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Tariff Ultimatum on Iran Trade Sparks Global Tension

                                                Doing Business With Iran? Trump Says Pay a 25% US Tariff. A new 25% tariff threat from President Donald Trump has sent a jolt through international markets, after he declared that any nation continuing to trade with Iran would face steep U.S. penalties. The announcement, delivered abruptly through social media, signaled a sharp escalation in Washington’s effort to isolate Tehran economically. The move comes amid heightened criticism of Iran’s internal crackdown on dissent, which U.S. officials argue warrants stronger international pressure. By targeting not just Iran but its trading partners, the administration aims to force countries—including major global players—to reconsider their economic ties with Tehran. The threat immediately stirred uncertainty across global markets. Oil prices climbed...

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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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