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UN Security Council Endorses US-Led Gaza Initiative

    US President Donald Trump talks with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Knesset in Jerusalem The United Nations Security Council has adopted a resolution put forward by the United States in support of President Donald Trump’s plan for Gaza. The measure, which passed after intense negotiations among member states, outlines a framework aimed at stabilizing the region and addressing humanitarian concerns. The resolution emphasizes international cooperation in delivering aid, rebuilding infrastructure, and supporting security arrangements designed to prevent further escalation. While the US hailed the adoption as a diplomatic breakthrough, several council members expressed caution, noting that the plan’s long-term success will depend on the willingness of local stakeholders to engage constructively. Observers say the vote reflects both the urgency of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the geopolitical weight of Washington’s involvement. The coming months wil...

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US holiday retail sales grow 3.1%, down from prior year -Mastercard



US retail sales rose 3.1% between Nov. 1 and Dec. 24, rounding up a majority of the holiday sales for retailers, as shoppers looked for last-minute Christmas deals amid big promotions, a Mastercard report showed on Tuesday.

The increase is lower than the 3.7% growth Mastercard forecast in September, and has slumped from last year’s 7.6% as higher interest rates and inflation pressured consumer spending. Sales in the apparel and restaurant categories rose 2.4% and 7.8%, respectively, during the holiday shopping period, according to the Mastercard Spending Pulse report, while sales of electronics fell 0.4%.

Ecommerce sales grew at a slower pace of 6.3% from last year’s 10.6% as the popularity of online shopping came off pandemic highs, the report showed.

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