Dec. 28 (UPI) — More than 30 years after New York City switched from tokens to the magnetic swipe of a MetroCard to ride its subways and buses, the card’s era is about to end.
Starting on Jan. 1, 2026, transiting residents and tourists alike will be required to move into the 21st century by using a contactless form of paying fares by tapping a phone, credit card or other device as they enter stations and buses.
Although the contactless system was introduced in 2019, 94% of subway and bus trips in the city already use the OMNY system for their travel payments, ABC News reported.
“New Yorkers have embraced tap and ride and we’re proud to see that as more and more people return to the city, they are choosing mass transit,” Shanifah Rieara, chief customer officer for New York City’s Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA), said in a press release.
“As the end of MetroCard sales nears, we are focusing on reaching the remaining 6% to make the switch and unlock the benefits and convenience of tap and ride technology,” Rieara said.
According to the MTA, the last day to purchase or reload a MetroCard will be Dec. 31, while the last day to use one of the magnetic swipe cards will be some time in mid-2026.
The OMNY system offers three ways for riders to pay: with their phone using a digital wallet or contactless bank card, as well as a physical OMNY card that works with the digital system.
MTA said that by eliminating MetroCards and move to a single method of fare collection, the agency expects to save at least $20 million, as well as gain the ability to offer customer promotions and fare discounts more easily.
From 1953 until 1994, the New York City subway system’s main method for paying were dime-sized tokens with a hole in the middle shaped like a “Y,” which the MTA at the time said made it easier to increase fares without having to accept a variety of coinage, CNN reported.
In 1983, as other large cities had started using magnetic swipe technology for their public transportation systems’ payments, the MTA started moving toward the reloadable cards that have been an essential part of life for New Yorkers for more than three decades.
Pope Leo XIV celebrates the Christmas vigil Mass on Christmas eve on Wednesday in St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, Vatican. Photo by Stefano Spaziani/UPI | License Photo
I am a Palestinian. And increasingly, that fact alone is treated as a provocation.
In recent months, I have watched anti-Semitism — a real, lethal form of hatred with a long and horrific history — be stripped of its meaning and weaponised to silence Palestinians, criminalise solidarity with us, and shield Israel from accountability as it carries out a genocide in Gaza. This is not about protecting Jewish people. It is about protecting power.
The pattern is now impossible to ignore.
A children’s educator, Ms Rachel, whose entire public work is built around care, learning, and empathy, is branded “Anti-Semite of the Year” — not for her engaging in any form of hate speech, but for expressing concern for Palestinian children. For acknowledging that children in Gaza are being bombed, starved, and traumatised. For expressing compassion.
As a Palestinian, I hear the message clearly: even empathy for our children is dangerous.
Then there is Palestine Action, a protest movement that targets weapons manufacturers supplying Israel’s military. Instead of being debated, challenged, or even criticised within a democratic framework, it is proscribed as a “terrorist” organisation, casually equated with ISIL (ISIS) – a group responsible for mass executions, sexual slavery, and genocidal violence.
This comparison is not just obscene. It is deliberate. It collapses the meaning of “terrorism” so completely that political dissent becomes extremism by definition. Resistance becomes pathology. Protest becomes “terror”. And Palestinians, once again, are framed not as a people under occupation, but as a permanent threat.
Language itself is now being criminalised. Phrases like “globalise the Intifada” are banned without any serious engagement with history or meaning. Intifada — a word that literally means “shaking off” — is torn from its political context as an uprising against military occupation and reduced to a slur. Palestinians are denied even the right to name their resistance.
At the same time, international law is being actively dismantled.
Staff and judges at the International Criminal Court are sanctioned and intimidated for daring to investigate Israeli war crimes. Francesca Albanese, the United Nations special rapporteur on Palestine, has not only been sanctioned, but also relentlessly smeared — because she uses the language of international law to describe occupation, apartheid, and genocide.
When international law is applied to African leaders, it is celebrated. When it is applied to Israel, it is treated as an act of hostility.
This brings us to Australia — and to one of the most revealing moments of all.
After the horrific Bondi Beach attack, which shocked and horrified people across Australia, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the Australian government of encouraging anti-Semitism. Not because of any incitement, not because of inflammatory rhetoric — but because Australia had moved towards recognising Palestine as a state.
Read that again.
The diplomatic recognition of Palestinian statehood — long framed as essential to peace and grounded in international law — is presented as a moral failing, even as a contributor to anti-Semitic violence. Palestinian existence itself is treated as the problem.
What makes this moment so disturbing is not only that Netanyahu made this claim, but that so many centres of power ran with it rather than challenged it.
Instead of forcefully rejecting the idea that recognising Palestinian rights could “encourage anti-Semitism”, governments, institutions, and commentators allowed the premise to stand. Some echoed it outright. Others stayed silent. Almost none confronted the dangerous logic at its core: that Palestinian political recognition is inherently destabilising, provocative, or threatening.
This is how moral collapse happens — not with thunder, but with acquiescence.
The result is not safety for the Jewish people, but erasure of the Palestinian people.
As a Palestinian, I find it devastating.
It means my identity is not merely contested — it is criminalised. My grief is not simply ignored — it is politicised. My demand for justice is not debated — it is pathologised as hatred.
Anti-Semitism is real. It must be confronted seriously and without hesitation. The Jewish people deserve safety, dignity, and protection — everywhere. But when anti-Semitism is stretched to include children’s educators, UN experts, international judges, protest movements, chants, words, and even the diplomatic recognition of Palestine, then the term no longer serves to protect Jewish people.
It protects a state from accountability.
Worse still, this weaponisation endangers Jews by collapsing Jewish identity into the actions of a government committing mass atrocities. It tells the world that Israel speaks for all Jews — and that anyone who objects must therefore be hostile to Jews themselves. That is not protection. It is recklessness masquerading as morality.
For Palestinians like me, the psychological toll is immense.
I am tired of having to preface every sentence with disclaimers.
I am deeply pained by watching my people starve while being lectured about tone.
I am angry that international law seems to apply only in certain politically convenient cases.
And I am grieving — not just for Gaza, but for the moral collapse unfolding around it.
Opposing genocide is not anti-Semitism.
Solidarity is not “terrorism”.
Recognising Palestine is not incitement.
Naming your suffering is not violence.
If the world insists on calling me an anti-Semite for refusing to accept the annihilation of my people, then it is not anti-Semitism that is being countered.
It is genocide that is being justified.
And history will remember who helped make that possible.
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeera’s editorial stance.
DRAGONS’ Den star Sara Davies has broken her silence on being invited to Adam Peaty and Holly Ramsay’s star-studded wedding.
The entrepreneur, 41, met Olympic swimmer Adam during their time competing on Strictly Come Dancing and has admitted they have stayed close ever since.
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Sara Davies has broken her silence on attending the ’emotional’ wedding of Adam Peaty and Holly RamsayCredit: InstagramThe TV star wowed at the Bath Abbey ceremony despite the ongoing Peaty family feudCredit: GettyAdam and Holly tied the knot amid a blitz of controversyCredit: Splash
She’s now taken to Instagram to speak about the “emotional” big day as she hinted Adam teared up at seeing his new wife walk down the aisle at the plush Bath Abbey ceremony.
Alongside a collection of snaps of her and Adam from over the years, TV favourite Sara said: “Yesterday I had the privilege of being at this amazing man’s wedding – and it also gave me a moment to reflect on how lucky I’ve been to have him in my life over the past four years.
“From the first day we met on Strictly, we’ve been firm friends, and it was a real honour to sit in Bath Abbey and watch him get emotional as the love of his life walked down the aisle.”
“Simon and I had the best time, the service was beautiful – and I’m sure you’ll not be surprised to hear me say, it was hands down the best wedding food I’ve ever had.
“Wishing my wonderful friend and his gorgeous bride a lifetime of happiness together.”
Sara looked sensational as she strutted her way into the ceremony yesterday.
The business mogul wowed in a black and blue gown that featured lacy floral detailing.
One of the best dressed attendees at the event, Sara flashed a smile and waved to the crowds as she made her way inside the venue.
But Mark declined, finding the offer insulting, and remained at home 150 miles away as Adam tied the knot.
The family was split last month after Caroline was not included atHolly’s hen do at the swanky Soho Farmhouse, Oxfordshire, and was subsequently uninvited from the wedding.
Holly’s mum Tana and close pal Victoria Beckham were both in attendance at the girly get together near to the Beckhams’ country home.
Caroline made her feelings clear earlier this month when she shared a cryptic post on Instagram that read: “This year, I met the most broken version of myself but also the strongest. 2026, get ready, because I’m coming back stronger than ever.”
The feud escalated when bride Holly called cops after Adam’s brother James allegedly made threats via text while Adam was on his stag do.
Adam was also branded “spiteful” this Christmas for failing to buy gifts for his parents or brothers.
Sara has been pals with Adam since they met on StrictlyCredit: InstagramShe hinted that the Olympian cried when Holly walked down the aisleCredit: Splash
Four-time Grand Slam champion Sabalenka showed flashes of the emotion she demonstrates in competitive matches, bearing a mischievous grin when she won points.
“I felt great. I think I put up a great fight. He was struggling, he got really tired,” Sabalenka said afterwards.
“I think it was a great level, I made a lot of great shots, moved a lot to the net, drop shots. I really enjoyed the show. Next time when I play him, I already know the tactics, his strengths and weaknesses, and it will be a better match for sure.
“I love to challenge myself and I’d love to play again.”
Critics had questioned Kyrgios’ suitability as the male protagonist in the match, given he admitted assaulting an ex-girlfriend in 2021 and has made a series of comments which have been considered misogynistic.
The Australian, who was ranked 13th in the world at his peak, played with an air of insouciance throughout. His movement was limited as he worked to shorten points where possible.
He will be delighted to have secured victory in little over an hour as he looks to build fitness for what he hopes will be a fuller return to the ATP Tour in 2026.
The pair, whose friendship appears genuine and was demonstrated by their japes throughout the match, shared an affable embrace at the net.
“Honestly, it was a really tough match, she is a hell of a player and such a great champion,” said Kyrgios.
“I didn’t really know what to expect. Whatever role I was to play, it was just another great opportunity to go out here.”
Kyrgios, who is currently 671st in men’s rankings, beat the four-time Grand Slam singles champion in straight sets.
Published On 28 Dec 202528 Dec 2025
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Nick Kyrgios beat women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka in the “Battle of the Sexes”, in a highly-publicised showdown with modified rules that divided tennis fans.
Former Wimbledon finalist Kyrgios won 6-3, 6-3 in an exhibition match in Dubai on Sunday that bore little resemblance to the era-defining 1973 encounter between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs.
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Back then, there was more at stake with the nascent women’s professional tour, set up by King, fighting for its legitimacy and prize money for female players still far lower than for the men.
King, one of the all-time greats of the women’s game who was at the peak of her powers, saw off the 55-year-old Riggs, a top player in his day, 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 in Houston.
On Sunday, each player received only one serve and the dimensions of Sabalenka’s side of the court were nine percent smaller, in an attempt to restrict Kyrgios’ power and speed advantage.
Kyrgios has dropped to 671 in the rankings after playing just six ATP matches over the past three seasons, but the 30-year-old Australian still had enough to see off four-time Grand Slam singles champion Sabalenka.
The maverick Australian was drenched in sweat and appeared out of breath in the second set after going 1-3 down, while his opponent danced to the music during a strategic timeout, but he persevered to make it 3-3 after Belarusian Sabalenka sent a shot long.
Kyrgios, who shortened the points with cheeky drop shots and used variations on his serve to good effect, pulled away to seal the win on serve before sharing a warm hug with Sabalenka at the net.
“Honestly, it was a really tough match. She’s a hell of a competitor,” said Kyrgios.
“I had to strap in because she was putting the pressure on and ultimately it was a really hard-fought battle.”
Sabalenka said she would “love” a rematch.
“I felt great. I put on a great fight. He was struggling. He was getting tired. I was happy to see that,” she said.
“It was a great level [of tennis]. I made a lot of great shots. I really enjoyed the show. I feel like next time when I play him I know all his tactics and strengths.”
A Palestinian woman in Gaza has died as a winter storm threatens the lives of nearly 900,000 Palestinians living in tents across the devastated coastal enclave.
The 30-year-old, identified as Alaa Marwan Juha, died on Sunday when a wall collapsed onto her tent in the Remal neighbourhood to the west of Gaza City, Al Jazeera Arabic reported.
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The incident occurred amid heavy rain and strong winds that have battered the Gaza Strip since Saturday evening, flooding and blowing away thousands of tents sheltering the forcibly displaced Palestinians.
Al Jazeera Arabic, citing witnesses, reported that the partially destroyed wall gave way under the force of the wind, crashing down on the tent beside it. The wall collapse also injured several members of Juha’s family, the network reported.
Many Palestinian families have been living in tents since late 2023 as Israel waged its genocidal war on Gaza. The enclave is imminently facing freezing temperatures, rain and strong winds, as the authorities warn the downpour could intensify into a full-blown storm.
‘Disaster area’
Amjad Shawa, director of the Palestinian NGOs Network (PNGO), told Al Jazeera Arabic that the severe weather conditions are exacerbating an already catastrophic humanitarian situation.
“This low-pressure system will complicate matters further … and poses a danger to the lives of citizens,” Shawa said.
He said the tents offer no real protection against flooding and called for an urgent entry of mobile homes, or caravans, and equipment to repair destroyed sewage networks.
“Tents represent neither a choice nor a solution,” he said, noting that agreed humanitarian protocols stipulate the provision of adequate shelter.
A displaced Palestinian woman adjusts the canvas of the family tent shelter as the region experiences rain and cold winter conditions, in Gaza City, on December 28, 2025 [AFP]
Shawa urged the international community to pressure Israel to lift restrictions on life-saving aid, describing the entire Gaza Strip as a “disaster area”.
At least 15 people, including three babies, have died this month from hypothermia following the rains and plunging temperatures, according to the authorities in Gaza.
Emergency workers have warned people not to stay in damaged buildings, several of which have completely collapsed. But with much of the Palestinian territory reduced to rubble, there are few places to escape the rain.
Meanwhile, the healthcare system in Gaza is on the brink of total collapse, and the absence of much-needed aid, including medicine and medical supplies, is exacerbating the situation.
Ceasefire violations
Separately on Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu left Tel Aviv for the United States, as negotiators and others discuss the second stage of the ceasefire, the first phase of which took effect on October 10.
Israel continues to violate the ceasefire agreement and block desperately needed humanitarian aid to the war-ravaged coastal enclave, even though these are stipulated in the first phase of the agreement.
A 20-point plan proposed by US President Donald Trump in September called for an initial truce followed by steps towards a wider peace. So far, as part of the first phase, there has been the exchange of captives held by Hamas in Gaza and prisoners in Israeli jails, and a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from the enclave.
However, Israeli attacks continue. Since the truce went into effect, more than 414 Palestinians have been killed and 1,142 wounded in ceasefire violations, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health.
Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza has killed at least 71,266 Palestinians and wounded 171,219 since October 2023.
Coronation Street star Jack P Shepherd has been flooded with support from fans and friends
Angie Quinn Screen Time Reporter
17:13, 28 Dec 2025Updated 17:14, 28 Dec 2025
Coronation Street star Jack P Shepherd has received an outpouring of support from fans following a joint marriage update with his wife.
The 37-year-old actor, who first appeared on our screens in the ITV soap at the tender age of 12, is best known for his role as David Platt, the mischievous son of Martin Platt, portrayed by Sean Wilson, and Gail, played by Helen Worth.
Over the years, David’s character has been central to numerous dramatic storylines, including pushing his mum down the stairs in a near-fatal incident, seeking revenge on villain Richard Hillman, and a heart-wrenching suicide plot.
The couple tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony in Manchester earlier this year, surrounded by their nearest and dearest. The wedding came a year after Jack romantically popped the question to Hanni during a dreamy safari holiday, reports the Daily Star.
Joining the happy couple at their celebration were several of Jack’s Coronation Street co-stars, including Lucy Fallon, Alan Halsall, Tina O’Brien, and, notably, his former on-screen mum Helen Worth. Celebrity Big Brother co-star Chris Hughes was also among the showbiz friends in attendance.
This Christmas marked the first festive season that Jack and Hanni have enjoyed as husband and wife, and they took to social media to share snippets of their celebrations.
In one photograph, Jack and Hanni are captured wearing stunning outfits as they stand before a Christmas tree. Another image shows Hanni displaying her glittering wedding bands.
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Hanni wrote alongside the post: “Our first Christmas as Mr and Mrs Shepherd. We hope you all had a magical one.”
Admirers and pals of the newlyweds flooded the comments section with congratulations, with one person commenting, “Beautiful photos, beautiful couple.”
Another declared: “Power couple (flame emoji)”, whilst a third added: “Looks amazing.”
“Happy Xmas Mr and Mrs Shepherd”, one follower gushed, while someone else said: “You both look lush.”
Jack has marked 25 years portraying David Platt on Coronation Street. Presently, on the ITV drama, David and his wife, Shona (Julia Goulding), are awaiting their first child together, though they’ve recently faced a devastating choice.
During a standard appointment, Shona and David learned their unborn daughter faces complications, as a scan showed a mass/tumour on the baby’s neck, necessitating risky surgery or termination.
Shona remains resolute about having her baby, and the pair are proceeding with the pregnancy. Nevertheless, further dramatic tension awaits the couple as Corrie links up with Emmerdale.
In a preview for the special episode, broadcasting on January 5, Shona and expectant Charity Dingle (Emma Atkins) from the Dales are shown in distress following a car crash. Will Shona and David emerge unscathed?
Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday on ITV and ITVX
Myanmar’s election is unlikely to change the reality for more than 1M Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh who fled what the UN called ‘genocidal violence’ in Myanmar. Efforts to repatriate the Muslim minority have stalled since the junta seized power in 2021. Al Jazeera’s Tanvir Chowdhury reports from Cox’s Bazar.
Israel has held Gaza doctor Hussam Abu Safia for an entire year without charge. His son is pleading for his release, describing his father’s mistreatment in detention and recalling his refusal to abandon his patients at Kamal Adwan Hospital.
PROSECUTORS at the helm of the murder case against Nick Reiner have a chance to pull a “historically uncommon” move if they pursue the death penalty, an attorney has warned.
Nick Reiner pictured at the premiere of Spinal Tap II: The End Continues at The Egyptian Theatre in Los Angeles on September 9Credit: APMichele Singer Reiner and Rob Reiner attend The Wolf Of Wall Street premiere at the Ziegfeld Theatre in New York City in December 2013Credit: GettyNick Reiner, wearing a blue anti-suicide vest, made his first court appearance on December 17 days after he allegedly killed his parents, Rob Reiner and Michele Singer ReinerCredit: Reuters
A plea was not entered, as defense attorney Alan Jackson told the judge that the case against Nick was premature.
Eric Faddis, a criminal defense attorney based in Colorado, believes Nick’s legal team is teeing up for an insanity defense down the road, which he suspects they could have a hard time trying to prove.
“In order to prove that, how that works is that the defense would have to prove it’s more likely than not that [Nick] Reiner had a mental disease or defect, which caused him to not know the difference between right or wrong or to not understand the nature of his conduct,” Faddis, who is not associated with the case, told The U.S. Sun.
“So, that’s a high bar. It’s not like in the movies where people get off on insanity regularly. Prevailing on a not guilty by reason of insanity defense is uncommon. But it’s still certainly possible.”
Nick had been diagnosed with schizophrenia some time before he allegedly slaughtered his parents, according to TMZ.
The troubled middle child of Reiner, 78, and Singer, 68, was reportedly being treated by a psychiatrist for his condition, but in the month before the murders, Nick’s behavior became “alarming” as doctors switched his medication.
Weeks before the murders, Nick’s prescription was changed, making him “erratic and dangerous,” TMZ reported.
Nick had been open about his struggles with drug addiction, and admitted in a 2016 interview with People that he had been to rehab dozens of times since he was 15 years old.
Faddis said the claims of Nick’s reported mental health disorder could be “supportive of a not guilty by reason of insanity defense.”
“Doesn’t mean he’ll win, but it sounds like they’re compiling evidence in support of that defense,” he added.
UNCOMMON PURSUIT
Nick has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said he has not decided whether his office will pursue the death penalty against Nick.
However, Faddis said with Hochman at the helm, it would not be surprising if the district attorney sought to sentence Nick to death.
“It’s hard to say. Historically, Los Angeles has not been the most death penalty-friendly county,” Faddis said.
“It’s not something they pursue commonly, as compared to like Utah or something like that.
“But, with Nathan Hochman at the helm, you know, he has made some unexpected moves on different cases, including the Menendez brothers’ case that he was on.
“There was sort of this social movement to try and get the Menendez brothers released. And I think a lot of people thought perhaps Hochman would go along with that, but he didn’t.”
“So, if he did pursue the death penalty in this case, it would be historically uncommon, but not totally unexpected just based on how Hochman has made decisions in other cases.”
Rob Reiner and his son Nick pictured together at the 2015 Toronto International Film FestivalCredit: SplashThe Reiner family from front to back: Jake Reiner, Michele Singer Reiner, Romy Reiner, Rob Reiner, and Nick ReinerCredit: Instagram/michelereinerAn aerial view of Rob Reiner’s home in Brentwood in Los AngelesCredit: EPA
HOLLYWOOD NIGHTMARE
Reiner and Singer died minutes after they were allegedly brutally attacked by their son, according to their death certificates.
The iconic filmmaker’s time of death was recorded as 3:45 pm on December 14, while his wife’s was noted as 3:46 pm.
The grisly scene at Reiner’s Brentwood home was only uncovered after a massage therapist arrived at the couple’s front gate for a scheduled appointment on the afternoon of December 14, according to The New York Times.
After the therapist received no answer at the front gate, she decided to call the couple’s daughter, Romy, who reportedly lived in the area.
When Romy, 27, arrived and entered her parents’ home, she stumbled upon the gruesome scene and reportedly came across her father’s body first.
Reiner and Singer were found in their bed with their throats slashed and could have been asleep when they were murdered, the Daily Mail reported.
When Los Angeles police arrived at the scene at around 3:30 pm, Romy told authorities that her brother Nick lived in their parents’ home.
However, authorities were unable to locate Nick on the property.
Nick was eventually arrested at around 9:15 pm near Exposition Park, about 14 miles from where his parents were found dead, Alan Hamilton, the deputy police chief at the LAPD, said.
Moments later, after exiting the gas station, the video captured three police cruisers swarming Nick at a nearby sidewalk.
Nick was seen raising his hands and surrendering to police as multiple officers approached him and took him into custody.
Timeline of Rob and Michele Reiner’s death
Rob Reiner and his wife of Michele Singer Reiner were found dead in their Los Angeles home on December 14, 2025.
Timeline:
December 13, 2025: Reiner and his wife Michele attended a holiday party on the evening of December 13 with their son, Nick.
Sources conveyed to The U.S. Sun that the couple and their son were engaged in a heated public argument while at the event.
December 14, 2025: Reiner and Michele were found dead in their Brentwood home in Los Angeles at around 3:30 pm PST.
The couple’s daughter, Romy, reportedly discovered her parents’ bodies.
Online police records show Reiner and Michele’s 32-year-old son, Nick, was arrested at 9:15 pm PST on December 14.
December 15, 2025: Authorities in Los Angeles announce that Nick Reiner was arrested and charged with murder.
Nick was booked into a Los Angeles jail at 5:04 am and was being held on $4 million bail, which was later revoked.
December 16, 2025: Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman formally charged Nick Reiner with two counts of first-degree murder.
Hochman said his office would consider the death penalty in Nick’s case.
Nick’s scheduled court appearance on December 16 was postponed due to what his attorney said was a procedural issue.
December 17, 2025: Nick Reiner briefly appeared in court. A plea was not entered.
December 23, 2025: The death certificates of Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner disclosed that the couple died of multiple sharp force injuries caused with “a knife, by another.”
Former winner Rob Cross cruised through at the PDC World Championship and set up a last-16 tie against defending champion Luke Littler.
Cross, who won the event in 2018, brushed aside Australian and 16th seed Damon Heta in a comfortable 4-0 win.
The 17th seed was joined in round four by two-time winner Gary Anderson, who edged a final-set thriller against Dutchman Gary Wattimena.
Scot Anderson went 3-1 up in a game played at a ferocious pace, and was impressive in averaging 121 in set three.
He missed three match darts in the fourth set, hitting double eight with his first dart with 32 required, before missing the same target twice.
Wattimena powered back and forced a final set, despite Anderson missing more match darts at tops in set four.
Anderson went eight darts into the nine-darter in the final set, before going high on the double 12, and eventually claimed the set 5-3 to continue his quest to be the tournament’s oldest winner at 55.
He averaged 102.24 – the eighth-highest average in this year’s tournament – and was at 37.5% on the checkouts.
“It’s no good for my age. It’s hard, especially with Jermaine on you. What a game,” Anderson told Sky Sports.
“The last two games, 4-0, 4-0. I hope that’s made up for it. I’m going to lie down now.
“I bottled the nine-darter, like I bottled a lot of doubles. I was getting excited, I don’t often do that up there. But I got it done.”
Sunday’s action began with 20th seed Ryan Searle reaching the fourth round for the first time since 2021 with a 4-0 demolition of Germany’s Martin Schindler.
The military rulers expand emergency powers, warning that people, property, and services may be requisitioned.
Published On 28 Dec 202528 Dec 2025
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Niger’s military rulers have approved a general mobilisation and authorised the requisition of people and goods as they intensify the fight against armed groups across the country, according to a government statement.
The decision followed a cabinet meeting on Friday and marks a major escalation by the military government, which seized power in a July 2023 coup that toppled the country’s democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum.
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“People, property, and services may be requisitioned during general mobilisation to contribute to the defence of the homeland, in compliance with the legislation and regulations in force,” the government said in a statement issued late on Saturday.
“Every citizen is required to respond immediately to any call-up or recall order, to comply without delay with the implementation of measures for the defence of the homeland, and to submit to requisition,” it added.
The authorities said the measures aim to “preserve the integrity of the national territory” and “protect the population” as Niger continues to face attacks by armed groups operating across several regions.
Niger has been embroiled in deadly armed conflict for more than a decade, with violence linked to fighters affiliated with al-Qaeda and the ISIL (ISIS) group. Nearly 2,000 people have been killed, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED), which tracks political violence.
The southeast of the country has also suffered repeated attacks by Boko Haram and its splinter group, the ISIL affiliate in West Africa Province (ISWAP), further stretching Niger’s security forces.
The mobilisation order comes five years after Niger expanded its armed forces to around 50,000 troops and raised the retirement age for senior officers from 47 to 52. Since taking power, the military government has also urged citizens to make “voluntary” financial contributions to a fund launched in 2023 to support military spending and agricultural projects.
Soon after the coup, Niger’s rulers ordered French and United States troops, who had supported operations to combat rebel fighters, to withdraw from the country.
Niger has since deepened security cooperation with neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso, also ruled by a military government. The three Sahel states have formed a joint force of 5,000 troops, presenting it as a regional response to armed groups while further distancing themselves from Western partners.
YouTuber Steve Marsh and partner Alicja had their Christmas dinner at Sherry’s Bar in Benidorm and were stunned when the bill for their three-course meal with wine arrived at their table
A couple had Christmas dinner in Benidorm (stock)(Image: Thomas Barwick via Getty Images)
A YouTuber who enjoyed a three-course Christmas feast in Benidorm with his other half has confessed they were taken aback by the final bill.
Steve Marsh jetted off to the Spanish resort with his partner Alicja, where the couple tucked into their festive meal at Sherry’s Bar.
As they left the restaurant, Steve and Alicja chatted about the cost – €70 for the pair, working out at just over £61 for two – with Alicja admitting her shock that it wasn’t €70 each, hailing the establishment for its excellent value.
Following the meal, Steve declared himself “broken” after demolishing the generous roast dinner complete with all the trimmings and wine, which came as part of the package.
Before heading off for a dip in the sea, he remarked: “But to be able to get a Christmas dinner in Spain on the 24th of December, that was pretty good wasn’t it? Oh boy. Nobody said it was easy.”
While Steve and Alicja opted for a Benidorm Christmas, questions have been raised about what the future holds for this beloved British holiday hotspot.
In recent times, Europe has witnessed repeated waves of anti-tourism demonstrations, with residents voicing their frustrations.
Consequently, there are worries that visitors might look elsewhere, potentially damaging local European economies.
Benidorm isn’t shielded from these economic shifts, with one visitor branding it a “ghost town” and “empty” during a late summer visit. The TikToker, posting as @yorkshirebargainhunter, shared clips online revealing just how deserted Benidorm has become, according to the Express.
They remarked: “If you’re in Benidorm right now, what do you think? Why do you think it’s so quiet? Why is nobody around? Even this bar here is fully shut down.
“We’re in the height of summer. Everywhere should be absolutely rammed, but it’s not. It’s absolutely dead. This is one of the main strips in Benidorm and it should be absolutely rammed.”
Amid reports of declining visitor numbers, tourism bosses have indicated that holidaymakers might be staying away because they no longer feel welcomed.
Speaking to the Majorca Daily Bulletin, Miguel Pérez-Marsá, head of the nightlife association, said: “The tourists we’re interested in are being driven away; they don’t feel welcome and are going to other destinations.”
Fighting has broken out at a demonstration in the city of Latakia in Syria, killing at least three people and injuring dozens. Hundreds of people from the Alawite minority were protesting in coastal and central parts of the country, two days after a mosque was bombed in Homs.
Following claims that he “corpses deliberately” on The Chase, a long-time friend has revealed what Bradley Walsh is really like when the cameras stop rolling
Bradley Walsh hit back at claims of him faking reactions on The Chase (Image: ITV)
A friend and colleague of Bradley Walsh has revealed what it’s been like working alongside The Chase presenter for over four decades. The 64-year-old host has been at the helm of the ITV quiz programme since its launch in 2009.
Never one to take things too seriously, Bradley regularly has a laugh with the chasers and contestants and has been known to be left in hysterics over amusing questions and responses.
One of his most unforgettable moments occurred when he couldn’t contain his laughter over a query about German skier Fanny Chmelar.
After some viewers accused him of faking his reactions, Bradley set the record straight, insisting he doesn’t know what’s coming next.
“I don’t pre-read them, I do it as it is, I literally play the game,” he explained. “If I get a reaction, then it’s much better.”
During an appearance on Laura Hamilton’s Mile Fly Club podcast, he added: “I’ll read what’s on the autocue and half the time, I don’t realise what I’ve said,” reports the Express.
Discussing the infamous Fanny Chmelar incident, Bradley went on to say: “And people, still today, think I’m corpsing deliberately but I’m not, that’s actually me laughing, I had no idea that was [coming] up.”
Backing his long-time friend, Joe Pasquale said The Chase host is the same person on and off screen.
“Bradley is what you see, he does what he says on the tin, what you see is what you get with Brad,” the comedian revealed.
“We’ve been mates for 40 years, myself, Brian [Conley] and Shane [Richie], we all started off together, which is what’s great about The Prat Pack tour.”
Beyond their joint touring, Joe also recently caught Bradley off guard when he turned up as the fresh quizmaster on Beat The Chasers.
Joe joined the panel for a special one-off episode, adopting the moniker Maverick.
Prior to unveiling his true self, Joe was given strict instructions to keep his identity under wraps from the Chasers, audiences, and particularly Bradley.
Speaking about the measures he took to remain disguised, he revealed: “I’d been on the road with Bradley all year, we’ve known each other for 40 years but literally just before filming we had been on the road together. He knows me inside out, he knows my body movements.
“I had to be really calm because I talk really fast and I’m very physical, the producer said, ‘Don’t move, just keep really still and talk very slowly so he doesn’t suss it’s you.’ So it was quite hard for me.”
Thankfully, the comedian succeeded in concealing his identity from Bradley, leaving the presenter “genuinely surprised” by his reveal.
When questioned whether the host was miffed by his deception, he quipped: “He’s never furious with me, he’s like my big brother.”
Joe is appearing in Swansea Grand’s Aladdin until 4 January 2026. The Chase: Celebrity Christmas Special broadcasts tonight at 5.35pm on ITV.
For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new Everything Gossip website.
Despite his standing in the game, Morris was a friendly and unassuming presence around Glamorgan’s home ground in Cardiff, always happy to stop for a chat with supporters and occasionally helping ticket staff on busier matchdays.
He was a patron of Heads Up, a charity supporting research into head and neck cancer, after surviving throat cancer diagnosed in 2002, and was appointed MBE 20 years later for services to cricket and charity.
Morris was diagnosed with bowel cancer in January 2022 and, having returned to work later that year, left his role as Glamorgan chief executive in September 2023 to spend time with his family as he underwent treatment.
When he was inducted into the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame in 2024, Morris could not be at the ceremony because he was attending a family wedding.
When organisers surprised him by presenting him with the award at his local golf club, Morris was genuinely taken aback – an endearingly sincere reaction from a man who achieved so much yet remained so humble, warm and human throughout.
Iran’s former foreign minister argues Israel, backed by the US, has killed every opportunity for peace.
Months after being attacked by the United States and Israel, Iran finds itself in the crosshairs again, with Israeli officials lobbying US President Donald Trump to address Tehran’s ballistic missiles.
Veteran Iranian diplomat Javad Zarif tells host Steve Clemons that “everybody lost any faith in diplomacy” after Israel and the US attacked Iran following five rounds of reconciliation talks between Washington and Tehran.
Zarif added that Israel has historically thwarted every opportunity for reconciliation between Iran and the US, and that Trump’s style of diplomacy is disastrous, as it creates “negotiations that end up in war”.
AS the year comes to a close, most theme parks across the UK have shut up shop for the season.
But theme park fanatics have plenty to look forward to in 2026, as both thrillseekers and families with young children can expect new favourites.
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Fans of Bluey can ride a new coaster at Alton Towers’ CBeebies LandCredit: Alton TowersThe Octonauts ride is a popular choice at CBeebies LandCredit: Alton Towers Resort
2026 is set to be a huge year in the world of theme parks and attractions – here are the most exciting new rides and rollercoasters set to open next year.
Bluey Ride, Alton Towers, UK
Alton Towers will welcome the world’s first ever Bluey coaster next year.
The new addition will sit inside of Alton Towers’ CBeebies Land, home to rides like the Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure and Peter Rabbit Hippity Hop.
As well as enjoying a brand new ride, Bluey fans can take part in the popular Heeler family interactive show, and stay to meet Bluey and Bingo afterwards.
Excitement is building as Disneyland Paris prepares to open their World of Frozen land in Spring 2026.
The new land will see the introduction of a new ride at Disneyland Paris: Frozen Ever After.
The frosty land of Arendelle is bought to life in the brand new World of FrozenCredit: Disneyland ParisFrozen Ever After already exists as a ride at the Disney World EPCOT park in Florida USACredit: Disney WorldThe ride is already a popular choice amongst EPCOT visitorsCredit: Getty
The ride is inspired by the popular version at Disneyworld’s EPCOT in Florida.
Boarding this boat-themed ride will take visitors on a journey through the familiar scenes of Disney’s Frozen.
Fans can sing along to Frozen tunes as they look out for the movie’s popular characters in animatronic form.
Frozen Ever After will be less of a fear-inducing ride and more of an immersive experience.
It is a slow-moving journey with descents down short waterfalls – so bare in mind that you might get wet!
Visitors will also be able to stroll through Arendelle, as well as meet Anna, Elsa and Olaf.
Frozen Ever After, and the World of Frozen land, is set to open on 29 March 2026.
Drakon and Vild Swing, Paultons Park, UK
Paultons Park in Hampshire are due to open their first ever inverting rollercoaster, as well as a Wild Swing ride in the spring of 2026.
The amusement park is home to the famous Peppa Pig World, but new coaster Drakon is set to thrill an older crowd.
Drakon is set to be one of the most exhilerating rides at Paultons ParkCredit: Paultons ParkThe ride will be ready in time for 2026Credit: Paultons Park
Drakon riders can expect to coast their way up a vertical lift hill before plummeting into a beyond vertical drop.
The terrifying drop means that riders will hang over the edge at an angle greater than 90°, or steeper than falling straight down.
As well as this, visitors can expect to regularly ride upside down, due to the inverting design.
The inverting coaster even intertwines with Raven – the new name for the park’s Gerstlauer Bobsled ride previously named Cobra.
As well as Drakon, the park will be introducing the ‘Vild Swing’ ride.
Vild Swing is a 12m-high ART Wild Swing ride, the first of its kind to land in the UK.
Valgard – The Realm of Vikings will open in 2026Credit: Paultons ParkPaultons Park is popular amongst families for its for Peppa Pig WorldCredit: Paultons Park
The family-friendly ride is a free-swinging gondola with no rollovers, therefore it will be more of a gentle thrill than Drakon.
The rides will be part of the theme park’s brand new Viking-themed world: Valgard – Realm of the Vikings.
The new themed area cost roughly £12m to build, and is set to open in May 2026.
Spider-themed ride, Gröna Lund, Sweden
Gröna Lund (or “Green Grove”) in Sweden is Stockholm’s oldest amusement park.
It’s located on Stockholm‘s DjurgårdenIsland, and has over 30 rides.
The park is home to a mix of both thrilling coasters and family-friendly rides, and is now set to open a brand new thrill ride: Spindeln (The Spider).
Spindeln will be a Super Jumper ride – the first of its kind to arrive in Sweden.
Created by the Italian SBF Visa Group, the Super Jumper is made up of multiple arms which rise and fall quickly, designed to look like the spider’s legs.
The terrifying spider ride is complete with the latest new harnessing technologyCredit: Gröna LundGröna Lund sits on the waterfront in Stockholm, SwedenCredit: Gröna Lund
This creates a bouncing effect as the central tower rotates, meaning riders can expect plenty of spooky sudden jumps and spins.
The thrill ride has space for 42 riders, and is ideal for older and younger guests alike.
Spindeln will be the first Super Jumper in the world to allow younger children to ride, with a minimum height requirement of 100cm when accompanied by an adult.
The coaster is set to open to the public in Summer 2026.
Raiponce Tangled Spin, Disneyland Paris
March 2026 will see Disneyland Paris open up not one, but two brand new themed worlds.
As well as introducing the brand new World of Frozen, the land previously known as Walt Disney Studios Park will become Disney Adventure World.
The park revamp also sees the addition of a brand new ride, Raiponce Tangled Spin.
Raiponce Tangled Spin is a spinning miniature boat rideCredit: Disneyland paris
Visitors will be able to climb aboard a small gondola that gently turns under sparkling lanterns, just like the famous scene in the film Tangled.
The glowing lanterns illuminate ceiling paintings inspired by those made by the princess in the popular movie.
This will be the second standalone Tangled themed ride across Disney parks worldwide, alongside Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival at Tokyo DisneySea.
The gentle ride is suitable for all ages, and will open alongside Frozen Ever After on 29 March 2026.
Aviktas, Blackpool Pleasure Beach Resort, UK
Blackpool’s Pleasure Beach is known for its rides such as Valhalla, Big Dipper as well as its Nickelodeon Land.
And now the amusement park have invested £8.72m into a new ride, set to be the tallest of its kind in the UK by almost double.
Aviktas will be a Gyro Swing ride – a giant spinning pendulum seating 40 visitors.
Riders will face outwards to sea as they swing 120°, reaching a maximum height of 138 feet.
Pleasure Beach Resort’s new addition will tower over the parkCredit: Pleasure Beach Resort
The Gyro Swing ride is “one of the most exciting flat rides in existence” said CEO of Pleasure Beach Resort, Amanda Thompson OBE.
“It’s dynamic, fast, and incredibly high, as well as being completely weightless at the top”.
Aviktas is currently under construction, and due to open in 2026.
The amusement park also recently revamped their Launch Pad ride.
The shot tower ride had its cylinder replaced and reopened in May of 2025.
This made for more powerful launches, intense g-force, and moments of weightlessness.
“This is a great re-imagining. The ride has got back its ‘oomph’” said Scott Bickerton, owner of YouTube channel Your Experience Guide.
The resort is one of Blackpool’s most popular attractionsCredit: Pleasure Beach Resort
“You can really feel the g-force and there’s a great moment of airtime at the top. It’s amazing to have this ride back.”
Alton Towers hosts Bluey meet and greets and even themed hotel roomsCredit: Alton towers
“It’s something we have to improve. I would say at least 75% of the time or even more, it’s not even about the first contact. It’s the second phase that is the killer.
“Is it a mental thing? I hope not. If that’s in your head then it’s an issue. Personally, it’s not in my head.”
Excluding penalties, Liverpool have only scored three goals from set-pieces in the league. Their difference of minus nine is their worst in a Premier League season.
“We have defended so many set-pieces very well. But we’ve conceded too many goals like that and it hurts. We have to improve that. Training is the only way to get better at it,” Van Dijk added.
“It’s not been good enough. We all realise that. We have spoken about it. We need to turn it around. That’s why we work on it almost every training session.”
Liverpool manager Slot said: “Unfortunately we’re maybe the only team that hardly ever scores from a set-piece and, even worse, we constantly concede.
“But then, I think I said two, three or four weeks ago, we have to make sure that when things go against us – it could be a set-piece, it could be other things – we still need to find a way to win.
“In the last two games we conceded from a set-piece but we were able to win and that hasn’t happened many times this season. That’s progress for me, but it’s obvious there are more things for us to improve and this is definitely one of them.
“I think we have been unlucky in multiple situations in our set-pieces. It is 18 games now and we need to improve.”
Liverpool’s third league win in a row took them up to fourth in the table.
Si King returns to TV in his first solo series since co-star Dave Myers’ death in February 2024
Hairy Bikers star Si King is preparing to return to television screens with his first solo programme following the heartbreaking death of his close friend and co-presenter Dave Myers.
The new television venture, scheduled to broadcast on Channel 4 and markedly different from the duo’s previous culinary programmes, was initially announced during the summer months.
Dave tragically died from cancer in February 2024, at the age of 66. His passing brought an inevitable conclusion to the beloved television partnership’s time as the Hairy Bikers, with Si honouring Dave through a final programme entitled The Hairy Bikers: You’ll Never Ride Alone.
Previously, Si, 59, explained he would be departing from the “adventure-style” BBC programmes the duo had become renowned for. The broadcaster has now confirmed his fresh TV project, Britain’s Favourite Railway Stations with Si King, will launch next year on January 8.
Promo for the programme reveals it will feature “Si King, Siddy Holloway and Damion Burrows explore the extraordinary spaces that take us beyond catching a train to the hidden worlds where heritage, technology and community converge.”
Si, an avid railway enthusiast, will encounter the personnel who maintain the railway system’s smooth operation. The programme will also showcase Britain’s engineering achievements and a rail network comprising over 2,600 stations in its debut series for Channel 4.
Clemency Green, Senior Commissioning Editor at Channel 4, commented on the forthcoming series: “As the rail network turns 200 years old, this series will spotlight the best of our country’s engineering history in a different way.
“We’re honoured that Si will be presenting his first series for More4, and Yeti will no doubt deliver a captivating series that viewers will love to escape into.”
Anna Davies, Executive Producer at Yeti Television, added: “There’s something uniquely British about our love of railways – but usually it’s the trains, not the stations, that get the limelight.
“There are so many amazing stories to be uncovered in stations big and small, with unique characters who run them and incredible history, and Si is the perfect person to be taking us on that journey.”
Discussing future television projects following his time with the Hairy Bikers, Si previously reflected: “It would be different because you know that was Dave and I. He’s no longer with us, so no, it would have to be different. I would want it to be different.”
Embarking on a solo venture for the first time after two decades as part of a beloved partnership, Si has joined This Morning this year as a regular chef contributing to their cookery segments.
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