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Khamenei Accuses Trump of Stoking Deadly Unrest in Iran

A demonstrator holds the burning head of an effigy depicting US President Donald Trump during a protest against the US. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has intensified his criticism of the United States, directly accusing President Donald Trump of encouraging the wave of protests that has shaken the country. The demonstrations, which began as economic grievances, quickly expanded into broader political unrest and were met with a forceful response from Iranian security forces. Khamenei framed the turmoil as part of a foreign-backed effort to destabilize the Islamic Republic, arguing that Washington — and Trump personally — sought to inflame tensions and undermine Iran’s stability. Trump had publicly expressed support for the protesters and warned Iran against harsh reprisals, comments that Tehran dismissed as interference. While Iranian leaders attribute the unrest to outside influence, many demonstrators point to long-standing domestic frustrations, including economic h...

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A Symbol of Hope: Tiny Christmas Tree Amidst Church Ruins in Lebanon

 

In the southern Lebanese town of Dardghaya, amidst the ruins of the 18th-century St. George Melkite Catholic Church, a tiny Christmas tree now stands as a symbol of hope and resilience. The church, devastated by an Israeli airstrike in October, once served as a vibrant community center. 

Georges Elia, a 40-year-old municipal worker and churchgoer, took it upon himself to bring some normalcy to the holiday season. "This year, Christmas is arriving with sadness for us, but we didn't want it to be a sad one for the town's residents and its church," Elia said. 

The modest tree, shorter than Elia himself, is decorated with a shining garland and a star. Despite the lack of lights and a traditional Nativity scene due to the war's destruction, the tree stands tall among the fallen stones and shattered pews. "But, of course, Christ is born in our hearts, lit with our love for him," Elia added.

The church's priest, Father Maurice el Khoury, who has served for 11 years, conducts Sunday Mass in a small underground room that once housed visiting bishops. "This room is more like the cave where Jesus was born," he said, reminding families of the true essence of the holiday season.

The community's faith remains unshaken, and despite the staggering financial toll of the damage, estimated at nearly $3 million, they continue to celebrate Christmas with hope and love.



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