Paphael News

In a significant milestone for the company, Pavel Durov, the founder and chief executive of the popular encrypted messaging platform Telegram, announced on Monday that the app has achieved net profitability for the first time in its history.  This achievement comes as the platform also surpassed $1 billion in annual revenue, marking a major shift in the financial trajectory of the once non-profitable app. Telegram, which has long been known for its emphasis on privacy and secure communication, has steadily grown in popularity since its launch in 2013. Initially, the app gained attention for its unique features, including end-to-end encryption, self-destructing messages, and the ability to create large groups and channels. These features, combined with its commitment to user privacy, have made Telegram a favorite among individuals, businesses, and organizations seeking a secure alternative to other messaging platforms. The platform's profitability in 2024 is a significan...

Nollywood actress and acclaimed filmmaker Funke Akindele has expressed her gratitude to fans and supporters following the remarkable success of her latest film, Everybody Loves Jenifa (ELJ). The movie, which builds upon her beloved Jenifa franchise, has achieved a significant milestone, cementing its place as a blockbuster hit. In a heartfelt statement shared with her audience, Akindele acknowledged the unwavering support from fans who have stood by her creative journey over the years. “I am deeply grateful to everyone who has watched, shared, and supported Everybody Loves Jenifa. This milestone would not have been possible without you,” she said. The actress and producer emphasized that the movie’s success reflects the love and dedication of her audience, as well as the collaborative efforts of her production team. Everybody Loves Jenifa is the latest installment in the widely celebrated Jenifa series, which chronicles the life and adventures of Jenifa, a quirky and relata...

Yarmuk, once a vibrant and bustling Palestinian refugee camp on the outskirts of Damascus, has become a stark reminder of the immense toll the Syrian civil war has taken on its civilian population.  Prior to the war, Yarmuk was home to over 150,000 people, serving as a hub of life and culture. However, during the early years of the conflict, the camp was completely destroyed, leaving behind only ruins and shattered lives. Established in 1957 as a sanctuary for Palestinian refugees, Yarmuk evolved into a thriving neighborhood, integrating Palestinians and Syrians in a community of shared experiences and aspirations. This harmony was violently disrupted when the camp became a battleground during the Syrian civil war. Intense fighting between government forces, opposition groups, and extremist factions turned Yarmuk into a war zone. By 2015, the United Nations declared it "a place where humanity has been erased," as starvation, sieges, and relentless bombardments dev...

The European Union has strongly criticized recent verdicts handed down by military courts in Pakistan, sentencing 25 supporters of the country's former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, to prison terms. In a statement issued Sunday, the EU emphasized that these rulings violate Pakistan’s international obligations to ensure fair and transparent trials for civilians. According to an announcement by the Pakistani military, the individuals were convicted for their involvement in attacks on military installations during nationwide protests in May 2023. The sentences range from two to ten years of "rigorous imprisonment" and were imposed under military court jurisdiction, a practice that has sparked widespread concern among human rights organizations and legal experts. The protests erupted following the arrest of Imran Khan, the leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and a key political figure in the country. The demonstrations saw thousands take to the street...

A tragic plane crash in the southern Brazilian city of Gramado claimed the lives of nine people on Sunday morning. The small aircraft, en route to an undisclosed destination, went down in a commercial area of the popular tourist city, leaving no survivors, authorities confirmed. Cleber dos Santos Lima, Director of the Interior Police Department for the state civil police, confirmed the fatalities to reporters. "There are nine deaths confirmed by the civil defense, and there are no survivors of the plane," he stated, emphasizing the gravity of the incident. The crash occurred during clear weather conditions, drawing immediate attention from local authorities and emergency responders. The aircraft reportedly slammed into a bustling part of the city, but no injuries on the ground have been reported as of yet. Witnesses described the harrowing scene, with some recounting the sound of the impact and subsequent plumes of smoke. "It was a terrifying mome...

The St. George Melkite Catholic Church, a significant religious and cultural landmark in the southern Lebanese town of Dardghaya, has been left in ruins following an Israeli airstrike. The church, which held historical and spiritual importance for the local Christian community, now stands as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict in the region. Witnesses described the destruction as devastating, with fragments of religious icons and other sacred artifacts scattered among the rubble. The airstrike, part of an escalating military confrontation between Israel and Hezbollah forces operating in southern Lebanon, has drawn widespread condemnation from local leaders and religious authorities. “This is not just an attack on a building but on the spiritual identity of a community,” said a local church official. “St. George Melkite Catholic Church has served as a place of worship, hope, and unity for generations. Its destruction is a profound loss.” The Melkite Greek Ca...

In a significant development after a four-and-a-half-year military standoff, India and China have taken steps toward de-escalating tensions along their disputed Himalayan border.  Both nations withdrew troops from two contentious flashpoints in 2024, signaling a tentative thaw in relations. However, experts caution that mutual mistrust continues to be a significant obstacle to fully restoring friendly ties between the Asian giants. According to VOA, India’s Foreign Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, addressed the nation’s parliament earlier this month, expressing cautious optimism about the progress. “The pullback has set New Delhi-Beijing ties in the direction of some improvement,” he noted. However, Jaishankar emphasized the importance of stability in the border regions, asserting, “We are clear that the maintenance of peace and tranquility in border areas is a pre-requisite for the development of our ties.” Despite these positive developments, the situation on the gr...

During his Sunday Angelus prayer, Pope Francis issued a heartfelt plea for a global ceasefire ahead of the Christmas season, condemning the "cruelty" of attacks on schools, hospitals, and civilians in war-torn regions such as Ukraine and Gaza. The pontiff urged leaders and citizens alike to prioritize peace and compassion during this holy time of year. "Let the weapons fall silent and let the Christmas carols ring out!" Francis declared from within the Vatican, where he delivered his weekly blessing indoors due to a cold and in consideration of his busy Christmas schedule. The pope's prayer extended to conflict zones worldwide, including Ukraine, the Holy Land, and the broader Middle East. "Let us pray that at Christmas there will be a ceasefire on all war fronts," he said, calling for peace as a universal gift. Francis specifically highlighted the suffering in Ukraine, a nation he frequently references in his appeals. He lamented the ongoi...

In a landmark decision, President Joe Biden announced on Monday the commutation of sentences for 37 individuals on federal death row, converting their punishments to life imprisonment without parole.  This sweeping action comes just weeks before President-elect Donald Trump, a staunch advocate for expanding the use of capital punishment, assumes office. The commutations, which affect inmates convicted of a range of heinous crimes, mark a significant shift in federal policy regarding the death penalty. Those spared include individuals convicted of murders involving law enforcement officers, military personnel, victims on federal property, and crimes linked to deadly bank robberies, drug trafficking, or violence within federal facilities. “This decision reflects a commitment to ensuring justice while addressing the moral and systemic concerns surrounding the federal death penalty,” the White House said in a statement. Despite the broad scope of the commutations, three hig...

The Chinese government issued a stern rebuke on Sunday in response to recent announcements from the United States regarding significant military aid and sales to Taiwan.  This development has further strained relations between the two global powers, with Beijing accusing Washington of provocative actions and warning that such moves could escalate tensions in the region. The latest measures from the United States include an authorization by President Joe Biden for up to $571 million in Defense Department material and services. This package encompasses military education and training for Taiwan, a democratically governed island that Beijing considers a breakaway province of China. President Biden's approval on Saturday marks a continued U.S. commitment to supporting Taiwan's self-defense capabilities amidst mounting pressure from China. In a parallel move, the U.S. Department of Defense announced on Friday the approval of an additional $295 million in military sales t...

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) announced on Monday that North Korea appears to be preparing to send additional troops and weapons to bolster Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine. This revelation highlights Pyongyang's growing involvement in the conflict, raising concerns over its deepening military cooperation with Moscow. In a statement, the JCS disclosed that North Korea has already delivered advanced weaponry, including 240mm rocket launchers and 170mm self-propelled artillery units, to Russia. Further shipments are said to include suicide drones, which have become a critical component of modern warfare for precision strikes. North Korea's military contributions are not limited to equipment. According to intelligence assessments from South Korea, the United States, and Ukraine, Pyongyang has already dispatched approximately 12,000 troops to assist Russian forces. These troops are reportedly engaged in various capacities on the front lines. However, the...

The Firefly Forest in Nanacamilpa, Tlaxcala, is an amazing sanctuary that transforms into a natural wonderland each rainy season.  Thousands of fireflies illuminate the night sky, creating a breathtaking bioluminescent display. This unique phenomenon is not only a treasure of Mexico but can also be found in select regions across Africa, Asia, and other parts of the world. Spanning 40 hectares, this protected forest provides an ideal habitat for fireflies to thrive. The fireflies’ enchanting glow is the result of a biochemical process in specialized light-producing organs in their abdomen. These glowing patterns are used to attract mates, turning the forest into a living light show. According to National geografic, visitors from all over the globe flock to Nanacamilpa to experience this magical event. Guided trails allow guests to immerse themselves in the flickering beauty of the forest, offering a serene and unforgettable adventure. However, enjoying this n...

On Sunday, December 22, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump made a bold commitment during a speech at the AmericaFest conference in Phoenix, Arizona. Addressing a gathering of young conservatives, Trump pledged to implement sweeping measures to address what he referred to as "transgender lunacy," signaling his administration's intention to prioritize anti-LGBTQ policies. The president-elect vowed to enact executive orders that would define gender strictly as male or female, reversing policies that recognize transgender individuals. “There will only be male and female in America,” Trump declared, emphasizing his intent to end what he described as "child sexual mutilation" through bans on gender-affirming care for minors. He also pledged to remove transgender individuals from the U.S. military and prohibit their participation in elementary, middle, and high school education systems. Further, Trump doubled down on his stance regarding sports, promising to...

In a heart-wrenching announcement, Virunga National Park, one of the world's leading conservation sanctuaries, has confirmed the death of Ndakasi, an orphaned mountain gorilla whose life became a symbol of hope and resilience. Ndakasi passed away after a prolonged illness, cradled in the arms of her devoted caretaker of 13 years, Andre Bauma. The tragic news was shared via a heartfelt post on National Geographic's official Facebook page, capturing the deep bond between Ndakasi and the dedicated team who worked tirelessly to ensure her survival and well-being. Born in 2007, Ndakasi's life was marked by both hardship and remarkable triumph. She was found as an infant, clinging to life beside the body of her deceased mother, a victim of poaching in Virunga National Park, located in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Ndakasi’s rescue and subsequent rehabilitation highlighted the challenges faced by mountain gorillas, an endangered species whose population has been de...

Two U.S. Navy pilots were shot down on Sunday over the Red Sea in what the U.S. military has described as a "friendly fire" incident.  The event marks one of the most serious threats to American forces in more than a year of operations targeting Yemen's Houthi rebels, who are backed by Iran. According to the U.S. military's Central Command, both pilots managed to eject safely from their aircraft and were subsequently rescued. One of the pilots sustained minor injuries during the incident. Despite their safe recovery, the shootdown underscores the escalating risks in the Red Sea, an increasingly volatile maritime corridor plagued by attacks on international shipping by the Houthi forces. The incident occurred amid ongoing U.S. airstrikes targeting Houthi positions in Yemen. However, Central Command has refrained from providing detailed information about the pilots' specific mission at the time of the incident. Questions from news outlets, including The ...

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in the heart of Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on Sunday, demanding accountability from government leaders over the fatal collapse of a train station roof in Novi Sad last month that left 15 people dead. The protest, which has marked a continuation of widespread public outrage, was organized by university students and began with a solemn 15-minute silence to honor the victims of the tragedy. Demonstrators held banners and signs calling for justice, with chants denouncing corruption and government negligence resonating through the streets. According to VOA, For more than seven weeks, the Serbian government has faced mounting criticism and pressure stemming from nationwide demonstrations. Citizens and activists have accused authorities of failing to enforce adequate oversight and safety standards, alleging that systemic corruption and mismanagement contributed to the disaster. The collapse, which occurred in the bustling northern c...

The Path of Moses is a captivating natural phenomenon that occurs during low tide along the shores of Barra Grande Beach in Maragogi, Alagoas, Brazil.  This remarkable sandbank emerges from the ocean, extending hundreds of meters into the sea, creating the illusion of walking on water. This unique feature, reminiscent of a biblical story, has become one of the region's most iconic attractions. As visitors traverse this temporary pathway, they are treated to an unparalleled experience of marine biodiversity. The crystal-clear waters reveal a mesmerizing underwater world teeming with vibrant marine life. Schools of multicolored fish dart among coral formations, creating an ever-changing, breathtaking display. The serenity of the environment, combined with the beauty of its aquatic inhabitants, leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. The surrounding landscape enhances the allure of the Path of Moses. The vast expanse of blue horizon seamlessly merges with...

The Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park in Guangdong Province introduced its rare Bengal tiger quintuplets to the public on Friday, December 20, marking a significant milestone in wildlife conservation and public education. Born in September 2024, the five cubs are thriving under the care of their six-year-old mother, Weiwei. The family resides in a specially designed tiger den enclosure that closely replicates the natural birthing environment of wild tigers. This thoughtful design enables Weiwei to nurture her offspring in conditions that align with their natural instincts, providing a supportive and enriching habitat for the cubs’ early development. The birth of quintuplets is a remarkable event for Bengal tigers, as the species typically gives birth to litters of two or three cubs. This rare occurrence not only highlights the health and vitality of Weiwei but also underscores the park’s successful efforts in providing optimal care and breeding conditions for endangered speci...

Pope Francis has reiterated his condemnation of Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, describing the recent attacks as acts of cruelty.  This statement follows remarks he made suggesting that the international community should assess whether the military campaign in Gaza could be classified as genocide against the Palestinian people. His comments sparked criticism from an Israeli government minister. During his annual Christmas address to Vatican cardinals on Saturday, the pontiff made a pointed reference to the airstrikes, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 25 Palestinians, including children. "Yesterday, children were bombed," Pope Francis said solemnly. "This is cruelty. This is not war. I wanted to say this because it touches the heart." This marks another occasion where the Pope has openly criticized Israel's ongoing military actions in Gaza, which have intensified following the conflict with the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The grou...

In the remote and culturally rich landscapes of Ethiopia, the Bana tribe has long upheld traditions that intertwine daily life with remarkable feats of skill and endurance. Among these practices, one of the most striking is the custom involving young boys working on sticks—a fascinating aspect of their cultural identity. This practice, deeply rooted in Bana tradition, is not merely a pastime but a demonstration of agility, balance, and discipline. The young boys skillfully walk or leap across elevated sticks or poles, showcasing their physical prowess. These activities are often carried out in groups, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among the children while also preparing them for the challenges of adulthood. The origins of this practice are tied to the tribe's pastoral lifestyle, where physical strength and dexterity are essential for tasks such as herding livestock and navigating rugged terrain. For the Bana people, these early exercises serve as a meta...

In a daring overnight raid, the Pakistani Taliban carried out a brutal assault on a military outpost near the Afghanistan border, resulting in the deaths of 16 soldiers and leaving five others critically injured, according to senior intelligence officials.  The attack occurred in the early hours of Saturday and has been described as one of the most significant assaults in recent months in the region. The siege began shortly after midnight and lasted approximately two hours. Around 30 heavily armed militants launched a coordinated attack on the remote, mountainous outpost, targeting it from three different directions. According to a senior intelligence officer, who spoke to AFP under the condition of anonymity, the militants overwhelmed the post using a barrage of firepower and tactical precision. "Sixteen soldiers were martyred, and five others sustained critical injuries in the assault," the official stated. "The attackers also destroyed wireless communicati...

In a devastating accident early Saturday morning, a collision between a passenger bus and a truck claimed the lives of 37 people on a highway in Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. The incident occurred near the city of Teófilo Otoni and has been described as one of the deadliest road accidents in the region's recent history. According to the Minas Gerais Fire Department, which led the rescue efforts, 13 survivors were rushed to nearby hospitals with varying degrees of injuries. The bus, reportedly en route from São Paulo, was carrying 45 passengers at the time of the crash. Emergency responders worked tirelessly to recover victims and clear the wreckage. By Saturday afternoon, all casualties had been removed from the scene, allowing authorities to begin a detailed investigation into the cause of the tragedy. Preliminary reports suggest that the accident may have been triggered by a blown tire on the bus, leading the driver to lose control and collide with an oncoming tr...

Ezekiel Otuoma, a celebrated Kenyan footballer known for his remarkable talent and dedication to the sport, passed away on December 20, 2024, after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The condition, a neurodegenerative disease that progressively affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, has no known cure. Otuoma’s life was not only defined by his achievements on the field but also by an inspiring love story with his wife, Racheal. Through moments of triumph and adversity, Racheal remained a steadfast source of strength and unwavering support for her husband. She accompanied him to public events, proudly demonstrating her love and compassion, even as his condition worsened. The couple’s journey together became a testament to enduring love and commitment, qualities that are increasingly rare in today’s world. Racheal’s empathy and dedication to her husband earned admiration from many, further cementing Otuoma’s legacy as not just an exception...

Dozens of displaced Palestinians gathered on Friday at a charitable kitchen in southern Gaza’s Khan Younis city, forming long queues in a desperate bid to secure a meal for the day. This scene has become a grim reality for many in the region as they face increasingly dire living conditions. As winter sets in, plunging temperatures and torrential rains have exacerbated the already fragile situation in Gaza. Seasonal flooding threatens the makeshift settlements housing displaced Palestinians, raising alarm among humanitarian organizations. Aid agencies have expressed deep concern over the potential for loss of life, severe illnesses, and long-term disabilities among those enduring these harsh conditions. “It is very cold. It has been raining overnight,” said Louise Wateridge, senior emergency officer for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA), speaking to journalists in Geneva on Friday. “We are anticipating very heavy rain here today, and this is wh...

At least 13 people, including four children, lost their lives in two separate stampedes in Nigeria as large crowds gathered to receive food and clothing distributed during annual Christmas charity events, police confirmed on Saturday. The incidents underscore the rising trend of charity initiatives organized by local organizations, religious institutions, and private individuals in the lead-up to Christmas. This year, the events come at a time when Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, is grappling with its worst cost-of-living crisis in decades. The first tragedy occurred at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, an affluent district in the capital city of Abuja. Police spokesperson Josephine Adeh revealed in a statement that ten people were killed in the early hours of the morning. The chaos erupted as hundreds of people, some of whom had been waiting since the previous night, surged towards the church gates to secure a spot ahead of the distribution of charitabl...

In an electrifying main event on the December 21, 2024, episode of WWE SmackDown, the reigning Women’s Tag Team Champions, Bianca Belair and Naomi, successfully defended their titles against the formidable duo of Nia Jax and Candice LeRae.  The high-stakes match captivated fans as both teams delivered an intense and skillful performance, solidifying the champions’ dominance in the tag team division. The challengers, Jax and LeRae, entered the match with confidence and a clear strategy. Nia Jax's raw power and LeRae's technical precision posed a significant threat to Belair and Naomi. Early in the match, Jax used her strength to isolate Naomi, delivering devastating blows and controlling the pace. LeRae followed up with a series of targeted attacks aimed at wearing down the champions. However, the reigning champions showcased their resilience and chemistry. Bianca Belair, known for her athleticism and strength, turned the tide with a spectacular counter to Jax’s atte...

A photograph capturing a tourist’s amusing reaction during an African safari has gone viral, sparking laughter and numerous comments on social media.  The unnamed tourist, who was part of a group touring a wildlife reserve, was photographed through the window of a safari bus at the precise moment a pair of lions began mating in the wild. The image, shared on Facebook without much context, quickly gained attention due to the tourist's exaggerated facial expression, which seemed to perfectly encapsulate a mix of surprise, awkwardness, and disbelief. While the details about the safari and its exact location remain unclear, the photograph’s focus shifted from the majestic lions to the priceless reaction of the observer. Social media users flooded the post with humorous captions and comments, many joking about how the tourist might have felt witnessing such an intimate moment between the king and queen of the jungle. One user commented, “She looks like she just walked in on ...

In a development that has captured the attention of fans and media alike, Selena Gomez and music producer Benny Blanco have announced their engagement.  While congratulations pour in from across the globe, one reaction has stood out—Justin Bieber’s. The pop star’s response has sparked widespread discussion, raising questions about his past relationship with Gomez and his feelings about this new chapter in her life. Sources close to Bieber have revealed that the singer was taken aback upon hearing the news of Gomez's engagement. Though Justin has moved on with his wife, Hailey Bieber, his history with Gomez remains a subject of public fascination. Their on-and-off relationship spanned nearly a decade and was often the focus of media scrutiny. Bieber’s initial reaction, described by insiders as "shocked," has ignited speculation among fans. While some see his response as a natural reaction given their shared history, others believe it reflects lingering emotions...

Syria's newly-formed transitional government, which assumed power on December 8, has issued a nationwide call urging soldiers and police officers to lay down their arms and register with the authorities. The appeal marks a significant step in the government's efforts to foster reconciliation and chart a new course for the war-torn nation. The administration, established to navigate Syria through a challenging political transition, is seeking to unite factions and de-escalate tensions that have gripped the country for years. In a statement, government representatives emphasized the importance of disarmament and reintegration, framing it as a cornerstone of national stability and peacebuilding. The coastal city of Latakia, historically regarded as a bastion of support for the previous Assad regime, has become a focal point in this transformative process. Once a stronghold for loyalist forces, the city is now witnessing an unprecedented shift in sentiment among its res...

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria’s foremost anti-corruption agency, has launched an extensive investigation into nearly 800 individuals apprehended during a sweeping operation targeting internet fraud in Lagos last week.  The EFCC described the raid as its largest single operation to date, underscoring the scale of cybercrime activities in the country. Wilson Uwujaren, the EFCC’s spokesperson, revealed on Tuesday that the historic raid was the result of meticulous planning, months of intelligence gathering, and sustained surveillance efforts by the agency. “This operation highlights our commitment to combating the menace of internet fraud, which has tarnished Nigeria's image globally,” Uwujaren stated. The EFCC has been at the forefront of addressing financial crimes, particularly the surge in internet-related fraud schemes often referred to as "Yahoo-Yahoo" scams. These schemes typically involve elaborate plans to deceive individua...

France has announced the implementation of a nighttime curfew on Mayotte, a French overseas territory in the Indian Ocean, following the catastrophic impact of Cyclone Chido. The curfew will take effect on Tuesday evening as part of emergency measures to restore order and facilitate relief efforts on the island. Cyclone Chido struck Mayotte and its surrounding archipelago over the weekend, leaving widespread devastation in its wake. The latest official figures confirm that at least 22 lives were lost due to the cyclone. However, authorities fear the death toll could rise significantly as rescue teams work to clear debris, unblock roads, and access isolated areas. Concerns are mounting that hundreds, if not thousands, may have perished in the disaster. The cyclone has left essential services in disarray. Health facilities have been severely compromised, power outages persist, and mobile communication networks remain disrupted. The island’s airport has been closed to civilian...