Israel Aerospace Industries will pay the state a $242 million dividend after a year of record profits and orders. Other defense firms are also boosting payments, prompting renewed discussion of privatizing the company.

Donald Trump and Melania Trump hosted a star-studded New Year's Eve party at Mar-a-Lago, attended by Benjamin Netanyahu and other prominent guests. The evening featured a charity auction and a fireworks display.

The United Nations chief condemned Israel's ban on utilities to the Palestinian refugee agency's facilities, warning it will hinder humanitarian work. The dispute comes amid ongoing allegations of the agency's ties to Hamas and international calls for continued aid to Gaza.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud claims Somaliland agreed to take in Gazans and allow an Israeli military base in exchange for Israeli recognition. He accuses Israel of trying to destabilize Somalia after it formally recognized Somaliland last week.

The military will reduce its reserve force by one-third next year, cutting 20,000 positions and increasing the burden on remaining personnel. Command staffs and other units will also see fewer reservists, with longer duty periods expected for those who remain.

Norway will extradite the Israeli 'Ashkelon hacker' to the United States, despite serious concerns about his mental health and past suicide attempts. His lawyers and psychiatrists warn that his condition has deteriorated since his imprisonment in Israel.

Heavy rain has led to flooding risks in central Israel, with seasonal rainfall totals now above average. A dry spell is expected to follow this wet weather.

Somaliland once hosted small Jewish communities of Yemenite traders, whose presence faded by the mid-20th century. The Yibir, a marginalized clan, claim ancient Jewish ancestry, but their origins remain unproven and largely legendary.

President Trump is pulling National Guard troops from Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland after court rulings against the deployments. Local leaders opposed the federal presence, calling it overreach. Trump warned that troops could return if crime increases.

Israel is preparing to reopen the Rafah crossing after recent pressure from the United States. An announcement is expected soon, following Prime Minister Netanyahu's visit to the US.

Zohran Mamdani is set to be sworn in as New York City's new mayor in a historic ceremony at the old City Hall subway station. His inauguration marks a milestone as the city's first Muslim and South Asian mayor, promising bold changes for affordability and transit. Supporters are hopeful as he begins his term amid both excitement and challenges.

The United Nations chief has condemned Israel's law blocking electricity and water to the agency supporting Palestinian refugees. The move is expected to further hinder humanitarian aid and essential services in Gaza.