US stock markets closed at new record highs on Friday, driven by falling oil prices and strong performance in the technology sector. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 363.49 points, or 0.72%, to close at 51,032.46 points. Technology companies once again led the rally, contributing to the market's continued upward momentum as investors responded positively to lower energy costs across the economy.
Munich Airport temporarily suspended operations after reports of possible drone activity in the vicinity of the facility. According to German newspaper Bild, flights were halted for more than an hour as authorities responded to the potential security threat. The airport closure disrupted air traffic at one of Germany's busiest aviation hubs before operations resumed.
Brazil has strongly rejected a United States decision to designate the gangs PCC and Comando Vermelho as terrorist organizations. The Brazilian government warned against interference in its national sovereignty and expressed concerns about potential economic damage from the American classification. The diplomatic dispute highlights tensions between the two countries over how to address organized crime groups operating in Brazil.
The US military killed three people in another attack on what it described as a smuggling vessel. Since beginning these operations in September of last year, at least 198 people have died in the attacks. The incident represents the latest in an ongoing military campaign that has resulted in nearly 200 fatalities over the past several months.
Electric vehicle purchases in Germany have been increasing among drivers, with growth accelerating following the start of the conflict between the United States and Iran. The trend reflects changing consumer preferences in Europe's largest automotive market as geopolitical tensions influence energy and transportation decisions.
Israeli and Lebanese military officials conducted productive negotiations at the Pentagon in Washington focused on security arrangements along their shared border. The talks addressed specific measures to maintain stability in the border region and were designed to lay the groundwork for future political discussions between the two countries. The military-level discussions represent a significant step in ongoing efforts to establish a more comprehensive ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, following previous tensions and conflicts in the region.
US President-elect Donald Trump has outlined strict conditions for any potential peace agreement with Iran, demanding the country completely abandon its nuclear weapons program and immediately reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump rejected any compromise approaches to negotiations with Tehran, insisting on full compliance with nuclear non-proliferation requirements as a prerequisite for peace talks. The demands signal a hardline approach toward Iran that could shape Middle East policy when Trump takes office, particularly regarding the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for global oil supplies that Iran has threatened to close during periods of heightened tensions with the West.
The Brazilian government has criticized recent actions by the United States against drug gangs operating in the region. The US government designated two criminal gangs as foreign terrorist organizations, a move that has drawn opposition from Brazilian officials. The designation represents a significant escalation in how the United States classifies and approaches transnational criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking. Brazil's criticism suggests diplomatic tensions over how to address organized crime groups that operate across borders in Latin America.
Guatemala has denied reports that it agreed to conduct joint military operations with the United States against drug trafficking networks. The Central American country clarified its position amid speculation about coordinated anti-narcotics efforts. However, Guatemala confirmed that it has indeed requested cooperation from the United States in combating drug smuggling operations. The clarification suggests Guatemala is seeking US assistance through established channels rather than agreeing to joint military strikes or operations on its territory.
Malta began early parliamentary elections that were called by the ruling Labour Party. The governing Labour Party enters the vote as the favorite to retain power. The early elections were triggered by the ruling party's decision to dissolve parliament ahead of the scheduled date, though the specific reasons for calling the early vote were not detailed.
Ghana's parliament has passed legislation criminalizing the promotion of LGBTI activities. The parliament had previously approved similar legislation in 2024, but then-president Nana Akufo-Addo declined to sign it into law. The new law represents another attempt to restrict LGBTI rights and advocacy in the West African nation, where same-sex relationships already face legal restrictions.
Donald Trump has criticized Jill Biden, accusing her of not being a good wife after she allegedly suggested that President Joe Biden may have suffered a stroke during a recent debate. The former president's attack targets the First Lady's comments about her husband's debate performance. Immediately following the debate, however, Jill Biden had publicly praised her husband's performance, making Trump's criticism part of his broader political attacks on the Biden family.
Three Latvian mountaineers died Wednesday after falling near Denali Pass at an altitude of 5,550 meters during an attempt to climb Mount McKinley, North America's highest peak. The climbers were part of a seven-member group, with one additional member suffering injuries and reported to be in critical condition. Mount McKinley, also known as Denali, stands at 6,190 meters in Alaska's Denali National Park and is considered one of the world's most challenging climbs due to its extreme weather conditions and technical difficulty.
Donald Trump is in excellent health according to his physician, who conducted a comprehensive medical examination of the U.S. president. The doctor, identified as Barbabella, reported that Trump's cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous systems are all in good condition, along with his overall physical fitness. However, the physician recommended that the president lose weight as part of maintaining his health.
A White House source indicates that President Trump will only agree to a deal with Iran if the country meets all of his conditions, according to ongoing Middle East coverage. The statement comes amid continued tensions and diplomatic developments in the region, though specific details of Trump's conditions were not immediately available.
A judge has ruled that adding Donald Trump's name to the Kennedy Center title was illegal and has also prohibited the government from closing the facility. The court decision addresses what appears to be an unauthorized modification to the name of the cultural institution, though specific details about the circumstances or timing of the name change were not provided in available reports.
Hamas has accused Israel of violating their ceasefire agreement following Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's announcement that he intends to expand Israeli military control over the Gaza Strip to 70 percent of the territory. Netanyahu made the announcement on Thursday, signaling a significant escalation in Israel's military presence in the Palestinian enclave. The accusation highlights growing tensions over the implementation of the ceasefire between the two sides, with Hamas viewing the proposed expansion of Israeli control as a breach of their agreed-upon terms.
Iran is preparing an elaborate funeral for Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, according to media reports. Khamenei's son and designated successor Mojtaba Khamenei was reportedly injured in recent attacks and has not appeared in public since taking office. The reports suggest preparations are underway for the funeral of Iran's highest religious and political authority, who has led the Islamic Republic since 1989.
Flooding caused by rising water levels in the Euphrates River has claimed multiple lives in Syria. The floods are destroying buildings and fertile agricultural land across affected areas. The flooding resulted from unusually heavy rainfall in the region, including in neighboring Turkey, which has caused water levels in the Euphrates to surge beyond normal capacity.
Iran has acknowledged ongoing behind-the-scenes negotiations with the United States but confirmed that no final agreement to end Middle Eastern conflicts has been reached. The Fars news agency reported Friday that recent statements by U.S. President Donald Trump contain a mixture of truth and lies, according to informed sources. While Iran admits to continuing diplomatic talks with Washington, officials emphasized that any comprehensive peace deal remains elusive.