Japan has issued a security advisory for its citizens living in China as diplomatic tensions between the two countries intensify following remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi about Taiwan. The Japanese embassy in Beijing urged nationals to remain vigilant, avoid crowded areas, and travel in groups whenever possible. Parents with children were asked to exercise extra caution and report any suspicious activity immediately. The advisory follows China’s warning to its citizens to avoid traveling to Japan after Tokyo suggested it might respond militarily if China attacks Taiwan. Both nations have exchanged formal protests, with Beijing accusing Japan of interfering in its internal affairs. The situation has sparked a verbal confrontation, with some Chinese officials making harsh comments perceived as threats. The Japanese government has refused to retract its stance, further straining bilateral relations between the two Asian powers.

A total of 170 Bangladeshi nationals detained or staying irregularly in Libya have been repatriated to Bangladesh through a coordinated effort involving the Bangladesh Embassy in Libya, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The returnees arrived in Dhaka on a chartered Buraq Air flight on November 18. Most of them had entered Libya in hopes of reaching Europe illegally by sea, often falling victim to human trafficking, abduction, and physical abuse. Upon arrival, officials from the ministries and IOM welcomed them and urged them to share their experiences to raise awareness against irregular migration. IOM provided each returnee with travel allowances, food, and basic medical assistance. Authorities confirmed that this repatriation is part of an ongoing initiative to safely return Bangladeshi detainees from Libyan detention centers.

European Union Defence and Space Commissioner Andrius Kubilius has warned that Europe remains inadequately prepared to counter Russia’s modern drone attacks. Speaking in Vilnius, Lithuania, he said the continent’s detection, defense, and interception systems are still insufficient, even after Russia’s recent drone strike on Poland. Kubilius emphasized that while Russia is learning from its operations, Europe has yet to adapt effectively. He urged EU nations to learn from Ukraine’s battlefield experience to strengthen their defense capabilities, warning that failure to do so would be a historic mistake that could weaken both Europe and Ukraine. Following intelligence warnings about possible Russian aggression toward NATO members, the EU and NATO have begun reinforcing their eastern defenses, deploying additional troops and expanding anti-drone systems along the alliance’s eastern flank.

The United States and Saudi Arabia are preparing to sign a long-term civil nuclear cooperation agreement aimed at supporting Riyadh’s Vision 2030 energy diversification goals. According to Reuters, the deal could be signed at the White House as early as Tuesday, with full details expected later this year. The agreement, known as a '123 Agreement' under US law, would allow the export of nuclear materials and technology for peaceful purposes, provided strict non-proliferation safeguards are met. While Saudi Arabia has not yet accepted all conditions, Washington may impose restrictions on uranium enrichment and prohibit any military use of nuclear technology. US Energy Secretary Chris Wright confirmed that the deal will proceed, while Saudi officials expressed readiness to comply with international nuclear standards. The cooperation reflects both nations’ strategic and economic interests, as the kingdom seeks to reduce carbon emissions and secure sustainable energy sources.

Germany announced on Monday that it will lift its restrictions on military equipment exports to Israel starting November 24, following weeks of relative stability since the Gaza ceasefire took effect on October 10. Chancellor Friedrich Merz had imposed the suspension in early August after Israel’s cabinet decided to advance on Gaza City. Government spokesperson Sebastian Hille said the decision was based on the ceasefire’s durability and the ongoing delivery of humanitarian aid. He emphasized that Berlin expects all parties to uphold the agreements reached. Once the restrictions are lifted, Germany will assess export requests on a case-by-case basis, as per standard procedure. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar welcomed the move and urged other governments to follow Germany’s example. Israel sources nearly 70% of its military supplies from the United States, while Germany is its second-largest arms supplier, having exported €485 million worth of weapons since the Israel-Hamas conflict began in October 2023.

Ukraine has signed a letter of intent with France to purchase up to 100 Rafale fighter jets, along with air defense systems and drones, as part of a major expansion of its air capabilities. The agreement was announced during President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Paris, where he met French President Emmanuel Macron at Villacoublay Air Force Base. The deal includes eight air defense systems and six launchers, with deliveries of drones and guided bombs expected soon and full implementation over the next decade. Macron said Ukraine will also receive a new generation of SAMP/T missile interceptors comparable to the US Patriot system by 2026. Financing options are still under discussion, with potential support from EU grants, loans, or frozen Russian assets. The Rafale jets, produced by Dassault Aviation, are multi-role aircraft similar to the American F-16. This marks Zelensky’s ninth visit to Paris since Russia’s 2022 invasion, underscoring France’s growing role in supporting Ukraine’s defense amid uncertain US aid.

The United Nations Security Council has approved a U.S.-drafted resolution supporting President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza, which includes the creation of an International Stabilization Force (ISF). Thirteen member states, including the United Kingdom, France, and Somalia, voted in favor, while Russia and China abstained. The ISF would be tasked with disarming armed groups such as Hamas, protecting civilians, and ensuring safe humanitarian routes. The United States said several countries have expressed interest in contributing troops but did not name them. Hamas has rejected the proposal, arguing it undermines Palestinian sovereignty and imposes international guardianship over Gaza. The group stated that disarming resistance factions would compromise their right to self-defense and claimed the plan fails to address Palestinian rights. The ISF is expected to coordinate with Israel and Egypt and help form a new Palestinian police force independent of Hamas control.

Saudi Arabia has assured the Palestinian Authority that it will not normalize relations with Israel until conditions for establishing an independent Palestinian state are met. A senior Palestinian official told the Times of Israel that Riyadh reaffirmed its commitment to the Palestinian cause during internal meetings, emphasizing that normalization can only proceed based on the 1967 borders. The assurance comes ahead of a meeting between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and U.S. President Donald Trump, where Washington is expected to press Riyadh to advance ties with Israel. Palestinian officials expressed confidence that Saudi Arabia will not shift its stance abruptly. The statement contrasts with the 2020 Abraham Accords, under which four Arab nations normalized relations with Israel. Meanwhile, discussions continue regarding Hamas’s control of Gaza, as both the Palestinian Authority and the Arab League have urged Hamas to disarm, a demand the group has rejected.

Throughout history, several heads of state and government have faced execution following accusations of tyranny, corruption, or betrayal of their nations. England’s King Charles I was executed in 1649 after being convicted of treason for defying Parliament. In Turkey, Prime Minister Adnan Menderes was hanged in 1961 following a military coup and charges of constitutional violations and corruption. Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was executed in 1979 after a controversial trial under General Zia-ul-Haq’s regime. Iran’s former Prime Minister Amir-Abbas Hoveyda was shot dead in 1979 following the Islamic Revolution, in a trial criticized for its lack of due process. Other notable leaders who met similar fates include France’s King Louis XVI, Hungary’s Imre Nagy, Romania’s Nicolae Ceaușescu, and Japan’s Hideki Tojo. These cases highlight how political downfall and authoritarian rule have often led to the ultimate punishment — death.

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sunday that Washington may open discussions with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, signaling a potential shift in U.S. policy toward Caracas amid heightened regional tensions. The remarks came as the U.S. expanded its military presence in the Caribbean, deploying the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford and additional warships as part of an anti-narcotics campaign. Trump also indicated that the U.S. would designate the alleged Venezuelan drug organization Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist group, accusing Maduro of leading it—an allegation he denies. The administration has reportedly held internal meetings to consider possible military actions against Venezuela. Despite suggesting openness to dialogue, Trump emphasized continued pressure on Maduro, citing efforts to curb drug trafficking into the U.S. Human rights groups have criticized recent U.S. strikes on suspected drug boats as unlawful, while allies express concern over potential violations of international law. A recent poll showed limited American support for military intervention in Venezuela.

At least three Palestinians were killed in the latest Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, according to medical sources at Nasser Medical Complex. The attacks targeted areas east of Khan Younis, Gaza City’s Zeitoun neighborhood, and near Rafah. Despite claims of a ceasefire, Israeli forces reportedly continue operations near the so-called 'Yellow Line,' worsening conditions for families already displaced by the conflict. Heavy rainfall has inundated thousands of temporary shelters across Gaza, leaving residents in dire conditions with limited aid. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) reported that around 13,000 families, whose homes were destroyed in previous bombings, are now enduring cold and flooding in inadequate shelters. The United Nations estimates that over 80 percent of Gaza’s buildings and housing units have been damaged or destroyed since the war began. Israel continues to restrict the entry of emergency shelter materials, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

At least 32 people were killed when a temporary bridge collapsed at a copper and cobalt mine in the Lualaba province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The incident occurred at the Kalando mine, where workers reportedly ignored a ban on entry due to heavy rains and landslide risks. The collapse happened as a large group of miners rushed across the makeshift bridge, which gave way under their weight. Conflicting reports suggest the death toll may exceed 40. Witnesses said panic erupted after gunfire was heard, allegedly from soldiers at the site. The mine has long been a source of tension between informal miners, a local cooperative, and the legal operators. Authorities have suspended all operations at the site, while human rights groups have called for an independent investigation into the army’s alleged involvement. The provincial government has yet to release a final casualty figure.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to Washington marks a critical juncture in the U.S.-Saudi relationship, as both nations seek to recalibrate their roles in a changing world. The meeting with former President Donald Trump is expected to yield progress on a formal defense cooperation agreement, as well as new initiatives in artificial intelligence, mining, rare earths, and civilian nuclear energy. Saudi Arabia’s rapid modernization under MBS, including social reforms and economic diversification, has transformed the kingdom into a more assertive middle power. While human rights concerns persist, Riyadh’s codification of legal reforms signals gradual progress. The U.S. views a stable, reforming Saudi Arabia as a key partner for regional stability and countering extremism. However, friction remains over oil prices, arms sales, and the pace of normalization with Israel. MBS insists that any deal with Israel must include tangible steps toward a Palestinian state. The visit underscores a shift from the traditional oil-for-security pact to a broader partnership based on mutual strategic and economic interests.

As Saudi Arabia undergoes rapid transformation under Vision 2030, many Americans living in the kingdom are beginning to see it not just as a workplace but as a 'second home'. American expatriates interviewed by Arab News praised Saudi Arabia’s hospitality, safety, economic opportunities, and quality of life. John Pagano, CEO of Red Sea Global, who recently received Saudi citizenship, described it as both a personal honor and a milestone in the nation’s transformative journey. Maria Cometti, co-founder of DQ Living magazine and a Riyadh resident, highlighted the positive atmosphere and family-friendly environment under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership. Saudi Arabia is also expanding its global connectivity, with Delta Air Lines announcing a new direct Atlanta–Riyadh route. The kingdom aims to attract 150 million visitors by 2030, surpassing its initial tourism goals. The combination of security, hospitality, and opportunity has made Saudi Arabia feel like a true home for many Americans.

Despite a ceasefire declared over a month ago, Israeli forces have continued airstrikes across Gaza, worsening the plight of residents already suffering from severe flooding and cold weather. Heavy rains over the weekend inundated large parts of the enclave, destroying nearly 93% of refugee tents, according to Gaza’s media office. Many displaced Palestinians have sought shelter in bombed-out buildings at risk of collapse. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) urged Israel to allow essential supplies into Gaza to provide shelter materials for those affected. Israel has restricted UNRWA’s operations since last year, alleging links between its staff and Hamas. Recent strikes in Khan Younis, Gaza City, and Rafah killed at least three people, while the Palestinian Health Ministry reported additional casualties and the return of bodies of detainees. Overall, more than 69,000 people have been killed and over 170,000 injured in Gaza during the two-year conflict, as humanitarian conditions continue to deteriorate.