New Delhi, Dec 8: Syrian rebel forces have reportedly entered Damascus, marking a key moment in the conflict that began over a decade ago. A resident of the city told CNN that opposition fighters were seen in the Barzeh neighbourhood, where gunfight continues while CNN again quoting a source claimed that “militarily, Damascus has fallen.” India along with several countries have advised their citizens not to travel to Syria in the current situation. The development follows a rapid rebel offensive that has swept across the country, with insurgents capturing Aleppo last week and claiming full control of Homs, Syria’s third-largest city. Residents in Homs were seen tearing down posters of President Bashar al-Assad, evoking the pro-democracy protests of the Arab Spring that first challenged Assad’s rule in 2011. Inside Damascus, reports suggest that rebel forces are positioning themselves in key areas of the city. A resident described scenes of fighters navigating the narrow alleys of Barzeh amid clashes in the area. “The electricity is cut off, the internet is weak, and people are staying indoors,” the resident told CNN. The rebel troops who continued to advance their units had entered the capital in search of President Assad but failed to locate him. While the presidential office and Iranian allies insist Assad remains in the city, U.S. officials believe his regime may be on the brink of collapse. Media also reports that rebel leaders have been in communication with high-ranking Assad regime officers considering defection. Russia and Iran have been asking for an immediate halt to the conflict. The Syrian conflict began in 2011 as peaceful protests against Assad’s government, inspired by the broader Arab Spring. What started as demands for democratic reforms soon transferred into a civil war, with Assad’s forces accused of using chemical weapons, indiscriminate bombings, and arrests to crush dissent. Over the years, the conflict drew in a complex web of regional and international actors. Iran and Russia provided military backing to Assad, while Gulf states, Turkey, and Western nations offered varying levels of support to rebel factions. Amid the chaos, extremist groups like ISIS and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) emerged, further complicating the conflict. Now, with rebel forces reportedly within striking distance of central Damascus, media reports quoting Abu Mohammed al-Julani, the commander of HTS, have declared that the Assad government collapse is imminent. He also pledged protection for civilians in areas under rebel control, though HTS itself has faced criticism for its extremist ideology and harsh governance. The quick advances have triggered a flurry of diplomatic activity. Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Russia, among others, issued a joint statement warning of the conflict’s dangerous escalation and urging a political resolution. The Syrian army, meanwhile, has reinforced positions around Damascus, dismissing claims that Assad has fled. For ordinary Syrians, the latest developments bring both hope and fear. After years of devastating conflict, many are desperate for an end to the violence, but uncertainty looms over what a post-Assad Syria might look like. Rebel unity remains fragile, and the involvement of groups like HTS raises concerns about the potential for further fragmentation and extremism. Syria presently stands at a crossroads once again. For now, the country braces for what could be the most decisive chapter of its long and bloody civil war.Title: Xu Limin: Zhou Qi is now at 30-40% recovery, I believe he can continue to adjust himself

Argentina's Racing wins its first Copa Sudamericana championship by beating Brazil's Cruzeiro 3-1

The decision to dissolve the fan group was met with mixed reactions from Takeshi's supporters, with some expressing disappointment and confusion over her choice. However, Takeshi remained steadfast in her decision, emphasizing the need for a safe and respectful online community for all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs.10,743 Shares in Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) Bought by Jennison Associates LLC

China's Asset Surge Sparks Collective Frenzy among Chinese Concept Stocks As the final buzzer sounded, Beijing emerged victorious with a well-deserved win. The crowd erupted in cheers and applause, recognizing the incredible skill and determination displayed by their team. Zeng Fanbo and Solomon were hailed as heroes, their names etched in the annals of basketball history for their outstanding performance in this crucial game.

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In conclusion, the shift from water fees to water taxes has the potential to transform water management practices and promote sustainable usage of this critical resource. By addressing the concerns of residents, enhancing public awareness, and strengthening regulatory frameworks, China's ongoing experiment with water taxes can serve as a model for other regions seeking to achieve water security and conservation goals in an era of growing environmental challenges.

With the "Oath" update, players can look forward to a new era of NPC companionship in gaming. Gone are the days of incessant chatter and meaningless banter. The future of NPC companions is smart, intuitive, and engaging. So take the oath, and embark on a thrilling adventure with your new and improved NPC companion by your side.

Landmark lawsuit brought on behalf of thousands of survivors of child sexual abuse images and videos (CSAM) traded on Apple platforms CUPERTINO, Calif. , Dec. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- This weekend, a class action lawsuit was filed against Apple on behalf of thousands of survivors of child sexual abuse for knowingly allowing the storage of images and videos documenting their abuse on iCloud and the company's defectively designed products. The lawsuit alleges that Apple has known about this content for years, but has refused to act to detect or remove it, despite developing advanced technology to do so. The plaintiffs are being represented by Marsh Law Firm. Additionally, Heat Initiative is providing some support for this lawsuit as part of the organization's broader Ignite program , which provides legal and advocacy support for victims of child sexual abuse through referrals, research, and funding to empower them to use their voices and hold technology companies accountable. The images and videos of the plaintiffs' childhood sexual abuse, which have been stored thousands of times, would have been identified and removed had Apple implemented its 2021 "CSAM Detection" technology. However, Apple terminated the program after its announcement. Other leading technology providers have been proactively detecting and reporting illegal child sex abuse images and videos for more than a decade. Apple's belated efforts, and subsequent cancellation, leave it among the very few major platforms that do not engage in proactive detection and removal. The full complaint, as well as a fact sheet and other supporting materials, can be found HERE . "The knowledge that images of my abuse are still out there is a never-ending nightmare – Apple could have stopped this, but has chosen not to act," said Jane Doe , a plaintiff in the lawsuit. "Apple has the technology to stop this from continuing, yet they knowingly turn a blind eye. This isn't just about my story – it's about standing up for every survivor who deserves safety and dignity. Apple has a responsibility to protect us, and I'm here to demand that they fulfill it." "Today, thousands of brave survivors are coming forward to demand accountability from one of the most successful technology companies on the planet. Apple has not only rejected helping these victims, it has advertised the fact that it does not detect child sex abuse material on its platform or devices thereby exponentially increasing the ongoing harm caused to these victims," said Margaret E. Mabie , Partner at Marsh Law Firm, representing the plaintiffs. "Our clients have endured unimaginable abuse, and yet Apple's top executives continue to ignore their pleas, fully aware that this illegal contraband remains on their platform. By abandoning their state-of-the-art detection program without offering an alternative, Apple has chosen to prioritize its own corporate agenda over the lives and dignity of survivors. This lawsuit is a call for justice and a demand for Apple to finally take responsibility and protect these victims." "Apple wants people to think they are the 'responsible' tech company, and this lawsuit demonstrates clearly that, on this issue, they are not," said Sarah Gardner , Founder and CEO of the Heat Initiative, an organization dedicated to encouraging leading technology companies to combat child sex abuse on their platforms. "The plaintiffs and countless other survivors of child sexual abuse are forced to relive the worst moments imaginable because Apple refuses to implement common sense practices that are standard across the tech industry. They will argue that this is a privacy issue, but they are failing to acknowledge the privacy and basic humanity of the children being raped and sexually assaulted in the videos and images Apple stores on iCloud." In August 2021 , Apple announced it would implement a new "CSAM Detection" feature, which would have identified known child sexual abuse material in iCloud using NeuralHash, a type of hashing technology that Apple developed. However, after the program was announced, Apple executives reversed their decision and ultimately killed the implementation of the program . At the same time, in 2023, five major tech companies collectively reported more than 32 million pieces of child sexual abuse images and videos on their platforms– Apple reported only 267 . The lawsuit is seeking injunctive relief for Apple to implement basic child safety measures on behalf of the plaintiffs. The claim of negligence and failing to fulfill their duty of care resulting in harms to the plaintiffs stems from two main factors: Marsh Law Firm focuses its legal practice exclusively on representing survivors of sexual abuse and online exploitation. They are a survivor-focused, trauma-informed, and justice-oriented law firm that advocates for clients both in and out of the courtroom to secure justice and hold perpetrators and the institutions that enable abuse accountable. Heat Initiative is a collective effort of concerned child safety experts and advocates encouraging leading technology companies to combat child sexual abuse on their platforms. Heat Initiative sees a future where children's safety is at the forefront of any existing and future technological developments. The Heat Initiative's Ignite program catalyzes impact litigation to hold technology companies accountable to their duty to prevent and address the sexual exploitation of children on their platforms. Contact: press@heatinitiative.org View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/apple-sued-for-knowingly-hosting-child-sexual-abuse-material-on-its-products-failing-to-protect-survivors-302325571.html SOURCE Heat Initiative

Despite the initial shock and mixed reactions from the audience, the overall response was overwhelmingly positive. Fans praised Xiaohua for her bold and creative approach, while others commended Xiang Zuo for being a good sport and embracing the playful gesture. The couple's chemistry and lighthearted banter added to the entertainment value of the live stream, keeping viewers engaged and entertained throughout the entire broadcast.

In the end, the match ended in a draw, with both Messi and Mbappé showcasing their talents in equal measure. While the final score may not have tipped in Messi's favor that day, his display of emotional intelligence and sportsmanship won him admiration from fans and peers around the world.

Littler, who won the Grand Slam of Darts last week, hit checkouts of 170, 164 and 136 as he threatened to overturn an early deficit, but Humphries held his nerve to win the last three legs. “I’m really, really proud of that one to be honest,” Humphries told Sky Sports. FOR THE SECOND TIME 🏆🏆 Luke Humphries retains his 2024 Ladbrokes Players Championship Finals title, beating Luke Littler 11-7 in the final. pic.twitter.com/QUhxvSbGeu — PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) November 24, 2024 “I didn’t feel myself this week playing-wise, I felt like I was a dart behind in a lot of the scenarios but there’s something that Luke does to you. He really drives me, makes me want to be a better player and I enjoy playing him. “He let me in really early in that first session to go 4-1 up, I never looked back and I’m proud that I didn’t take my foot off the gas. These big games are what I live for. “Luke is a special talent and he was right – I said to him I’ve got to get these (titles) early before he wins them all. “I’d love to be up here and hitting 105 averages like Luke is all the time but he’s a different calibre, he’s probably the best player in the world right now but there’s something about me that never gives up. “This is a great way to go into the worlds.” HUMPHRIES GOES BACK-TO-BACK! 🏆 Luke Humphries retains his Players Championship Finals title! Cool Hand puts on an absolute clinic to defeat Luke Littler 11-7 in an epic final! 📺 https://t.co/AmuG0PMn18 #PCF2024 | Final pic.twitter.com/nZDWPUVjWE — PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) November 24, 2024 Littler, who lost the world championship final to Humphries last year, said: “It was tough, missed a few doubles and if you don’t take chances early on, it’s a lot to come back. “I hit the 170 and the 164 but just didn’t have enough in the end. “It’s been a good past two weeks. I just can’t wait to go home, chill out, obviously practice at home for the worlds. That’s it now, leading up to the big one.”

PNC Financial Services Group Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Vanguard Total International Stock ETF ( NASDAQ:VXUS – Free Report ) by 10.3% during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 121,821 shares of the company’s stock after purchasing an additional 11,393 shares during the quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc.’s holdings in Vanguard Total International Stock ETF were worth $7,887,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Nemes Rush Group LLC lifted its stake in Vanguard Total International Stock ETF by 449.4% during the second quarter. Nemes Rush Group LLC now owns 434 shares of the company’s stock worth $26,000 after purchasing an additional 355 shares during the last quarter. DiNuzzo Private Wealth Inc. acquired a new stake in Vanguard Total International Stock ETF in the third quarter valued at about $30,000. Highline Wealth Partners LLC bought a new position in Vanguard Total International Stock ETF in the third quarter valued at about $30,000. Carmichael Hill & Associates Inc. raised its stake in Vanguard Total International Stock ETF by 45.1% during the second quarter. Carmichael Hill & Associates Inc. now owns 544 shares of the company’s stock worth $33,000 after acquiring an additional 169 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Eastern Bank bought a new position in shares of Vanguard Total International Stock ETF in the third quarter worth about $35,000. Vanguard Total International Stock ETF Trading Up 0.3 % Shares of Vanguard Total International Stock ETF stock opened at $60.91 on Friday. The firm’s 50 day moving average is $62.87 and its 200 day moving average is $61.89. The firm has a market capitalization of $75.10 billion, a PE ratio of 12.88 and a beta of 0.85. Vanguard Total International Stock ETF has a 1 year low of $55.40 and a 1 year high of $65.52. Vanguard Total International Stock ETF Cuts Dividend Vanguard Total International Stock ETF Company Profile ( Free Report ) The Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the FTSE Global All Cap ex US index, a market-cap-weighted index of global stocks covering 99% of the world’s global market capitalization outside the US. VXUS was launched on Jan 26, 2011 and is managed by Vanguard. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Vanguard Total International Stock ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vanguard Total International Stock ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Creighton point guard Steven Ashworth likely won't play Tuesday in the No. 21 Bluejays' game against San Diego State in the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas. Ashworth sprained his right ankle late in a loss to Nebraska on Friday, and coach Greg McDermott said he didn't know how long he would be out. “He stepped on a guy's foot on a 3-point shot and you're defenseless in that situation," McDermott said after the game. "He torqued it pretty good.” An athletic department spokesman said Monday that Ashworth's status was doubtful for the game against the Aztecs. Ashworth is Creighton's second-leading scorer with 16 points per game and leads the team with 6.4 assists per game. He also is 23 of 23 on free throws. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP collegebasketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketballRich countries' promise of $300 billion a year in climate finance brought fury at talks in Baku from poor nations that found it too paltry, but it also shows a shift in global political realities. The two-week marathon COP29 climate conference opened days after the decisive victory in the US presidential election of Donald Trump, a sceptic both of climate change and foreign aid. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. Get the latest need-to-know information delivered to your inbox as it happens. Our flagship newsletter. Get our front page stories each morning as well as the latest updates each afternoon during the week + more in-depth weekend editions on Saturdays & Sundays.LOS ANGELES, Nov. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP (“GPM”) reminds investors of the upcoming January 13, 2025 deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in the class action filed on behalf of investors who purchased or otherwise acquired ASML Holding N.V. (“ASML” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: ASML ) ordinary shares between January 24, 2024, and October 15, 2024 , inclusive (the “Class Period”). If you suffered a loss on your ASML investments or would like to inquire about potentially pursuing claims to recover your loss under the federal securities laws, you can submit your contact information at www.glancylaw.com/cases/asml-holding-nv/ . You can also contact Charles H. Linehan, of GPM at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, or via email at shareholders@glancylaw.com to learn more about your rights. On October 15, 2024, ASML released its third quarter 2024 financial results, revealing quarterly bookings of €2.63 billion, a decline of 53% quarter-over-quarter. The Company also announced it expected full year 2025 total net sales to be between €30 billion and €35 billion, with a gross margin between 51% and 53%, explaining that “[w]hile there continue to be strong developments and upside potential in [artificial intelligence], other [semiconductor] market segments are taking longer to recover” and that “[i]t now appears the recovery is more gradual than previously expected.” On this news, ASML’s stock price fell $141.84, or 16.3%, to close at $730.43 per share on October 15, 2024, thereby injuring investors. Then, on October 16, 2024, ASML held its earnings call, during which, the Company further revealed that ASML’s sales in China had declined, which would also negatively impact the Company’s gross margins. On this news, ASML’s stock price fell $46.91, or 6.4%, to close at $683.52 per share on October 16, 2024, thereby injuring investors further. The complaint filed in this class action alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (1) the issues being faced by suppliers, like ASML, in the semiconductor industry were much more severe than Defendants had indicated to investors; (2) the pace of recovery of sales in the semiconductor industry was much slower than Defendants had publicly acknowledged; (3) Defendants had created the false impression that they possessed reliable information pertaining to customer demand and anticipated growth, while also downplaying risk from macroeconomic and industry fluctuations, as well as stronger regulations restricting the export of semiconductor technology, including the products that ASML sells; and (4) as a result, Defendants’ positive statements about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn , Twitter , or Facebook . If you purchased or otherwise acquired ASML ordinary shares during the Class Period, you may move the Court no later than January 13, 2025 to request appointment as lead plaintiff in this putative class action lawsuit. To be a member of the class action you need not take any action at this time; you may retain counsel of your choice or take no action and remain an absent member of the class action. If you wish to learn more about this class action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to the pending class action lawsuit, please contact Charles Linehan, Esquire, of GPM, 1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100, Los Angeles, California 90067 at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, by email to shareholders@glancylaw.com , or visit our website at www.glancylaw.com . If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number and number of shares purchased. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. Contacts Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP, Los Angeles Charles Linehan, 310-201-9150 or 888-773-9224 shareholders@glancylaw.com www.glancylaw.com

Another issue that has attracted criticism is Country Garden's approach to environmental sustainability. The company has been accused of disregarding environmental regulations and causing harm to ecosystems in the areas where it operates. In its response, Country Garden acknowledges the importance of environmental protection and states its commitment to upholding the highest standards of environmental stewardship. The company has announced plans to invest in eco-friendly technologies, reduce carbon emissions, and minimize the impact of its projects on the environment.