Iran reopens airspace after temporary closure forced flights to reroute
Iran reopened its airspace late on Wednesday after a near five-hour closure that disrupted airline traffic, amid heightened concerns over possible mil...
Countries worldwide ushered in 2025 with a blend of vibrant displays and heartfelt traditions, reflecting cultural pride and shared hopes for the future. From eco-friendly fireworks in Thailand to quiet prayers in Kenya, each celebration offered a unique glimpse into the spirit of optimism.
As the clock struck midnight on December 31, 2024, countries worldwide rang in 2025 with festivities showcasing their unique traditions and aspirations for the year ahead. From dazzling fireworks to heartfelt gatherings, these celebrations highlighted cultural pride and collective hope for a brighter future.
In Bangkok, Thailand marked the New Year with an eco-friendly fireworks display crafted from sticky rice, spanning 1,400 meters along the Chao Phraya River. The six-act spectacle, adorned with pastel and gold hues, celebrated Thai heritage under the theme “Celebrating the Everlasting Legacy of Siam,” drawing crowds to riverside spots and malls to marvel at the breathtaking show.
New Zealand lit up Auckland with a dynamic five-minute fireworks and laser light display. The Sky Tower hosted a dramatic 10-second countdown, followed by over 500 kilograms of pyrotechnics launched across various iconic sites, including the illuminated Auckland Harbour Bridge.
Sydney, Australia, boasted its largest-ever New Year’s fireworks display, featuring a stunning golden waterfall cascading from the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The 12-minute extravaganza, with more than 23,000 pyrotechnic shots, illuminated the Opera House, rooftops, and the harbor, captivating over a million spectators.
In Qatar, Lusail Boulevard hosted a drone and fireworks display spelling out "2025." The celebration drew large crowds, with drones lighting up the night sky alongside traditional fireworks, symbolizing the nation's optimism for the year ahead.
Kenya embraced cultural traditions with celebrations in Ruiru centered around "nyama choma," a roasted goat meat dish bringing communities together. Meanwhile, in Nairobi, New Year’s prayers and songs filled churches, fostering a sense of peace and unity.
Damascus, Syria, saw poignant festivities at a Christmas market amid a backdrop of historic change. With the departure of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024 and the end of a prolonged civil war, Syrians celebrated the start of a new chapter, with fireworks symbolizing hope and renewal.
Moscow, Russia, experienced subdued celebrations without fireworks, but crowds remained hopeful for peace and prosperity. Many expressed cautious optimism, despite uncertainty over whether political talks could end the ongoing conflict.
In Ukraine, a curfew left Maidan Square empty as the country continued to endure the challenges of war. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s New Year address emphasized resilience, urging Ukrainians to stay strong in their pursuit of peace and independence.
As 2025 begins, the world reflects its diversity and resilience through celebrations that, despite differences, carry a shared desire for peace, unity, and prosperity in the coming year.
The Trump administration will suspend all visa processing for visitors from 75 countries beginning 21 January 2026, according to a State Department memo reported by media.
Saudi Arabia has informed Iran that it will not allow its territory or airspace to be used for any military action against Tehran, according to two sources close to the kingdom’s government cited by AFP.
Sweden is sending a group of military officers to Greenland at Denmark’s request, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said on Wednesday, as Nordic countries and NATO allies step up coordination around the Arctic territory.
Israel and Arab States have urged the U.S. to delay any potential military action against Iran, warning that such a move could undermine ongoing protests inside the country, according to NBC News.
Boeing booked more aircraft orders than Airbus in 2025 for the first time since 2018, official figures showed, even as the European manufacturer delivered more planes during the year.
A crane collapse at a construction site near Bangkok has killed two people and injured five others on Thursday, Thai police said, a day after a separate crane accident derailed a train in northeastern Thailand, killing dozens.
Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez said Wednesday that her government will continue releasing prisoners detained under former President Nicolás Maduro, calling it part of a “new political moment” since his ouster by the United States earlier this month.
The U.S. and UK are reducing personnel at Qatar’s Al-Udeid air base as President Donald Trump weighs possible action against Iran over its violent crackdown on protesters.
The United Nations has called on Uganda to lift a nationwide internet blackout ahead of Thursday’s general election, describing the restrictions as “deeply worrying.”
Whole milk is heading back to school cafeterias across the U.S. after President Donald Trump signed a bill overturning Obama-era limits on higher-fat milk options.
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