The US plans to make tourists from about 40 visa-waiver countries share their social media history from the past five years. A notice from the Department of Homeland Security says social media will become a mandatory part of visa screening. Travellers may also need to give old phone numbers, email addresses, and family details. The rule will not apply to Indians under the visa-waiver system, but similar checks already affect many Indian visa applicants. The move is part of the Trump administration’s push for tighter digital screening. Officials say the goal is to improve security and prevent visa misuse. 

Italy has become the first country ever to receive legacy status for its entire national cuisine — not just a dish or region, but the full spectrum of Italian cooking — from UNESCO. The decision, announced at a UNESCO assembly in New Delhi, celebrates Italian food — from pasta and pizza to tiramisu and regional dishes — as more than just meals, but as a living cultural tradition that binds families and communities. The bid, initiated in 2023 and championed by the government, emphasised that Italian cuisine is a cultural fabric weaving together social rituals, regional diversity, respect for ingredients and inter‑generational knowledge. Officials say the recognition strengthens Italy’s cultural identity globally and may provide an economic boost by promoting tourism and safeguarding its gastronomic heritage. (PC: Reuters)

Four young men in Herat, Afghanistan were detained after being seen wearing outfits inspired by the British series Peaky Blinders — trench coats, flat caps, and vintage-style suits — which had made them local internet sensations. The country’s “Morality Police,” under the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, accused them of “promoting foreign culture” contrary to Afghan and Islamic values. While initial reports said the men were sent to a rehabilitation program, the ministry later clarified that they were “summoned, advised and released.” One detainee, reportedly with a large online following, apologized — saying he had “unknowingly spread things against Sharia” and promised to stop.

Cross-border fighting between Thailand and Cambodia entered a third day on December 10 2025 after a ceasefire collapsed, forcing more than 500,000 civilians to flee their homes on both sides. The renewed clashes — including artillery barrages and air raids — have killed at least 13 people so far. Thai authorities report over 400,000 people sheltered across seven provinces; Cambodia said about 101,229 were evacuated in five provinces. Despite pressure for peace, both nations blame each other for rekindling the violence, with no immediate sign of compromise. (PC: Al Jazeera)

Three Delhi schools—Modern School, Delhi Public School (RK Puram), and Sanskriti School—received bomb threats via email on Wednesday morning. Bomb disposal teams were rushed to the campuses, and anti-sabotage checks are ongoing. No suspicious objects have been found so far. The emails, sent from “wasung@atomicmail.io”, referenced fake police encounters, the Khalistan movement, and the UN. Police are working to identify the sender. Delhi has seen a series of bomb threats recently, including emails to Ramjas and Deshbandhu Colleges on December 3. Authorities continue to monitor schools closely to ensure safety and prevent panic. (PC: HT)

A 15-year-old boy was fatally stabbed on Westbourne Road in Islington, north London, on 9 December. Emergency services treated him at the scene, but he later died in hospital. The Metropolitan Police have launched a murder investigation and set up a cordon around Atlas Mews, Westbourne Road, and Arundel Square. Chief Superintendent Jason Stewart said urgent inquiries are ongoing and the family is being supported by specialist officers. He urged anyone who witnessed the incident or has information to contact the police or Crimestoppers. The attack has raised concerns in the local community due to the victim’s young age. (PC: BBC)

Christmas is celebrated differently across the world, focusing on meaning rather than gifts. In Iceland, families exchange books and read by candlelight. Japan treats Christmas Eve like Valentine’s Day, with couples enjoying romantic dinners. Australians play cricket with family in the sun, while Finns visit cemeteries to light candles for ancestors. In Ukraine, spiderwebs decorate trees for luck. Danes make homemade decorations in community craft sessions. In Venezuela, people skate to early morning church services. These traditions show that Christmas can be reflective, creative, and communal, reminding people that joy comes from togetherness, not material gifts. (PC: BBC)

US President Donald Trump said birthright citizenship was created for the babies of slaves, not for “rich” foreigners seeking US citizenship for their families. He spoke to Politico after the US Supreme Court agreed to review his order that ends citizenship for children born to undocumented immigrants and short-term visitors. Trump said it would be “devastating” if his administration loses the case. He argued that the rule was written after the Civil War and was never meant for people “dropping into the country” to gain citizenship. The Supreme Court is expected to give its ruling next summer. (PC: NDTV)

UK defence experts warn that Britain may only be able to fight for a few weeks if a major war with Russia began. Military leaders say the Army lacks ammunition, strong air defence and enough spare parts. They also warn that troop numbers are too low and the UK cannot easily replace losses in a long war. Russia, however, has large manpower and fast-growing weapons production. Nato fears new risks in Europe if Moscow gains ground in Ukraine. Analysts say the UK must invest more and prepare for real threats that could grow in the coming years. (PC: BBC)

Australia has enacted the world's strictest online safety law, officially banning children under 16 from major social media platforms. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the measure took effect Wednesday, declaring Australia has "taken control back" from tech giants. The ban covers Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, Kick, and Twitch, while WhatsApp, Roblox, and Pinterest remain allowed. Instagram alone reported 350,000 Australian users aged 13-15 losing access. Platforms face heavy fines for non-compliance and must verify ages for suspected underage users. Meta warned the ban could push youth toward less regulated sites, calling it "counterproductive." Elon Musk's X was the last platform to confirm compliance, stating it had no choice but to obey Australian law. (PC: Mashable)