Syrian Army Announces Temporary Withdrawal from Aleppo After Rebel Assault

Al Jazeera,

The Syrian military declared a temporary withdrawal from Aleppo following a surprise offensive by rebel groups in northwest Syria. Dozens of soldiers were reported killed or injured in clashes involving Hay’et Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The rebels have seized control of large parts of Aleppo, marking the first significant opposition advance in years. Civilians expressed mixed emotions as some began returning to previously abandoned homes. The Syrian government has accused Iran and Hezbollah of being distracted by conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, leading to vulnerabilities. Meanwhile, Russian forces continue to provide air support for the Syrian military. The closure of Aleppo airport and cancellation of flights underscore the intensifying conflict. Analysts speculate whether the regime and its allies will retaliate to regain control of Aleppo.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau Visits Trump Amid Steep Tariff Threats

Fox News,

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with President-elect Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago to discuss Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian products. The tariffs are part of Trump’s plan to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking. Trudeau expressed optimism about resolving the issue through constructive discussions. The proposed tariffs have raised concerns over increased costs of goods, particularly staples like potatoes. Canadian officials highlighted the significance of Canada-U.S. trade relations, emphasizing Canada’s role as a key supplier of critical resources. Trudeau’s visit makes him the first G-7 leader to engage with Trump since his election victory.

Black Friday Mall Shooting in Arkansas Leaves Two Injured

ABC News,

A shooting at Park Plaza Mall in Little Rock, Arkansas, on Black Friday left two people injured with non-life-threatening wounds. The incident, initially mistaken for an active aggressor situation, was later identified as stemming from a disturbance between two individuals. The shooting disrupted the busy shopping day, drawing swift responses from law enforcement. Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. condemned the act, emphasizing public safety. Authorities are investigating the event as part of broader efforts to address gun violence during high-traffic occasions.

Belgium’s Romanians Poised to Propel Far Right into Power

Politico EU,

Romania’s presidential election took an unexpected turn with far-right candidate Călin Georgescu securing a shocking first-round victory. Georgescu, a vaccine skeptic and supporter of WWII-era fascist leaders, is set to face center-left Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu in the runoff. Georgescu’s ultranationalist agenda has drawn both domestic and international criticism. Analysts suggest his rise reflects growing discontent among voters. The final election round on December 8 will be a critical moment for Romania’s political future.

Elon Musk’s X Intervenes in Alex Jones’ Infowars Bankruptcy Sale

CNN Business,

Elon Musk’s X is contesting the sale of Alex Jones’ Infowars accounts, citing terms of service violations. The accounts were part of a bankruptcy auction to pay Jones’ $1.5 billion defamation fine to Sandy Hook families. Legal experts consider X’s intervention unprecedented, as social media platforms usually avoid court battles over account ownership. Musk’s political motivations and desire to assert control over X’s platform are under scrutiny. The case underscores evolving dynamics between tech companies and their users in legal disputes.

Big Tech Criticizes Australia’s Ban on Social Media for Youths Under 16

Reuters,

Australian legislation banning youths under 16 from accessing social media has sparked backlash from major tech companies. Meta and TikTok criticized the law as rushed, citing potential unintended consequences like pushing teens to unregulated online spaces. The legislation imposes fines up to AUD 49.5 million for non-compliance. The law’s passage follows a parliamentary inquiry into cyberbullying and mental health issues. A trial phase for enforcement will begin in January, with full implementation set for November 2025. Social media companies call for collaboration with the government to ensure balanced and effective solutions.

SpaceX Launches 24 Starlink Satellites in Midnight Mission

Space.com,

SpaceX successfully launched 24 Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral early Saturday morning. The Falcon 9 rocket’s first stage landed on the droneship “Just Read the Instructions” in the Atlantic Ocean, marking its sixth successful mission. The deployment extends Starlink’s global internet service. SpaceX also plans another launch later in the day for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office. The mission highlights SpaceX’s growing role in commercial and military space operations.