Skip to main content

Featured

Winter's Dawn: Celebrating the Solstice

The Winter Solstice, which occurred on December 21st, marks the shortest day and longest night of the year, signaling the official start of winter. Mary Walrath-Holdridge and Julia Gomez from USA TODAY explore the significance of this astronomical event and how it is celebrated across different cultures. The solstice, occurring when the North Pole is tilted furthest away from the sun, brings the least amount of daylight and the longest night. This year, the solstice fell on December 21st at 4:21 a.m. EST, marking the astronomical beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Historically, the Winter Solstice has been a time of celebration and reflection. Ancient civilizations, such as the Romans with their Saturnalia festival and the Norsemen with their bonfires, honored the return of the sun and the promise of longer days ahead. Today, people continue to observe the solstice with various traditions, including gatherings, feasts, and rituals that pay homage to the natural cycles of l...

Israel Pounds Central Gaza Camps, Deepens Invasion of Rafah

 

Israeli forces intensified their military operations in the central Gaza Strip, resulting in casualties and displacement. According to medics, three people were killed, and dozens were wounded during overnight airstrikes. Tanks also deepened their invasion into Rafah in the south, prompting residents to flee.

In Al-Nuseirat camp, Israeli planes struck a house, killing two people and wounding 12 others. Tanks shelled areas in Al-Maghazi and Al-Bureij camps, causing further injuries. These camps hold historical significance as part of Gaza’s refugee communities.

Deir al-Balah, another city in central Gaza, witnessed an Israeli airstrike that killed one Palestinian and injured several others. The Israeli military claims these operations are “precise, intelligence-based” activities targeting militants and military infrastructure.

Rafah, near the border with Egypt, has borne the brunt of the conflict. Israeli tanks have taken control of most areas, forcing families to flee northward. The city, which once housed over half of Gaza’s population, now has fewer than 100,000 residents. Despite international efforts, a cease-fire remains elusive.

The ongoing conflict continues to devastate lives, leaving civilians caught in the crossfire. As the situation unfolds, the world watches, hoping for a peaceful resolution to this protracted crisis.


Comments