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Lebanese PM Urges Caution Amid Rising Regional Tensions

                                                       Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has issued a firm warning against pulling the country into what he described as “adventures” that could endanger national security and unity. His remarks come at a moment of heightened regional volatility following coordinated strikes by Israel and the United States on Iran.  Salam emphasized the gravity of the situation, urging all Lebanese factions to act with “wisdom and patriotism” and to prioritize the interests of the nation above external pressures or political agendas. Though he did not name Hezbollah directly, his message was widely interpreted as a caution to the Iran‑backed group, which has historically been involved in conflicts with Israel and has signaled it may not remain neutra...
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U.S. Treasury Secretary Warns of Approaching Debt Ceiling Crisis


Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has issued a stark warning that the United States could hit its debt ceiling as early as mid-January. In a letter to congressional leaders, Yellen stated that her agency would need to begin taking "extraordinary measures" to prevent the nation from breaching the debt limit. These measures are special accounting maneuvers intended to keep the government operating without defaulting on its obligations.

Yellen emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging Congress to act swiftly to protect the full faith and credit of the United States. The debt ceiling, which had been suspended until January 1, 2025, is expected to be reinstated on January 2, 2025. However, due to a scheduled redemption of nonmarketable securities held by a federal trust fund associated with Medicare payments, the Treasury does not expect to need to take extraordinary measures until January 14 to January 23.

The federal debt currently stands at approximately $36 trillion, a figure that has grown significantly over the years under both Republican and Democratic administrations. The spike in inflation following the COVID-19 pandemic has further increased government borrowing costs, making the situation even more critical.

Yellen's warning comes after President Joe Biden signed a bill last week that averted a government shutdown but did not address the debt ceiling issue. The bill was passed only after intense debate among Republicans over how to handle President-elect Donald Trump's demand to raise or suspend the debt limit.

As the new year approaches, the nation's fiscal health hangs in the balance, with lawmakers facing a critical decision on how to address the impending debt ceiling crisis.




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