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Trump Asks Supreme Court to Delay TikTok Ban, Citing Political Resolution Plans

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Trump Asks Supreme Court to Delay TikTok Ban, Citing Political Resolution Plans

President-elect Donald Trump requested the Supreme Court on Friday to delay the enforcement of a TikTok ban, allowing his incoming administration time to seek a “political resolution” to the matter. 

The appeal comes as TikTok and the Biden administration submitted opposing legal briefs regarding a law that could mandate TikTok’s divestment from its Chinese parent company ByteDance by January 19. TikTok argued the statute violates the First Amendment, while the administration emphasized its stance that the measure is necessary to mitigate national security risks. 

“President Trump takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute. Instead, he respectfully requests that the Court consider staying the Act’s deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025, while it considers the merits of this case,” said Trump’s amicus brief, authored by D. John Sauer, the incoming solicitor general. 

The filing is the latest instance of Trump inserting himself into national policy debates before taking office. Recently, he has negotiated tariff strategies with foreign nations and influenced discussions on federal government funding, sending Republicans back to the negotiating table over a bipartisan plan. 

Trump has also been holding high-profile meetings with foreign leaders and business executives at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, including TikTok CEO Shou Chew. 

During his first term, Trump attempted to ban TikTok over national security concerns. However, during his 2024 presidential campaign, he embraced the platform, using it to engage younger voters through viral content. Despite his current opposition to an outright ban, Trump maintains that the app presents potential security risks. 

The filings come ahead of Supreme Court oral arguments scheduled for January 10 to address whether the TikTok divestment requirement unlawfully restricts speech under the First Amendment. The statute, signed into law by President Joe Biden in April following bipartisan approval in Congress, has faced legal challenges from TikTok and ByteDance. 

Earlier this month, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit upheld the law, prompting TikTok’s appeal to the Supreme Court. 

TikTok’s legal team argued Friday that the appeals court ruling relied on speculative risks of Chinese influence over its U.S. operations. In contrast, the Biden administration’s brief highlighted concerns that ByteDance’s ownership structure could enable Chinese authorities to access user data or manipulate content on the platform. 

The administration acknowledged no evidence exists that China has exploited TikTok for espionage or propaganda but asserted that potential risks justify regulatory action. TikTok countered, stating the government’s concerns are based on hypothetical scenarios rather than proven threats. 

Trump’s brief emphasized his preference for addressing TikTok-related issues through political negotiation once he assumes office. 

Manmohan Singh, India’s Visionary Prime Minister, Passes Away at 92

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Manmohan Singh, India’s Visionary Prime Minister, Passes Away at 92

Manmohan Singh, India’s first Sikh prime minister and a pivotal figure in the nation’s economic transformation, passed away on Thursday at the age of 92. Known as a “reluctant king,” Singh served as prime minister from 2004 to 2014, leaving behind a legacy of economic reforms and inclusive governance. 

Manmohan Singh is credited with leading India through an era of unprecedented economic growth. Under his stewardship, hundreds of millions were lifted out of poverty, and India cemented its position as a global economic player. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, stating, “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders.” 

Born into a modest family in a region of British-ruled India that is now part of Pakistan, Singh’s early life was marked by perseverance. He studied by candlelight, eventually earning a place at Cambridge University and later completing a doctorate at Oxford, focusing on the role of exports and free trade in India’s economy. 

In 1991, Singh emerged as the architect of India’s economic liberalization during his tenure as finance minister. Facing a balance of payments crisis, he introduced reforms that opened India’s economy to global markets, deregulated industries, and set the stage for rapid growth. 

Quoting Victor Hugo in his first budget speech, Singh famously remarked, “No power on earth can stop an idea whose time has come,” referring to India’s rise as a major economic power. 

In 2004, Singh was unexpectedly chosen by Congress Party leader Sonia Gandhi to lead the country. Gandhi, wary of political attacks on her Italian heritage, declined the prime ministership despite her party’s victory and entrusted Singh with the role. 

Singh’s tenure coincided with a period of robust economic growth. His government introduced transformative welfare schemes, including a rural job guarantee program, and brokered a landmark nuclear deal with the United States in 2008, bolstering India-U.S. relations. 

Despite his achievements, Singh’s leadership faced challenges. Political wrangling within the Congress Party and demands from coalition partners often stalled his reform agenda. In his second term, Singh faced criticism over corruption scandals involving members of his government, although his personal integrity remained unquestioned. 

The latter years of his tenure saw economic growth falter amid global economic headwinds and policy stagnation. In 2014, the Congress Party suffered a decisive defeat to the Bharatiya Janata Party under Narendra Modi, who campaigned on promises of economic revival and anti-corruption measures. 

Known for his simple lifestyle and unwavering honesty, Singh remained respected both at home and abroad. Reflecting on his tenure, Singh remarked shortly before leaving office, “I honestly believe that history will be kinder to me than the contemporary media or, for that matter, the opposition parties in parliament.” 

Singh is survived by his wife and three daughters. 

South Korea’s Leadership Crisis: Martial Law Fallout and Impeachment Vote 

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South Korea’s Leadership Crisis: Martial Law Fallout and Impeachment Vote 

South Korea’s acting president, Han Duck-soo, is under the threat of impeachment as the Constitutional Court begins its first hearing regarding President Yoon Suk Yeol’s controversial suspension. Yoon was impeached on December 14 following his declaration of a short-lived martial law, which sent shockwaves through South Korea’s political and economic landscape. 

South Korea’s acting president, Han Duck-soo

This unfolding political turmoil in Asia’s fourth-largest economy has unsettled global allies, including the United States and Europe, who viewed Yoon as a vital partner in addressing regional tensions involving China, Russia, and North Korea. 

President Yoon’s martial law decree, imposed on December 3, banned parliamentary activities, restricted political parties, and placed the military under government control. The decree was rescinded just hours later after lawmakers voted against it, but the move triggered immediate backlash. Yoon’s suspension from office came after a defiant speech questioning election integrity and accusing opponents of collusion with North Korea. 

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assumed the role of acting president after Yoon’s impeachment. However, tensions have escalated as Han refused to appoint three Constitutional Court justices, citing his limited authority as a caretaker leader. The Democratic Party (DP), which holds a majority in parliament, accused Han of obstructing justice and called for his impeachment. 

The DP has clashed with Han over critical issues, including investigations into Yoon’s martial law declaration and the appointment of special prosecutors. Party leaders claim Han’s actions amount to abuse of power, further deepening the leadership crisis. 

Opposition leader Kwon Young-se of Yoon’s People Power Party warned that impeaching Han could spark a financial crisis. The South Korean won has already weakened to its lowest point since 2009, reflecting investor concerns over political instability. 

The Constitutional Court now has 180 days to decide whether to reinstate Yoon or permanently remove him from office. If Yoon is ousted, South Korea must hold a new presidential election within 60 days. 

Yoon has refused to acknowledge court communications, contrasting with the cooperative stances of previous impeached presidents. A court spokesperson confirmed the hearings would proceed regardless of Yoon’s participation. 

If Han is impeached, the finance minister will take over as acting president. Legal experts remain divided over whether a simple majority or two-thirds vote is required for his impeachment. 

The martial law scandal and subsequent impeachment votes have triggered political unrest, undermining confidence in South Korea’s democratic institutions. The country’s economic markets have also been rattled, with analysts warning of prolonged negative sentiment amid uncertainty. 

President Yoon and senior officials now face criminal investigations for insurrection, further complicating the nation’s path toward stability. 

Israel Airstrikes Target Yemen’s Capital as WHO Chief Narrowly Escapes

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Israel Airstrikes Target Yemen’s Capital as WHO Chief Narrowly Escapes

Israeli airstrikes hit Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen on Thursday, including the rebel-held capital of Sanaa and key ports. The strikes came as World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus revealed he was just meters away from the bombardment while preparing to board a flight. 

The WHO chief stated on social media, “The air traffic control tower, the departure lounge — just a few meters from where we were — and the runway were damaged.” He confirmed that U.N. colleagues were safe but noted that the airport damage would delay their departure. U.N. spokesperson Stephanie Tremblay later reported that a crew member from the U.N. Humanitarian Air Service was injured in the attack.

The Israeli military told reporters it was unaware of the presence of the WHO delegation or other U.N. representatives in Yemen during the strikes.

The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed that the strikes targeted infrastructure used by Iran-backed Houthi rebels, including the international airport in Sanaa and ports in Hodeida, Al-Salif, and Ras Qantib. Israeli officials stated the locations were being used to smuggle Iranian weapons and facilitate the arrival of senior Iranian officials. Power stations allegedly supporting these operations were also targeted.

The military noted its ability to “strike very far from Israel’s territory — precisely, powerfully, and repetitively.” The strikes occurred more than 1,000 miles from Jerusalem.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned the Houthis, saying, “The Houthis, too, will learn what Hamas, Hezbollah, and Assad’s regime have learned.” Israel claims its actions are part of a broader effort to counter Iran’s influence and prevent attacks from Tehran’s proxies.

Houthi-controlled media outlet al-Masirah reported multiple casualties from the strikes and showed footage of extensive structural damage, including shattered windows, collapsed ceilings, and bloodstained floors. Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the airstrikes as an escalation of the conflict.

The U.N. highlighted the humanitarian consequences, emphasizing that the targeted ports are vital for the delivery of aid to Yemen, a nation suffering from years of civil war since 2014.

The airstrikes follow days of heightened hostilities. Over the weekend, a Houthi missile injured 16 people in Tel Aviv, while other missile and drone attacks on Israel were intercepted. Last week, Israeli jets struck Sanaa and Hodeida, killing nine people in what was described as a response to prior Houthi attacks.

The Houthis have also increased attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea, framing these actions as support for Palestinians in Gaza. Israel has expressed concern over the growing threats to the critical maritime corridor.

The U.N. Security Council is set to hold an emergency meeting on Monday at Israel’s request. Israel is urging the international community to condemn Houthi attacks and Iran’s involvement in supplying weapons to the rebels.

Hollywood Actress, Blake Lively, Accuses Co-Star Justin Baldoni of Smear Campaign; Publicist’s Lawsuit Supports Claims

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Hollywood Actress, Blake Lively, Accuses Co-Star Justin Baldoni of Smear Campaign; Publicist’s Lawsuit Supports Claims

Blake Lively’s allegations that *It Ends With Us* director and co-star Justin Baldoni orchestrated a smear campaign against her have received backing in a new lawsuit filed by Baldoni’s former publicist, Stephanie Jones. 

Blake Lively poses for photographers upon arrival at the UK Gala Screening for the film ‘It ‘Ends With Us’ on Thursday, August 08, 2024 in London. (Photo by Scott A Garfitt/Invision/AP)

Jones filed the lawsuit Tuesday in New York state court, alleging that Baldoni, 40, and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, conspired to harm Lively’s reputation. According to the suit, this was part of an effort to deflect attention from allegations of toxic and misogynistic behavior during the production of the romantic drama. 

Jones, who represented Baldoni since 2017 under a $25,000-per-month contract starting in 2020, is seeking unspecified damages. The suit also accuses Jennifer Abel, a former employee of Jonesworks, of orchestrating the campaign and stealing over 70 proprietary business documents before leaving the firm to launch her own publicity company. Abel reportedly took Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios as clients when she left. 

The lawsuit claims Abel collaborated with Melissa Nathan, a crisis management expert previously associated with Johnny Depp, to influence media coverage in a way that would harm Lively and Jones. Extracted text messages from Abel’s company phone reportedly provide evidence of these efforts. 

In response, Abel shared emails and messages where she expressed admiration for Jones and denied ill intentions. “I truly view you as family and would be lost without your support,” Abel wrote in one email. Nathan did not respond to requests for comment. 

Last week, Lively filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department, a precursor to a potential lawsuit. She alleges that Baldoni launched a campaign to damage her reputation after she and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, addressed incidents of alleged sexual harassment involving Baldoni and a producer on the film. 

Bryan Freedman, an attorney representing Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios, dismissed Lively’s allegations as “false, outrageous, and intentionally salacious,” asserting that a crisis manager was hired solely due to Lively’s “demands and threats” during production. 

The film, an adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, was released in August and exceeded expectations with a $50 million debut. Total box office sales eventually reached $350 million. Baldoni, known for his work on *Jane the Virgin* and *Five Feet Apart*, has also authored *Man Enough*, a book challenging traditional masculinity norms. 

Russia Arrests Four Suspects in Alleged Plot to Assassinate Military Officers

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Russia Arrests Four Suspects in Alleged Plot to Assassinate Military Officers

Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) announced Thursday the arrest of four individuals accused of plotting to assassinate senior military officers on orders from Ukraine, following last week’s killing of a top Russian general. 

Flowers are attached to the facade of an apartment block in Moscow, Russia, on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024, where a bomb killed Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, the head of Russia’s Radiation, Biological, and Chemical Defense Forces, and his assistant, Ilya Polikarpov. (AP Photo/Dmitry Serebryakov)

The FSB, Russia’s main intelligence agency, revealed in a statement carried by state news agencies that the suspects were preparing to target high-ranking Defense Ministry officials using explosive devices. One plot allegedly involved a car bomb, while another aimed to use an envelope rigged with explosives. The agency did not disclose the identities of the officers targeted. 

The suspects, all Russian citizens, were detained as part of an investigation into the alleged assassination plans. The FSB released footage of their arrest and interrogation but withheld their names. 

The announcement follows the December 17 assassination of Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, head of Russia’s Radiation, Biological, and Chemical Protection Forces. Kirillov was killed by an explosive device concealed on an electric scooter outside his Moscow residence. His assistant also died in the attack, which Ukraine has claimed responsibility for. 

According to the FSB, one suspect arrested in connection with Kirillov’s killing is a citizen of Uzbekistan. Authorities allege he was recruited by Ukrainian intelligence services to carry out the attack. 

Lt. Gen. Kirillov, 54, played a key role in safeguarding Russian forces from nuclear, chemical, and biological threats. His death marks a significant escalation in the conflict, bringing the war’s violence directly to Moscow’s streets. 

Russian President Vladimir Putin described the assassination as a “serious failure” by the country’s security agencies. He called for improved counter-intelligence measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. 

The arrests underscore the growing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as Moscow continues to accuse Kyiv of extending its operations into Russian territory.

AP 

7 Injured After Taxi Crashes into Pedestrians in New York City on Christmas Day

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7 Injured After Taxi Crashes into Pedestrians in New York City on Christmas Day

Seven people, including a nine-year-old boy, were injured on Christmas Day when a yellow taxi jumped a curb and plowed into pedestrians near Macy’s department store in Herald Square, New York. 

The crash occurred around 4 p.m. at the intersection of Avenue of the Americas and West 34th Street, a bustling shopping district known for its holiday displays. Police reported the driver may have suffered a medical episode before losing control of the vehicle. 

Among the injured were a 49-year-old woman with a leg injury, a 41-year-old woman with a head injury, and the nine-year-old boy who sustained a cut. All three were transported to a local hospital. Four other women, aged 19, 37, and 41, along with another 49-year-old, suffered minor injuries, with three declining medical attention. 

The New York Police Department confirmed all injuries were non-life-threatening. Photos from the scene showed the taxi with significant damage, including a ripped-off bumper and dents along its side. 

The NYPD stated that no arrests have been made, and the driver’s identity has not been disclosed. The incident appears to have been accidental, though investigations are ongoing. 

Footage from the scene showed a heavy emergency response, with fire trucks and ambulances converging on the area. Witnesses reported the vehicle’s wheels continued spinning even after the crash, and the hood of the car displayed visible damage. 

Herald Square, home to Macy’s flagship store, is a popular destination for tourists and locals during the holiday season, drawing crowds to view its festive displays. 

Dean Moses, a reporter for *amNewYork*, captured video of the aftermath, describing the taxi as having “jumped the curb.” Eyewitnesses recounted the chaos as pedestrians scrambled to safety. 

Israeli Strike in Gaza Kills 5 Palestinian Journalists, Officials Report

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Israeli Strike in Gaza Kills 5 Palestinian Journalists, Officials Report

An Israeli airstrike overnight killed five Palestinian journalists outside Al-Awda Hospital in the Nuseirat refugee camp, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The Israeli military stated the target was a group of Islamic Jihad militants. 

The strike destroyed a van marked with press insignias, with the shell of the vehicle left incinerated near the hospital. The journalists were affiliated with the local Quds News Network. Funeral services held outside the hospital were marked by grief, with mourners draping the bodies in white shrouds and blue press vests. 

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed the strike targeted militants connected to Islamic Jihad, an ally of Hamas, citing their involvement in attacks during the ongoing conflict. Footage from the scene confirmed the vehicle bore press markings, sparking concerns over journalist safety in the conflict zone. 

The Committee to Protect Journalists reports over 130 Palestinian journalists have died since the war began, highlighting the high risks for media personnel in Gaza. Foreign journalists remain barred from independent reporting in the territory, with access limited to Israeli military embeds. 

Relatives and friends mourn over the bodies of five Palestinian journalists who were killed by an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City at the Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al-Balah, Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)

Israel has accused six Al Jazeera journalists of being militants, though the network denies the allegations, accusing Israel of censorship and attempting to stifle coverage focusing on civilian casualties. 

In separate developments, the IDF announced the death of a 35-year-old reserve soldier during ground operations in central Gaza. The conflict, which erupted after Hamas-led militants launched an October 2023 assault, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. 

Israel reports 389 soldiers killed in Gaza since its ground campaign began, while Gaza’s Health Ministry states over 45,000 Palestinians have died, including a significant number of women and children. Israel claims 17,000 of the fatalities were militants, though evidence has not been provided. 

The war has displaced nearly 90% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, forcing many into overcrowded camps with inadequate shelter against winter conditions. The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate amid the ongoing conflict. 

3 Nigerians Added to FBI Most-Wanted List Over $6M Fraud Scheme

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3 Nigerians Added to FBI Most-Wanted List Over $6M Fraud Scheme

Three Nigerians, Nnamdi Benson, Richard Uzuh, and Felix Okpoh, are now on the FBI’s Most-Wanted list for their alleged roles in a Business Email Compromise (BEC) scheme that defrauded over 70 businesses in the United States of more than $6 million.

Information on the FBI website reveals that the trio is accused of operating as part of a syndicate involved in fraudulent wire transfers, with funds laundered through a global network of accomplices. The scheme targeted businesses across the U.S., using fake emails to impersonate executives and request payments.

Details of the Alleged Scheme

Nnamdi Orson Benson

Benson allegedly provided bank accounts used to funnel proceeds from fraudulent transactions. He is also implicated in romance and advance-fee fraud schemes. A federal court in Nebraska indicted him in August 2019 on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, with an arrest warrant issued on August 22, 2019.

Felix Osilama Okpoh

Okpoh is accused of supplying numerous bank accounts that received over $1 million from fraudulent wire transfers. He faces charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud as part of the same indictment, with a warrant for his arrest issued in August 2019.

Richard Izuchukwu Uzuh

Uzuh is alleged to have spearheaded the scheme, sending spoofed emails to thousands of U.S. businesses to request fraudulent wire transfers. He reportedly worked with Benson, Okpoh, and other conspirators to launder the proceeds. Uzuh was indicted in October 2016, and a warrant for his arrest was issued shortly thereafter.

Extradition of a Co-Conspirator

Earlier this month, Abiola Ayorinde Kayode, a key member of the syndicate, was extradited from Ghana to Nebraska to face charges in connection with the scheme. Kayode had been arrested in Ghana in April 2023, and his extradition followed a formal request from the U.S. government.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nebraska confirmed that Kayode is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and is being prosecuted as part of the ongoing effort to dismantle the cybercrime syndicate.

FBI Investigation and Public Appeal

The FBI has called for public assistance in locating Benson, Uzuh, and Okpoh, urging anyone with relevant information to contact the agency. Efforts to track and apprehend additional members of the network remain ongoing.

Fighter Jet Bombs Sokoto Communities, Many Feared Dead

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Fighter Jet Bombs Sokoto Communities, Many Feared Dead

A Nigerian Air Force airstrike targeting suspected terrorists in Sokoto State’s Silame Local Government Area of Nigeria has reportedly left an unspecified number of villagers dead and several others injured. 

The strike occurred around 7 a.m. Wednesday in the communities of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa, located near the Surame Forest, a known hideout for the Lakurawa terrorist group and other bandits. Residents said more than 10 civilians were killed, with many others sustaining injuries during the operation. 

Silame LGA Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad Daftarana, confirmed the attack but could not provide an exact casualty figure. “The villagers were sitting peacefully when the bombs started dropping on the communities. They were innocent and peace-loving people with no criminal record,” Daftarana said. “It is too early to confirm the exact number of those killed or injured as assessments are ongoing.” 

A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, said the airstrike was based on credible intelligence and surveillance targeting Lakurawa militants. He assured the public that reports of civilian casualties would be investigated thoroughly. “The operation was conducted following multiple intelligence sources and confirmatory aerial surveillance. However, we will investigate claims of civilian harm and provide updates as appropriate,” Akinboyewa said. 

The Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, reiterated that all military operations are guided by rigorous intelligence to minimize civilian impact. Lt. Col. Abubakar Abdullah, Coordinator of the Joint Media Coordination Centre, stated, “Targets struck in the vicinity of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa were positively identified as associated with the Lakurawa group. Misinformation should be avoided to prevent panic and discrediting military efforts against terrorism and banditry.” 

Borno State Attack

In a related incident, insurgents reportedly attacked a Forward Operating Base in the Wajiroko area of Damboa Local Government, Borno State, using drones around 3 p.m. Tuesday. Local sources claimed several troops were injured, with unverified reports suggesting possible fatalities. 

Efforts to confirm the Borno attack from military sources, including the spokesperson for Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. A.Y. Jingina, were unsuccessful as calls went unanswered. 

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