s Lavrov says Moscow will oppose Syrian rebel offensive ‘in every possible way’ Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov has said that Moscow would oppose Syrian insurgents Hayat Tahrir al-Sham by all means possible, Russian state news agency RIA reported. RIA cited Mr Lavrov as telling journalists at a forum in Qatar that the militants’ offensive had been planned long in advance, and represented an attempt to change dynamics on the ground in Syria. It quoted him as saying: “We will oppose this in every possible way, we will support the legitimate Syrian authorities. And at the same time, of course, we will actively promote the need to resume dialogue with the opposition.” 02:28 PM GMT Iran’s Araqchi says Moscow, Tehran and Ankara want end to fighting in Syria Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araqchi said after meeting his counterparts from Russia and Turkey in Doha on Saturday that the three countries agreed that the fighting in Syria should be immediately halted, Iranian state media reported. In remarks largely similar to those of Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov, Mr Araqchi said: “The most important thing is to start political talks between the Syrian government and legitimate opposition groups.” 02:16 PM GMT Syria rebels encircle Damascus in major threat to Assad regime Syria’s rebels have begun to encircle Damascus in a major threat to the survival of the regime of Bashar al-Assad. “Our forces have begun the final phase of encircling the capital, Damascus,” said Hassan Abdel Ghani, a commander with the Islamist-led alliance that launched the offensive. Earlier on Sunday, a war monitor said that the rebels had advanced to within 20 kilometres of the city. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said government forces had ceded more key ground, losing control of all of southern Daraa province and evacuating posts in Quneitra, near the Israel-annexed Golan Heights. The monitor said government forces were also pulling out of towns as close as 10 kilometres from the capital. On Friday, the Wall Street Journal reported that Assad’s family had already fled to Russia. 02:12 PM GMT Pictured: SDF fighters raise their flag over captured regime town Fighters from the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) coalition raise a flag in the eastern city of Deir el-Zor after capturing it from government forces on Friday. The town was the regime’s main foothold in the eastern Syrian desert and was the third major city to fall out of president Bashar al-Assad’s control. The SDF has not been part of the main Syrian rebel offensive, which is led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA). SDF troops have fought SNA forces in northern Aleppo, but it has not reported any clashes so far with HTS. 02:03 PM GMT Russia, Iran and Turkey call for talks between Assad and ‘legitimate’ opposition Russia, Turkey and Iran made a joint call for talks between the Syrian government and the “legitimate” opposition on Saturday. Sergei Lavrov, Russia’s foreign minister, said that the call should should be heeded by “everyone on the ground”. It came after top diplomats from the three nations met in Doha, Qatar, earlier on Sunday for discussions on the situation in Syria. It is not immediately clear which rebel factions were meant by “legitimate” opposition. Russia on Sunday labelled Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, Syria’s most powerful rebel group, as a terrorist organisation and that it would oppose it “in every possible way”. 01:49 PM GMT Rebels capture swathes of southern Syria amid government collapse Rebel forces have captured swathes of territory and several cities across the south of Syria as they advance on Damascus from three directions. The Syrian army is understood to have redeployed to the embattled city of Homs in central Syria, leaving rebels able to capture the southern provincial capitals of Daraa and Sweida early on Saturday morning. Within the last hour, rebel forces were reported to have captured the town of Al-Kiswah, which is roughly 10 miles south of Damascus. 01:36 PM GMT Hello and welcome to our live coverage We’re bringing you the latest updates as Syria’s rebels begin to encircle Damascus in a major threat to the survival of the regime of Bashar al-Assad.Syrian rebels topple President Assad, prime minister calls for free elections
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Syrian rebels topple President Assad, difficult times lie ahead
ATC issues non-bailable arrest warrants for PTI leadersThe nation should come together after a Melbourne synagogue was attacked, but those who politicise the incident are driving Australians apart, a senior politician has warned. or signup to continue reading Cabinet minister Murray Watt said Friday's firebombing at Adass Israel Synagogue was an "absolutely horrific anti-Semitic attack" that all Australians, especially political leaders, should be united on. He also lashed Peter Dutton after the opposition leader accused the government of making Australia less safe for Jewish people. "Peter Dutton chooses to try to politicise it and divide our community, rather than try to bring us together," Senator Watt told Sky News on Sunday. "It looks like terrorism but that's a judgement that's got to be made by our domestic security agencies. "Whatever we label it, it is an absolute outrage, it never should have happened and the people responsible have got to be hunted down and pay a price for this." This new chapter of political debate began after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the synagogue attack and linked it to the government's decision to support a non-binding UN resolution that urged Israel to "bring to an end its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory as rapidly as possible". Mr Dutton blamed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, claiming he had not done enough to address anti-Semitism. "The prime minister's deliberate decision to see political advantage ... on this issue and to place to a domestic audience of green voters has been deplorable and one of the worst things I've ever seen in public life," he told Sky News. "(The firebombing) is a tragedy and it's a national disgrace that never should have happened, and nobody should be surprised by the fact it happened - which is part of the tragedy." But Senator Watt has defended the federal government's record, noting it had legislated a ban on the Nazi salute and other hate symbols, appointed an anti-Semitism envoy and funded security and safety outside Jewish sites. Australia was also just one of 157 countries that voted in favour of the UN resolution, which included like-minded allies including Canada, Germany and Japan. Meanwhile only eight nations disagreed and seven abstained. "I respectfully disagree with Mr Netanyahu's comments," Senator Watt said. "It's completely incorrect to label Australia as taking some kind of position that's out of step with the rest of the world." On October 7, 2023, Hamas - a designated terrorist organisation - attacked Israel, killing more than 1200 people and taking another 250 people hostage, according to the Israeli government. In response, Israel unleashed a bombing campaign and ground invasion on Gaza, that has killed almost 45,000 people, displaced 1.9 million and left 345,000 to face catastrophic levels of food insecurity, local health ministry sources report. Advertisement Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date. We care about the protection of your data. Read our . Advertisement