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Tirana Erupts as Corruption Scandal Triggers Nationwide Unrest

  Supporters of the opposition attend an anti-government protest, in Tirana, Albania, December 22, 2025.  Mass protests have broken out across Albania after corruption charges were brought against a senior government official, intensifying political tensions in the country. Demonstrators filled the streets of Tirana, rallying outside government buildings and demanding accountability from national leaders. The charges, which relate to alleged misuse of public funds in major infrastructure projects, have sparked widespread anger among citizens who accuse the government of failing to curb corruption. Protesters clashed with police as security forces used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds, leading to multiple injuries and arrests. Government officials have denied wrongdoing and described the accusations as politically motivated, but opposition groups argue that the scandal reflects deeper systemic issues. Calls for resignations have grown louder as the unrest contin...

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Israel Orders New Evacuations in Rafah as it Prepares to Expand Military Operations

 

In a significant development, Israel has ordered new evacuations in Gaza’s southern city of Rafah. Tens of thousands of people are being forced to move as the Israeli military prepares to expand its operations closer to the heavily populated central area. This move comes despite growing pressure from close ally the United States and other international actors.

The situation in Rafah is critical. Israel has already evacuated the eastern third of the city, which is considered the last refuge in Gaza. However, the United Nations and other agencies have warned that a full-scale invasion of Rafah would have dire consequences for humanitarian operations and could lead to a surge in civilian casualties. Rafah shares a border with Egypt near the main aid entry points, which have already been affected by the conflict.

U.S. President Joe Biden has taken a firm stance, stating that offensive weapons will not be provided to Israel for its operations in Rafah. The U.S. report also highlighted “reasonable” evidence that Israel breached international law protecting civilians during its war against Hamas. In response, Israel emphasized its compliance with the laws of armed conflict and its efforts to minimize civilian casualties.

More than 1.4 million Palestinians—half of Gaza’s population—have sought refuge in Rafah, most of them fleeing Israel’s offensives elsewhere. The ongoing evacuations are forcing people to return north to areas that have already been devastated by previous Israeli attacks. Displaced residents are grappling with the difficult decision of leaving their homes in search of safety. As one Rafah resident put it, “The Israeli army does not have a safe area in Gaza. They target everything” .

The situation remains tense, and the international community closely watches the developments in Rafah. The impact on civilians and humanitarian operations cannot be overstated, and efforts to find a peaceful resolution continue amidst the escalating conflict.


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