234 mini games No. 5 UCLA stuns No. South Carolina, ends 43-game streak

GRT Jewellers unveils new Rajahmundry Showroom with a Mixed Reality Print AdBy Patricia Zengerle WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. House of Representatives passed a defense policy bill on Wednesday, governing a record $895 billion in annual military spending, despite inclusion of a controversial policy targeting gender-affirming care for transgender children. The tally was 281-140 in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act, or NDAA, sending it for consideration by the Democratic-led U.S. Senate. In addition to the typical NDAA provisions on purchases of military equipment and boosting competitiveness with archrivals like China and Russia, this year's 1,800-page bill focuses on improving the quality of life for the U.S. military. It authorizes a 14.5% pay increase for the lowest-ranking troops, and 4.5% for the rest of the force, which is higher than usual. It also authorizes the construction of military housing, schools and childcare centers. The bill bans the military health program, TRICARE, from covering gender-affirming care for the transgender children of service members if it could risk sterilization. Including the provision in the bill, which sets policy for the Department of Defense, underscored how much attention transgender issues have gotten in U.S. politics and indicated Republicans plan to continue to highlight the politically polarizing topic. President-elect Donald Trump and many other Republicans blasted Democrats for supporting transgender rights during the 2024 election campaign, which ended with Republicans keeping control of the House and taking control of the Senate and White House starting next month. 'WOKE IDEOLOGY' After it passed, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson praised the measure as refocusing the military on its core mission. "Our men and women in uniform should know their first obligation is protecting our nation, not woke ideology," he said in a statement. The measure did not include some other Republican proposals on social issues, including an effort to prohibit TRICARE from covering gender-affirming care for transgender adults and a measure that would have reversed the Pentagon's policy of funding travel for abortion for troops stationed in states where the procedure is banned. The massive bill is one of the few major pieces of legislation that Congress passes every year and lawmakers take great pride in having passed it every year for more than six decades. The bill is a compromise between Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate, reached during weeks of negotiations behind closed doors. House passage sends the measure to the Democratic-led Senate. Passage there would send it to the White House for President Joe Biden to sign into law or veto. The NDAA authorizes Pentagon programs, but does not fund them. Congress must separately pass funding in a spending bill for the fiscal year ending in September 2025. That bill is unlikely to be enacted before March. (Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; Editing by Cynthia Osterman and David Gregorio)

The first round of the Al Shaqab International Showjumping League, which is a qualifier for the FEI Group Seven Championship Final for the categories of Juniors, Young Riders and Youth – is scheduled to take place this Thursday and Friday at the Longines Outdoor Arena at Al Shaqab. The Al Shaqab International League promises to be an exceptional sporting event showcasing the skills of riders in showjumping competitions. The objectives of the league are to create a distinguished platform for riders from various categories, focusing on providing opportunities for young riders, juniors, youth and all riders in general. Registration for the first Al Shaqab International League is open to all members of the Al Shaqab Academy and external riders. The competition will include various categories for different age groups in showjumping. The local categories are as follows: Introductory Class 1 (Height 40cm); Introductory Class 2 (Height 60cm); Introductory Class 3 (Height 80cm); Small Tour (Height 110cm); Amateurs (Height 105cm) The international categories are as follows: Future Champions – Ages 12-14 (Height 105-110cm), qualifying for the FEI Group Seven Championship Final; Junior Champions – Ages 14-18 (Height 115-120cm), qualifying for the FEI Group Seven Championship Final; Youth Champions – Ages 16-21 (Height 125-130cm), qualifying for the FEI Group Seven Championship Final; Al Shaqab Champions - Open Class (Height 130-135cm) CSI1* For detailed information about the Al Shaqab International Showjumping League, including registration details and the competition schedule, visit the official Al Shaqab website at https://alshaqab.com/en/al-shaqab-league and social media platforms. Related Story Activities of 25th Al Bawasil diabetes camp continue Sidra Medicine signs agreement with MSH International

Hydrogen has been called the “ Swiss army knife ” of decarbonisation because it can do many things. But not all of them make sense. Today, the world uses about 100 megatonnes of hydrogen per year (MT/y), but this is produced almost entirely from fossil fuels. To use hydrogen for decarbonisation, we must shift to emissions-free forms. Global forecasts for green hydrogen produced from renewable sources vary widely, ranging from today’s demand (100 MT/y) to an optimistic 700 MT/y by 2050. Bloomberg’s recent 2050 forecast suggests a downward trend. Even so, shifting today’s demand to green hydrogen poses significant challenges. In our research, we use the “ clean hydrogen ladder ” to sort and quantify different uses of green hydrogen. The hydrogen ladder ranks hydrogen applications from ‘unavoidable’ (where it provides the best option for decarbonisation) to ‘uncompetitive’ (where better zero-carbon alternatives exist). Liebreich Associates , CC BY-SA Hydrogen demand in New Zealand Our research shows New Zealand’s total demand for green hydrogen would be around 2.8 Mt/y if all technically feasible applications switched to hydrogen. If we prioritise uses where green hydrogen is the only decarbonisation option, demand would be up to 1 MT/y. Fertiliser, methanol, shipping, steel, jet aviation and long-term energy storage would require about 1 MT/y. Author provided , CC BY-SA Fertiliser and methanol are at the top of the list. They are considered “unavoidable” because there are no other alternatives for decarbonisation. Together, they would require about 0.2 MT/y. Next on the list are things like shipping and jet fuel (through hydrogen-based synthetic fuels), steel production and long-term grid storage. These could add another 0.7 MT/y. At the other end of the ladder is where hydrogen is uncompetitive because there are better alternatives, like battery electric cars or heat pumps. To produce 1 MT/y of green hydrogen, New Zealand would need to triple the installed capacity of renewable power plants and build out a massive 10 GW of electrolysers (devices that uses electricity to obtain hydrogen from water). Long-term hydrogen storage A strategic use of hydrogen is long-duration storage to move cheap solar energy from summer to winter, beyond what hydropower reservoirs can balance. Hydrogen can be stored in complex chemical structures, BBQ-sized tanks and gas tankers (ships). But very large amounts of hydrogen will need to be held underground, with depleted natural gas reservoirs offering the most promising sites. There are several challenges to be addressed to transfer hydrogen into storage at three or more kilometres underground – and get it back up again. First, as a molecule, hydrogen is not well behaved. It tends to flow through materials that might contain it. This means we need to use specialised (expensive) materials along with careful leak detection. Second, recent discoveries of thriving microbial communities in New Zealand’s gas fields raise the prospect of renewable gases becoming a food source for microbes rather than an energy source. Ironmaking Another pressing application for hydrogen is to decarbonise steel production (which accounts for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions ). Today, coal is used to strip oxygen from iron ore and provide combustion heat. Renewable electricity could supply heat and hydrogen to replace coal. The so-called hydrogen-based direct reduced iron (H2-DRI) process is feasible at scale, as demonstrated by Midrex , HYBRIT and POSCO . In collaboration with Victoria University of Wellington, in a project on zero-carbon production of metals , we found that electricity prices below NZ$0.13/kWh are necessary for hydrogen steel making to compete with the standard coal-based process . Solar PV is already significantly below these costs during daytime and close with battery backup. Exporting hydrogen New Zealand’s interim hydrogen roadmap suggests hydrogen exports of about 0.5 MT/y. Meeting domestic hydrogen demand is challenging enough, but export ambitions add another layer of complexity. Hydrogen is difficult to transport because it is a very light gas that takes up a lot of space. But it can be densified. Previous research explored the feasibility of hydrogen exports from New Zealand , looking at cryogenic liquefaction, ammonia conversion and toluene hydrogenation. Liquid hydrogen, while lower in cost, boils at minus 253°C and requires specialised insulated transport vessels, with notable losses expected from boil-off. On top of that, the infrastructure to ship large quantities of liquid hydrogen around the globe does not currently exist. Ammonia, transported at minus 33°C, suffers less from boil-off and is more practical. Next-generation catalysts such as those from Liquium could make ammonia even more favourable. The third option, toluene-MCH, involves higher costs, but is being tested at a commercial scale in Japan. Recent research highlights a fourth alternative, e-methanol produced from green hydrogen . E-methanol is promising because of its modularity and because we already know how to transport and store it. However, other researchers see e-methane as more promising as it could leverage existing port and pipeline infrastructures. The cost of hydrogen In terms of costs, hydrogen has a long way to go. To reduce costs, electrolysers can be scaled up, though this increases equipment expenses and creates a trade-off between capital and operating costs . Additionally, electrolysers rely on expensive and scarce materials like platinum and iridium. Our research focuses on developing low-cost electrolysers by utilising earth-abundant materials. Interestingly, other alternatives for emissions-free hydrogen are emerging. So-called “gold” and “orange” hydrogen (from natural accumulation or enhancement of olivine to serpentine, respectively) are good examples. Tantalisingly, New Zealand’s unique geology offers the potential of both finding “gold” and inducing “orange” hydrogen. Ultimately, the success of hydrogen will depend on competitiveness against alternative solutions, mainly electrification and biofuels. For applications with no easy alternative, emissions-free hydrogen is a direct option. Jannik Haas receives funding from MBIE to work on topics related to energy systems and holds clean energy stocks. Aaron Marshall receives funding from MBIE to work on water electrolysers and energy-related technology. He has received funding from NZIMMR for energy storage technology. He is a co-founder and shareholder of Ternary Kinetics which is developing liquid organic hydrogen carrier technology and has minor shareholdings in a range of energy companies. Andy Nicol receives funding from MBIE to undertake research into underground storage of hydrogen. David Dempsey receives funding from MBIE to undertake research into underground storage of hydrogen. Ian Wright has previously received funding from Natural Environment Research Council (UK) relevant to this topic, and has been a member of the Research Council UK (RCUK) Energy Programme Scientific Advisory Committee. Matthew J Watson receives funding from MBIE. He serves as an advisor to and has ownership stakes in both NILO and Aspiring Materials and holds other publicly traded stocks in the energy sector. Rebecca Peer receives funding from MBIE to research topics related to energy transitions.The man who ended Nadal's career helps the Netherlands beat Germany to reach the Davis Cup finalThe recent protest led by Srinagar Member of Parliament Syed Ruhullah Mehdi for the rationalization of reservation policies in Jammu and Kashmir was nothing short of unprecedented. In an age where power-driven politics often overshadows value-driven politics, Ruhullah Mehdi’s move to stand in solidarity with the protesting youth, even at the cost of defying his party line, is a bold departure from the norm. This protest broke new ground in several ways. It was extraordinary to see a sitting MP from the ruling National Conference, Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, rise above party politics and actively join the demonstrators. In a political culture where allegiance to the party often trumps personal conviction, this was a breath of fresh air. His decision to stand with the students is emblematic of a new kind of leadership—one that values principles over power. Second, the protest saw an unprecedented show of unity among political leaders. Representatives from various parties, including opposition leaders like Waheed Parra, Sheikh Khurshid, Iltija Mufti, stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the students, lending their voices to the cause. This crossing of party lines to address a pressing public issue is a rarity at the time often mired in divisive politics. Third, the protest marked the return of peaceful demonstrations in Kashmir, a sight that had become scarce in recent years. The protest achieved more than just mobilizing people. It brought the issue of reservation to the forefront of political discourse. The demonstrators demanded a rollback of the new reservation policy to its previous status quo, forcing the government to address their grievances. At the same time, the protest also acted as a wake-up call for the government that they can’t leave this issue unaddressed for long. The same Chief Minister, who earlier stated that their government would not operate at the pleasure of agendas set on social media, was compelled to tweet on the same platform to quell the tsunami of anger after Syed Ruhullah Mehdi announced on Twitter that he would protest against his own Chief Minister over the rationalization of reservation. Another remarkable aspect of this protest was its demonstration of intra-party democracy. Mehdi’s dissatisfaction with his government’s inaction on the reservation issue led him to take a stand, even while remaining within the party. This rare display of accountability within party ranks is something the public should aspire to see more of. It is a reminder that political leaders are answerable not just to their parties but also to the people they represent. In response to the protest, a five-member delegation met with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and secured an assurance that a sub-committee would review the reservation policy over the next six months. However, this promise is far from a definitive success. For one, the assurance lacks immediate action. If the Chief Minister was genuinely committed to addressing the issue, he could have halted all ongoing recruitments under the contentious policy until the review was completed. Moreover, six months is a long time, and the delay raises concerns about whether the review will yield any meaningful results. The has been persistent contradiction about the reservation issue among the National conference leaders. While CM assured that cabinate sub-committee woud review the new reservation policy, his minister Javid Rana went on to say that nobody can touch ST-1 and ST-2. Few days ago Education Minister Sakina Yatoo also abstained from commenting on the reservation issue for fear of matter being sub-judice. These contradictions reflect about the confusion with which government is fraught with about reservation issue. These contradictions need to be addressed There is also the looming possibility of judicial intervention. If the courts deliver a verdict on the matter during this six-month period, it could complicate the situation further. The protesting students, therefore, view the Chief Minister’s assurance as merely a starting point in what is likely to be a prolonged struggle. The path to rationalizing reservation policies is fraught with obstacles. While government appears toothless in its ability to conduct a comprehensive review, the judiciary’s role in this matter is limited. Courts can validate or invalidate policies, but they cannot step into the shoes of the legislature to devise new reservation frameworks. And finally, there is little hope for intervention from the central government or the Lieutenant Governor, given their role in increasing the reservation quota earlier this year. Expecting them to reverse their own decision seems unlikely. One of the most critical aspects of this protest is the need to maintain unity. While the demonstrators raised legitimate concerns about the reservation policy, it is essential to ensure that these protests do not create rifts between communities—whether reserved and unreserved, or between regions like Kashmir and Pir Panjal. The right-thinking members of society must work to counter divisive narratives, particularly on social media, where some individuals exploit sensitive issues for personal gain. Unity is paramount, and any rationalization of reservation policies achieved at the cost of societal harmony would be a pyrrhic victory. While the Gupkar protest was significant, it is only the beginning. The verbal assurance of the Chief Minister is insufficient to resolve the issue. The protesters, too, have a long journey ahead. To achieve the desired results, indeed this was the first protest the students did, but I do not think this is not going to be the last. That being said, the government must act decisively and transparently, either by admitting its inability to address the problem because of the fact they are working in a Union Territory or by taking concrete steps toward reform.

Is a Sewage Pump The Same As a Sump Pump? What Type Of Pump Is Best For Raw Sewage? 12-11-2024 09:08 PM CET | Associations & Organizations Press release from: ABNewswire Is a Sewage Pump The Same As a Sump Pump? A sewage pump [ https://www.tkflopumps.com/submersible-sewage-waste-water-submerged-pump-product/]and an industrial sump pump [ https://www.tkflopumps.com/products/ ] are not the same, although they serve similar purposes in managing water. Here are the key differences: Function: Sump Pump: Primarily used to remove water that accumulates in a sump basin, typically in basements or crawl spaces. It handles clean or slightly dirty water, such as groundwater or rainwater. Sewage Water Pump [ https://www.tkflopumps.com/sdh-and-sdv-series-vertical-horizontal-dry-sewage-water-pump-product/]: Designed to handle wastewater that contains solids and sewage. It is used in situations where wastewater needs to be pumped from a lower level to a higher level, such as from a basement bathroom to the main sewer line. Design: Sump Pump: Generally has a simpler design and is not built to handle solids. It typically has a smaller motor and is more compact. Sewage Pump: Built with a more robust design to handle solids and debris. It often has a larger motor and features like a grinder or impeller to break down solids. Applications: Sump Pump: Used in residential settings to prevent flooding and manage groundwater. Sewage Pump: Used in both residential and commercial settings, particularly in areas where gravity drainage is not possible, such as in basements with bathrooms. In summary, while both pumps are used for water management, they are designed for different types of water and applications. Can You Use a Sewage Pump In Place Of a Sump Pump Yes, you can use a sewage pump in place of a sump pump, but there are important considerations to keep in mind: Type of Water: Sewage pumps are designed to handle wastewater that contains solids and debris, while sump pumps are typically used for clean or slightly dirty water. If you are dealing with clean water (like groundwater or rainwater), a sump pump is more appropriate. Efficiency: Using a sewage pump for clean water may not be as efficient as using a sump pump, as sewage pumps are built to handle more challenging conditions. They may not operate as effectively or efficiently for the purpose of removing clean water. Cost: Sewage pumps are generally more expensive than sump pumps due to their more robust design and capabilities. If you only need to manage groundwater or rainwater, a sump pump would be a more cost-effective solution. Installation and Maintenance: Ensure that the installation requirements and maintenance needs of a sewage pump align with your specific application. Sewage pumps may require more maintenance due to the nature of the wastewater they handle. Sdh And Sdv Series Vertical Horizontal Dry Sewage Water Pump [ https://www.tkflopumps.com/sdh-and-sdv-series-vertical-horizontal-dry-sewage-water-pump-product/ ] Capacity : 10-4000m/h Head : 3-65m Liquid condition a. Medium temperature: 20~80 b. Medium density 1200kg/mc. PH value of the medium in cast-iron material within 5-9.d. Both pump and motor are integrally structured, the ambient temperature in the place where it works is not allowed over 40 , the RH not over 95%.e. The pump must work within the set head range in general so as to ensure the motor not to be overloaded. Make a note at order if it works in a low head state so as for this company to take a reasonable model selection. Image: https://www.tkflopumps.com/uploads/tkflo-sewage-pump.png This series pump uses single(dual) great flow-path impeller or the impeller with dual or three blades and, with the unique impeller`s structure, has a very good flow-passing performance, and equipped with reasonable spiral housing, is made to be high effective and able to transport the liquids containing solids, food plastic bags etc. long fibers or other suspensions, with the maximum diameter of the solid grains 80~250mm and the fibre length 300~1500mm. SDH and SDV series pump has a good hydraulic performance and a flat power curve and, by testing, each of its performance index reaches the related standard. The product is greatly favoured and evaluated by the users since its being put into the market and evaluated by the users since its being put into the market for its unique efficiency and reliable performance and quality. Can a Sump Pump Pump Vertically? Yes, a sump pump can pump water vertically. In fact, many sump pumps are designed to move water from a lower level, such as a basement, to a higher level, such as outside the home or into a drainage system. The vertical pumping capability depends on the pump's design, power, and specifications. When selecting a sump pump, it's important to consider the vertical lift (the height the pump needs to move water) and the pump's capacity to handle that lift effectively. Some pumps are better suited for higher vertical lifts than others, so checking the manufacturer's specifications is crucial to ensure the pump can meet your needs. Can You Use a Submersible Pump As a Sump Pump? Yes, you can use a submersible pump as a sump pump. In fact, many sump pumps are submersible pumps designed specifically for this purpose. Submersible pumps are designed to be submerged in water, making them ideal for removing water from basements, crawl spaces, or other areas prone to flooding. What Type Of Pump Is Best For Raw Sewage? The best type of pump for raw sewage is a sewage pump. Here are some key features and considerations for selecting a sewage pump: Design: Sewage pumps are specifically designed to handle wastewater that contains solids, debris, and other materials. They typically have a larger impeller and a more robust construction to manage the challenges of pumping raw sewage. Grinder Pumps: In some cases, especially when dealing with larger solids, a grinder pump may be the best option. Grinder pumps have a built-in grinder that shreds solids into smaller pieces, making it easier to pump them through pipes. Submersible vs. Non-Submersible: Sewage pumps can be either submersible (designed to be submerged in the sewage) or non-submersible (installed above the sewage level). Submersible pumps are often preferred for residential applications because they are quieter and more efficient. Flow Rate and Head Pressure: When selecting a sewage pump, consider the required flow rate (how much sewage needs to be pumped) and the head pressure (the vertical distance the sewage needs to be lifted). Make sure the pump you choose can handle the specific requirements of your system. Durability and Material: Look for pumps made from durable materials that can withstand corrosive environments, as raw sewage can be harsh on equipment. Media Contact Company Name: Shanghai Tongke Flow Technology Co., Ltd Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=is-a-sewage-pump-the-same-as-a-sump-pump-what-type-of-pump-is-best-for-raw-sewage ] Country: China Website: https://www.tkflopumps.com/ This release was published on openPR.

What kind of smart watch band material is not to be missed by manufacturers: Soft skin-friendly comfort material for wearables 12-11-2024 09:06 PM CET | Associations & Organizations Press release from: ABNewswire Wristbands are an important component of smartwatches and bracelets. As the wristband is in direct contact with the wrist, the surface feel of the material and its biocompatibility with the skin (no skin sensitisation, etc.) are all aspects to be considered. In addition, the surface texture, style and colour of the wristband design can highlight the personality and grade of the smart bracelet. Therefore, the choice of materials for smart watches and bracelets is very important, so what is the best smart bracelet material? 1. Soft PVC soft PVC feel soft, colourful, and low price, should be said to have many advantages. However, PVC contains halogens, and alcoholic beverage plasticiser events always make people associate PVC with toxic plasticisers (phthalates). Although there are relatively more environmentally friendly PVC, but PVC material has a large smell, for safety and health considerations, the smart bracelet market basically do not consider the use of this material. 2. Silicone Silicone is the top environmentally friendly material. Silicone has excellent elasticity, smooth touch, and is a material that makes consumers feel completely at ease. The processing method is oil pressure moulding, and the material cannot be recycled. The cost is not cheap. 3. TPU TPU material has excellent elasticity, can be injection moulded bonded with another hard plastic PC of the bracelet. The cost is also relatively cheap, the material can be recycled. The disadvantage is that the soft touch is not ideal. For hardness selection, usually above 70A, softer hardness TPU, the required material cost is very high. The introduction of Si-TPV Elastomeric Materials [ https://www.si-tpv.com/3c-technology-material-for-improved-safety-aesthetics-and-comfort-product/ ] has revolutionised the design and function of watch bands. Unlike traditional materials, Si-TPV Elastomeric Materials is a Soft elastic material/ Soft skin-friendly comfort material for wearables [ https://www.si-tpv.com/3c-technology-material-for-improved-safety-aesthetics-and-comfort-product/]/ Sustainable Elastomeric Materials/ Non-tacky Thermoplastic Elastomers/ Plasticizer-free thermoplastic elastomer with Innovative Soft Slip Technology produced through special compatibility technology and dynamic vulcanisation. Si-TPV elastomers offer unique high performance, durability, comfort, stain resistance, safety and aesthetics that are ideal for wearable device design, with a long-lasting, ultra-smooth, skin-friendly feel that is superior to silicone, and is biocompatible and non-irritating and non-sensitising in contact with the skin. Image: https://www.si-tpv.com/uploads/129-300x225.jpg Key benefits of Si-TPV elastomers for watch bands: 1. Optimized Durability: Si-TPV addresses the common weakness of traditional silicone gel materials by offering enhanced resistance to vacuuming, aging, and breakage, ensuring long-lasting durability. 2. Superior Soft Touch Feel: The surface of Si-TPV boasts a unique silky and skin-friendly touch, providing unparalleled comfort for wearers. 3. Improved Abrasion and Scratch Resistance: Si-TPV's superior abrasion and scratch resistance ensure that watch bands retain their pristine appearance, even after prolonged use. 4. Multi-colour matching: Si-TPV can be easily colour-matched with high colour saturation to meet various design preferences, providing unlimited possibilities for customization. 5. No harmful chemicals: Si-TPV does not contain plasticisers or softening oils, featuring zero DMF, environmentally friendly and safe, and eliminating the risk of precipitation or stickiness. 6. No odour, skin-accessible, no risk of sensitisation, ensuring a comfortable wearing experience. Smart watch and bracelet wristbands are available in a wide range of materials, if you want to provide consumers with quality wristbands that combine durability, comfort and aesthetics, SILIKE Si-TPV elastomers will be the optimal solution for you. Trust us, our innovative smart band material solutions will meet your needs, bring you more value and save you more time! Tel: +86-28-83625089 or via email: amy.wang@silike.cn Media Contact Company Name: Chengdu Silike Technology Co.,Ltd. Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=what-kind-of-smart-watch-band-material-is-not-to-be-missed-by-manufacturers-soft-skinfriendly-comfort-material-for-wearables ] Country: China Website: https://www.si-tpv.com/ This release was published on openPR.Meta is facing technical difficulties, leading to disruptions across its social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. According to a CW39 report, user-reported issues on the outage tracking site Downdetector reached over 90,000 for Facebook, more than 60,000 for Instagram, and over 20,000 for Messenger and WhatsApp combined as of this afternoon. The issues appeared to be global in scope affecting users from countries like Brazil, Argentina, and several European nations, as noted in the same CW39 coverage. Downdetector showed that the core complaints for Instagram and Threads pertained to app functionality. Meanwhile, WhatsApp users struggled predominantly with message sending capability and Messenger users faced hurdles logging in—with some exceptions services resumed within the hour as noted by a Fox 26 Houston report. Meta's communication efforts have not gone unnoticed, with an Instagram statement pinpointing the crux of the inconvenience: "We're aware that a technical issue is impacting some users' ability to access our apps," as per Fox 26 Houston . In a similar post by Meta itself which was further elaborated as per CW39 , stating the company is "working to get things back to normal as quickly as possible and are sorry for any inconvenience."

In a clash that could affect the race for the title and promotion, Sunderland are set to host West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday at the Stadium of Light in their 17th Championship fixture of the campaign. The hosts are second in the table with 32 points and drew 1-1 draw with Millwall on Saturday, while the visitors are sixth with 26 points after 16 games and drew 2-2 with Norwich City on November 23. Sunderland are currently level on points with first-placed Leeds, and though both sides have conceded just 12 times, the Black Cats' tally of 26 goals scored is two fewer than the league leaders. These returns mean that Tuesday's hosts rank as the division's third best offensive and joint fourth best defensive team. The Black Cats controlled the first half against Millwall, taking the lead after 10 minutes while limiting their opponents to just one shot, but they eventually succumbed to the Lions in the second half when they conceded a 93rd-minute equaliser. Manager Regis Le Bris suggested that his side would have taken three points against Millwall had the team used the ball better, telling reporters: ""We won the first contacts often and after the second ball, we often were not able to keep the ball when it was possible. We had a big space to exploit, as was the case just before the equaliser." Le Bris's players have not experienced defeat in their last nine games, but they have failed to achieve victory in any of their past four matches. Sunderland have also drawn two of their three most recent fixtures at the Stadium of Light, though they are unbeaten in their seven home games this term, winning five. Opponents West Brom produced double Norwich's total of 11 shots, though both teams had an equal share of possession and created two big chances. Manager Carlos Corberan said that he believed his team edged proceedings, but noted his displeasure with his side's defensive display, saying: "The team has taken a positive step in attack but at the same time we have suffered more chances and goals than we want to suffer in the first half." The Baggies occupy the final promotion playoff spot in the Championship thanks to having better goal difference than seventh-placed Watford. Interestingly, while West Brom's return of 18 goals scored is the worst among the sides in the top 13, their record of 11 goals conceded is only bettered by third-placed Sheffield United and fourth-placed Burnley. Corberan will be alarmed by the Baggies' form, as while they have not lost in eight games, they failed to score on four occasions in that period, drawing seven times. West Brom have also only won once in their five most recent away outings, losing once and being held to a stalemate three times. The hosts will be unable to call upon forwards Ahmed Abdullahi and Ian Poveda , while Aaron Connolly is a doubt due to a knock. In their absence, Eliezer Mayenda , Milan Aleksic and Tom Watson could start behind striker Wilson Isidor . Sunderland are also set to be without defenders Jenson Seelt and Niall Huggins , as well as midfielder Salis Abdul Samed , so expect to see a backline consisting of Luke O'Nien , Chris Mepham , Daniel Ballard and Ajibola-Joshua Alese . However, Jobe Bellingham is set to return after serving the last of his three-match suspension against Millwall, and he will almost certainly partner Dan Neil in a double pivot. West Brom will have to cope with the absence of right-back Darnell Furlong , who is suspended as a result of accumulating too many yellow cards, and he may be replaced by Reece Hall . Centre-backs Kyle Bartley , Patrick McNair and Semi Ajayi are unlikely to appear again until early December, and perhaps the away side will deploy Mason Holgate and Torbjorn Heggem in the heart of defence. Striker Daryl Dike has also been ruled out until the middle of next month, and this could mean Karlan Grant and Josh Maja continue to lead the forward line. Sunderland possible starting lineup: Patterson; O'Nien, Mepham, Ballard, Alese; Bellingham, Neil; Mayenda, Aleksic, Watson; Isidor West Bromwich Albion possible starting lineup: Palmer; Hall, Holgate, Heggem, Styles; Fellows, Molumby, Mowatt, Johnston; Maja, Grant Despite West Brom scoring twice last time out, they have found difficulties in front of goal recently and it would not be surprising if they failed to score once again. However, Sunderland have struggled for victories in the past weeks and though the hosts will no doubt be buoyed by their home crowd, Tuesday's clash will likely be a close affair. For data analysis of the most likely results, scorelines and more for this match please click here .Stock market today: Wall Street gets back to climbing, sending Nasdaq to a recordWhat are 'Pink tote lid moments'? Dark TikTok trend explained

The TOI Entertainment Desk is a dynamic and dedicated team of journalists, working tirelessly to bring the pulse of the entertainment world straight to the readers of The Times of India. No red carpet goes unrolled, no stage goes dark - our team spans the globe, bringing you the latest scoops and insider insights from Bollywood to Hollywood, and every entertainment hotspot in between. We don't just report; we tell tales of stardom and stories untold. Whether it's the rise of a new sensation or the seasoned journey of an industry veteran, the TOI Entertainment Desk is your front-row seat to the fascinating narratives that shape the entertainment landscape. Beyond the breaking news, we present a celebration of culture. We explore the intersections of entertainment with society, politics, and everyday life. Read More From Deepika Padukone to Kareena Kapoor: Christmas-worthy red outfits worn by Bollywood divas Ranthambore's 10 safari zones: A guide to guaranteed tiger sightings Karisma Kapoor's saree fusion redefines the ultimate fashion statement 9 reasons to include moringa leaves in your diet on a daily basis Janhvi Kapoor gears up for a glamorous Christmas celebration 10 signs your employees are losing interest in their jobs Baby names based on adorable names of Jesus Christ ​10 classics that resonate the true spirit of Christmas​ Christmas 2024: How to make Coffee Walnut Cake for the special feastZURICH — Saudi Arabia was officially confirmed Wednesday by FIFA as host of the 2034 World Cup in men's soccer, giving the oil-rich kingdom its biggest prize yet for massive spending on global sports driven by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Saudi bid was the only candidate and was acclaimed by the applause of more than 200 FIFA member federations. They took part remotely in an online meeting hosted in Zurich by the soccer body's president Gianni Infantino. "The vote of the congress is loud and clear," said Infantino, who had asked officials on a bank of screens to clap their hands at head level to show their support. The decision was combined with approving the only candidate to host the 2030 World Cup. Spain, Portugal and Morocco will co-host in a six-nation project, with Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay each getting one of the 104 games. The South American connection will mark the centenary of Uruguay hosting the first World Cup in 1930. The decisions complete a mostly opaque 15-month bid process which Infantino helped steer toward Saudi Arabia without a rival candidate, without taking questions, and which human rights groups warn will put the lives of migrant workers at risk. "We look forward to hosting an exceptional and unprecedented edition of the FIFA World Cup by harnessing our strengths and capabilities to bring joy to football fans around the world," Prince Mohammed said in a statement. FIFA and Saudi officials have said hosting the 2034 tournament can accelerate change, including more freedoms and rights for women, with Infantino on Wednesday calling the World Cup a "unique catalyst for positive social change and unity." "I fully trust our hosts to address all open points in this process, and deliver a World Cup that meets the world's expectations," the FIFA president said. An international collective of rights groups said FIFA made a "reckless decision" to approve Saudi Arabia without getting public assurances, and the Football Supporters Europe group said it was "the day football truly lost its mind." A fast-track path to victory was cleared last year by FIFA accepting the three-continent hosting plan for the 2030 World Cup. It meant only soccer federations in Asia and Oceania were eligible for the 2034 contest, and FIFA gave countries less than four weeks to declare a bid. Only Saudi Arabia did. The win will kick off a decade of scrutiny on Saudi labor laws and treatment of workers mostly from South Asia needed to help build and upgrade 15 stadiums, plus hotels and transport networks ahead of the 104-game tournament. Amnesty International said awarding the tournament to Saudi Arabia represents "a moment of great danger" for human rights. "FIFA's reckless decision to award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia without ensuring adequate human rights protections are in place will put many lives at risk," said Steve Cockburn, Amnesty International's Head of Labor Rights and Sport." One of the stadiums is planned to be 350 meters (yards) above the ground in Neom — a futuristic city that does not yet exist — and another named for the crown prince is designed to be atop a 200-meter cliff near Riyadh. During the bid campaign, FIFA has accepted limited scrutiny of Saudi Arabia's human rights record that was widely criticized this year at the United Nations. Saudi and international rights groups and activists warned FIFA it has not learned the lessons of Qatar's much-criticized preparations to host the 2022 World Cup. "At every stage of this bidding process, FIFA has shown its commitment to human rights to be a sham," Cockburn said. The kingdom plans to spend tens of billion of dollars on projects related to the World Cup as part of the crown prince's sweeping Vision 2030 project that aims to modernize Saudi society and economy. At its core is spending on sports by the $900 billion sovereign wealth operation, the Public Investment Fund, which he oversees. "It's amazing. The infrastructure, the stadiums, the conditions for the fans and everything. After what I see, I'm more convinced that 2034 will be the best World Cup ever," Cristiano Ronaldo said in a recorded package posted on X. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has been part of Saudi Arabia's lavish spending on soccer — stunning the sport when agreeing to sign for Al Nassr in 2022 for a record-breaking salary reportedly worth up to $200 million a year. Critics have accused Saudi Arabia of "sportswashing" the kingdom's reputation. The prince, known as MBS, has built close working ties to Infantino since 2017 — aligning with the organizer of sport's most-watched event rather than directly confronting the established system as it did with the disruptive LIV Golf project. The result for Saudi Arabia and FIFA has been smooth progress toward the win Wednesday with limited pushback from soccer officials, though some from women international players. The steady flow of Saudi cash into international soccer is set to increase. FIFA created a new and higher World Cup sponsor category for state oil firm Aramco, and Saudi funding is set to underwrite the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States that is a pet project for Infantino. North American soccer body CONCACAF signed a multi-year deal with PIF, Saudi stadiums host Super Cup games for Italy and Spain, and nearly 50 FIFA member federations have signed working agreements with Saudi counterparts. Lavish spending by PIF-owned Saudi clubs in the past two years buying and paying players – including Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Karim Benzema and Sadio Mané – put hundreds of millions of dollars into European soccer. That influence could be key in talks to agree which months to play the 2034 World Cup. The November-December slot taken by Qatar in 2022 to avoid extreme midsummer heat is complicated in 2034 by the holy month of Ramadan through mid-December and Riyadh hosting the multi-sport Asian Games. Still, January 2034 could be an option — and likely better for European clubs and leagues —after the International Olympic Committee said it saw few issues in clashing with the Salt Lake Winter Games opening Feb. 10, 2034. The IOC also has a major commercial deal with Saudi Arabia, to host the new Esports Olympics. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

Telegram's algorithm promotes extremist content: studyBy David Shepardson WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The United States must do more to address hacking threats after China's alleged efforts known as Salt Typhoon to infiltrate American telecommunications companies and steal data about U.S. calls, senators said at a hearing Wednesday. "This attack likely represents the largest telecommunications hack in our nation's history," said Senator Ben Ray Lujan, a Democrat who chairs a telecom subcommittee. "There's a lot that we still don't know about the damage that was done by the Salt Typhoon hacks, but what we do know is that more must be done to prevent attacks like this." Republican Senator Ted Cruz said the "attack from a state-actor against our nation’s infrastructure will not be the last. We must plug any vulnerabilities in communications networks." U.S. agencies held classified briefings for the Senate and the House of Representatives over the last week about the hacking incident. Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel last week proposed requiring telecom firms to submit an annual certification attesting that they have a plan in place to protect against cyberattacks. Lujan said federal agencies' outstanding recommendations "must be fully implemented across our networks." Republican Senator Dan Sullivan said in briefings U.S. officials focused on defense efforts to address Chinese hacking. "What about offense?" he asked. "What about deterrence?" The White House last week said at least eight telecommunications and infrastructure firms in the United States had been impacted and a large number of Americans' metadata has been stolen in the sweeping cyber espionage campaign. Chinese officials have previously described the allegations as disinformation and said Beijing "firmly opposes and combats cyber attacks and cyber theft in all forms." The House is set to vote Wednesday on an annual defense bill that includes nearly $3.1 billion for U.S. telecom companies to remove equipment made by Chinese telecoms firms Huawei and ZTE from American wireless networks. The FCC says removing the insecure equipment is estimated to cost $4.98 billion but Congress previously only approved $1.9 billion for the "rip and replace" program. U.S. officials previously alleged hackers targeted Verizon, AT&T, Lumen and others, and stole telephone audio intercepts along with a large tranche of call record data. (Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Stephen Coates)

World News | Bethlehem Marks Second Subdued Christmas Eve During War in Gaza

Another competitive showing from the Minnesota Timberwolves saw them come up just short against the Boston Celtics . The last time the Minnesota Timberwolves won in TD Garden against the Boston Celtics was 2005. The Celtics won out 107-105 in a competitive game on November 24, ensuring their long winning streak over the Timberwolves stays intact. Jaylen Brown scored 29 and Jayson Tatum 26 as the Celtics came out hot and refused to relinquish their advantage, despite Minnesota’s best efforts to keep the game close. Jayson Tatum’s shooting range is back The Celtics won their previous game against the struggling Washington Wizards, in the NBA Cup , without being at their most efficient. Jayson Tatum had a very poor night, scoring only 16 points, and going 0 for 10 from the three point range. Against the Timberwolves , Tatum showed he was back. He went 5 for 12 on three-pointers, showing his performance against the Wizards was just an aberration. Tatum’s shooting left Celtics broadcast commentator Brian Scalabrine blown away, with the former Boston player praising his quick release and accuracy. Speaking in the third quarter about how quickly Tatum is able to get into position from range, Scalabrine said: “People don’t understand how difficult it is to pick and pop, and get right into your shot. “The fact he can check the ball and make a play from there, it is really tough to stop that play.” He was also impressed by the height Tatum got on a shot that evaded the defense of Rudy Gobert. Scalabrine said, after watching it on replay: “I don’t know how he got this one off, it’s like he shot through his hand. When I watched it live, I thought ‘for sure he is blocking this shot’.” Jaylen Brown was the star While Jayson Tatum’s improved three-point shooting was one of the stories of the game, Jaylen Brown managed to outdo him. Brown scored the Celtics’ first 15 points of the game with five consecutive three point shots. He tried to follow it up with a sixth – but an airball followed. He scored a vital three late in the fourth that extended the Celtics’ lead, ending the night 7 for 10, and 29 in total. The win moves the Celtics to 14-3 for the season, while the Timberwolves now fall to 8-8, having suffered a surprise loss to the Raptors days earlier. This win tops a good week for the Celtics, who beat the Cavaliers in the NBA Cup , and they now have a break until Thursday when they face the Chicago Bulls . This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.ZURICH — Saudi Arabia was officially confirmed Wednesday by FIFA as host of the 2034 World Cup in men's soccer, giving the oil-rich kingdom its biggest prize yet for massive spending on global sports driven by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Saudi bid was the only candidate and was acclaimed by the applause of more than 200 FIFA member federations. They took part remotely in an online meeting hosted in Zurich by the soccer body's president Gianni Infantino. "The vote of the congress is loud and clear," said Infantino, who had asked officials on a bank of screens to clap their hands at head level to show their support. The decision was combined with approving the only candidate to host the 2030 World Cup. Spain, Portugal and Morocco will co-host in a six-nation project, with Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay each getting one of the 104 games. The South American connection will mark the centenary of Uruguay hosting the first World Cup in 1930. The decisions complete a mostly opaque 15-month bid process which Infantino helped steer toward Saudi Arabia without a rival candidate, without taking questions, and which human rights groups warn will put the lives of migrant workers at risk. "We look forward to hosting an exceptional and unprecedented edition of the FIFA World Cup by harnessing our strengths and capabilities to bring joy to football fans around the world," Prince Mohammed said in a statement. FIFA and Saudi officials have said hosting the 2034 tournament can accelerate change, including more freedoms and rights for women, with Infantino on Wednesday calling the World Cup a "unique catalyst for positive social change and unity." "I fully trust our hosts to address all open points in this process, and deliver a World Cup that meets the world's expectations," the FIFA president said. An international collective of rights groups said FIFA made a "reckless decision" to approve Saudi Arabia without getting public assurances, and the Football Supporters Europe group said it was "the day football truly lost its mind." A fast-track path to victory was cleared last year by FIFA accepting the three-continent hosting plan for the 2030 World Cup. It meant only soccer federations in Asia and Oceania were eligible for the 2034 contest, and FIFA gave countries less than four weeks to declare a bid. Only Saudi Arabia did. The win will kick off a decade of scrutiny on Saudi labor laws and treatment of workers mostly from South Asia needed to help build and upgrade 15 stadiums, plus hotels and transport networks ahead of the 104-game tournament. Amnesty International said awarding the tournament to Saudi Arabia represents "a moment of great danger" for human rights. "FIFA's reckless decision to award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia without ensuring adequate human rights protections are in place will put many lives at risk," said Steve Cockburn, Amnesty International's Head of Labor Rights and Sport." One of the stadiums is planned to be 350 meters (yards) above the ground in Neom — a futuristic city that does not yet exist — and another named for the crown prince is designed to be atop a 200-meter cliff near Riyadh. During the bid campaign, FIFA has accepted limited scrutiny of Saudi Arabia's human rights record that was widely criticized this year at the United Nations. Saudi and international rights groups and activists warned FIFA it has not learned the lessons of Qatar's much-criticized preparations to host the 2022 World Cup. "At every stage of this bidding process, FIFA has shown its commitment to human rights to be a sham," Cockburn said. The kingdom plans to spend tens of billion of dollars on projects related to the World Cup as part of the crown prince's sweeping Vision 2030 project that aims to modernize Saudi society and economy. At its core is spending on sports by the $900 billion sovereign wealth operation, the Public Investment Fund, which he oversees. "It's amazing. The infrastructure, the stadiums, the conditions for the fans and everything. After what I see, I'm more convinced that 2034 will be the best World Cup ever," Cristiano Ronaldo said in a recorded package posted on X. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has been part of Saudi Arabia's lavish spending on soccer — stunning the sport when agreeing to sign for Al Nassr in 2022 for a record-breaking salary reportedly worth up to $200 million a year. Critics have accused Saudi Arabia of "sportswashing" the kingdom's reputation. The prince, known as MBS, has built close working ties to Infantino since 2017 — aligning with the organizer of sport's most-watched event rather than directly confronting the established system as it did with the disruptive LIV Golf project. The result for Saudi Arabia and FIFA has been smooth progress toward the win Wednesday with limited pushback from soccer officials, though some from women international players. The steady flow of Saudi cash into international soccer is set to increase. FIFA created a new and higher World Cup sponsor category for state oil firm Aramco, and Saudi funding is set to underwrite the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States that is a pet project for Infantino. North American soccer body CONCACAF signed a multi-year deal with PIF, Saudi stadiums host Super Cup games for Italy and Spain, and nearly 50 FIFA member federations have signed working agreements with Saudi counterparts. Lavish spending by PIF-owned Saudi clubs in the past two years buying and paying players – including Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Karim Benzema and Sadio Mané – put hundreds of millions of dollars into European soccer. That influence could be key in talks to agree which months to play the 2034 World Cup. The November-December slot taken by Qatar in 2022 to avoid extreme midsummer heat is complicated in 2034 by the holy month of Ramadan through mid-December and Riyadh hosting the multi-sport Asian Games. Still, January 2034 could be an option — and likely better for European clubs and leagues —after the International Olympic Committee said it saw few issues in clashing with the Salt Lake Winter Games opening Feb. 10, 2034. The IOC also has a major commercial deal with Saudi Arabia, to host the new Esports Olympics. Get local news delivered to your inbox!HC dissatisfied with Nagrota cattle pound functioning

Did y’all see the most athletic thing anyone has done on an NFL field this year in Sunday night’s game between the Bucs and the Cowboys? Vita Vea brought the BOOM : #TBvsDAL on NBC/Peacock : Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/tfwR1lOS0Z In a game that finished with a flurry of just the most incredible moments, this moment by Vea stands out. The Bucs are down two and it’s 3rd and 6 with two minutes left in the game. Because Tampa has one timeout, if Dallas gets this first down the game is essentially over. Tampa brings a simulated pressure, but Dallas beats it (a trend from Sunday night) with a quick throw to TE Jake Ferguson in the flat. Most times, this play ends in a first down and the game is over. BUT NOT ON VITA VEA’S WATCH. Vita Vea. Athlete. pic.twitter.com/l1NXc5JlbQ This is the most incredible play you’ll see in the NFL this year. Vea is listed at 347 pounds, and he’s coming from the other side of the field to make this play. I repeat. 347 POUNDS. FROM THE OTHER SIDE OF THE FIELD. The play is even crazier in the All-22! The Bucs have seven potential blitzers lined up at or near the line of scrimmage, but with Dallas in a 3x1 formation to the left, if the Bucs are blitzing, someone is going to have to come from the other side of the field. Tampa drops both Vea and EDGE Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, but JTS has to get under a potential CeeDee Lamb route from the single receiver side. This leaves Vea in the middle of the field, and this is a great call by Dallas. The quick throw to the flat gets the ball out of the QBs hands vs the pressure, and Ferguson makes the first man miss! But Vea has other plans, and decides to end this play by doing something that not even Isaac Newton believed was possible. Vea reached 14.91 miles per hour on this tackle, which is an ungodly amount considering he’s at least 100 pounds heavier than 95% of the people on the field. He hits Ferguson like a tsunami on this play, which could’ve been the play that the Bucs used to win the game. It’s another reminder that the greatest athletes in the world are the defensive and offensive linemen, because they do things that no other human should be able to do on a down to down basis. This isn’t even the first time Vea has dropped into coverage in his career! Because of all the wonky pressures Bowles will send, Vea will drop into underneath areas and do shit like this: This is insane: 350-pound NT Vita Vea *drops into coverage* and forces an Aaron Jones fumble on the 1-yard line to prevent a TD. Elite athlete. ( : @NFL ) pic.twitter.com/bNV3sCW0RV Cherish these moments from Vita Vea, one of the most unique athletes we’ll see in the NFL.The first time French police informed the Chechen refugee that he was prohibited from leaving the northeastern city of Strasbourg and must check in with them daily, he did not think it worth contesting the order. France was in the midst of a massive security operation for the summer Olympic Games, he explained, and he did not think authorities would listen to someone identified as a potential threat because of interactions with people identified as “pro-Jihadist”. But when the ministry of interior extended the order in late August to help protect a famed Christmas market that was the target of a deadly attack in 2018, the refugee, known to friends as Khaled, appealed to the city's administrative court. A panel of judges concluded the measures were “disproportionate”, saying in an October 3 decision seen by Reuters that he has no criminal record and was not under investigation for any crime. While they kept in place a prohibition on attending the Strasbourg Christmas market, they lifted the other measures. But the ruling came too late for the 20-year-old to enrol in a college where he was due to start a cybersecurity course in September, according to evidence submitted by his lawyer. “I lost my place. This year has gone to waste,” Khaled told Reuters, speaking on condition that he be identified by the nickname, because he fears his academic and career aspirations would be derailed if it becomes known he is being monitored by police. Friday's deadly car-ramming attack at a Christmas market in the German city of Magdeburg has prompted renewed scrutiny in a number of European countries of security arrangements for the seasonal markets, which draw large crowds. But the French interior ministry's broad use of powers introduced under a 2017 anti-terror law to strictly limit the movements of individuals deemed a serious security threat was already drawing criticism from some lawyers and human rights activists before the attack. At least 547 such orders were issued against people for the Paris Olympics, according to a parliamentary report published on December 11, even though some, like Khaled, had never faced criminal charges. Now, some lawyers and activists are concerned that the wider use of these orders, known as an “individual measure of administrative control and surveillance” or by the French acronym MICAS, could become the norm for other major public events. The interior ministry, which is in charge of police, and the local authority for the Bas-Rhin region, which includes Strasbourg, did not answer questions about those targeted because of the Christmas market. Reuters has identified at least 12 cases, based on court documents, interviews with lawyers and one of the people concerned. At least 10 had no terror-related convictions, though one person had been barred from the market before. Reuters could not immediately determine those details for the other two. In the first five years after the anti-terror law took effect on November 1, 2017, the number of MICAS orders issued for any reason in Bas-Rhin did not exceed seven in any 12-month period, according to figures provided by the interior ministry to parliament. Courts nationally have cancelled or suspended at least 57 of this year's Olympics and Christmas market-related orders, according to the December parliamentary report and a Reuters review of appeals filed with the Strasbourg court. “The Olympics were a MICAS free-for-all, and so now I have the impression that the interior ministry is sort of unrestrained for any event that attracts hundreds of thousands,” said David Poinsignon, a lawyer representing four people hit with MICAS orders for the games, two of whom had them extended for the Christmas market. He is especially worried about cases involving people with no terrorism-related convictions, saying: “It has almost become an instrument of predictive justice.” Ben Saul, UN special rapporteur on counter-terrorism and human rights, said France should use MICAS orders sparingly, “to address a credible risk of terrorism where less intrusive means would not be sufficient.” “Since they may be imposed without the robust fair trial safeguards of a criminal trial, there is a greater risk of abuse, arbitrariness or discrimination,” he told Reuters. The interior ministry did not comment. Former interior minister Gerald Darmanin said in July that the measures were only being used for people he described as “very dangerous” and potentially able to carry out attacks. TOUGHER SECURITY LAWS The introduction of MICAS orders was part of a steady toughening of French security laws over the past decade as President Emmanuel Macron's government responded to deadly attacks and a growing political threat from the far-right. Until recently, the measures were mainly used to monitor people after prison sentences. Reuters could not obtain data for last year. But former inmates accounted for 79% of the 136 MICAS orders issued in the year ending in October 2022, according to figures from an unpublished interior ministry report, which was submitted to parliament in 2023 and verified by two sources. An intelligence source, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss security matters, said in November that MICAS orders had proven effective during the Olympics, and authorities would take the same no-risk approach towards those who might target Christmas markets. A tradition dating back to the Middle Ages, many towns host the festive markets, which feature stalls offering gifts, decorations and treats such as pretzels and mulled wine. The one in Strasbourg is France’s oldest and biggest, attracting some 3-million visitors last year. In 2018, a gunman opened fire there, killing five people and wounding 11 others. The assailant was on a security watch list and had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State militant group. The suspect in the Magdeburg attack, which killed at least five people and injured scores, is a 50-year-old psychiatrist from Saudi Arabia who has lived in Germany for nearly two decades. The motive remains unclear. Investigators are probing the suspect's criticism of the treatment of Saudi refugees in Germany, among other things. He also has a history of anti-Islamic rhetoric and has voiced support on social media platform X for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. RISE IN APPEALS As French authorities have expanded their use of MICAS orders, they have faced more successful court challenges. As of November, judges across the country had cancelled or suspended 50 Olympics-related MICAS orders, about 9%, according to the parliamentary report. That was “often because of insufficient evidence of a threat” in the intelligence reports used to justify the measures, it said. There have also been at least seven successful appeals against measures issued for the Christmas market, according to lawyers and records from the Strasbourg court. In the first five years after MICAS orders were introduced, 13 out of 1,203 orders, 1%, were successfully appealed, according to the interior ministry's 2023 report. Nicolas Klausser, a legal scholar from France's National Centre for Scientific Research who studies MICAS cases, said the increase could be partly a product of the growing number of appeals, but the widening profile of those targeted was likely a significant factor. They include people who may know someone with a terrorism-related conviction, or who made statements about Israel's war in Gaza described by authorities as an “apology for terrorism”, but who do not have criminal records themselves, Klausser said. In Khaled's case, intelligence reports reviewed by Reuters said he spent time with a person convicted of associating with a group planning a terrorist act and another convicted of “apology for terrorism”. Khaled said these were people he knew from the neighbourhood where he grew up or a gym he frequents, but he was not close with either of them. The reports also allege relations with other people described as “pro-Jihadist”. Khaled said these were also mostly neighbourhood acquaintances. Three were friends for a time, but they did not discuss violent extremism, he said. In one instance, Khaled is said to have told a friend that a “dirty trick was being prepared, and he was going to be frankly delighted”. The conversation took place on the eve of the 2020 assassination of a French secondary schoolteacher who showed his pupils caricatures of the Prophet Mohammad during a class on free speech, according to the intelligence reports. Khaled denies he said that. The conversation was about a wedding, he told Reuters, not the assassination of Samuel Paty. His lawyer, Lucie Simon, dismissed the purported remark as “nonsense,” saying no evidence was provided in the intelligence notes, and no charges were brought against her client in connection with the killing. The interior ministry did not comment. Its representatives have said at hearings for other cases that details in the intelligence notes are intentionally vague to protect sources. Khaled said he was shocked and worried when he learnt from a news report that the attack was carried out by a teenager of Chechen origin. “It's the community that's going to pay,” he recalled thinking. On December 6, the interior ministry extended his MICAS order a third time. He appealed, and the court informed his lawyer on Tuesday that it had cancelled the order.Florida State continues torrid star with rout of UMass