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Opinions are split as Australia prepares to ban social media for under-16s

Melbourne (AFP) – Parents and children express their mixed views on Australia’s imminent ban for under-16s to join social media, which will come into effect on December 10. Australia’s world-first legislation will apply to the most popular social media platforms and websites, including TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. There is keen interest in whether Australia’s sweeping restrictions can work as regulators around the globe wrestle with the potential dangers of social media.

©AFP

Benin’s interior minister says coup attempt has been ‘foiled’

Benin’s interior minister says that the army has thwarted an attempted coup by a group of soldiers who said they had ousted President Patrice Talon. “A small group of soldiers launched a mutiny with the aim of destabilising the country and its institutions,” says Alassane Seidou, adding that the army’s response “ensured control of the situation and foiled the attempt”.

Belfast Christmas market bans sale of AI-generated artwork

In Belfast, the battle between technology and tradition is playing out at an artists’ market. Organisers of the annual Christmas fair have banned AI-generated artwork, insisting on “human creativity” as artificial intelligence floods the art world.

Models glide on pirogues during Dakar’s ocean-themed Fashion Week

Dakar (AFP) – The traditional runway is replaced by pirogues ferrying models between Dakar and the island of Ngor at Dakar fashion week. “The theme was the ocean, the magic of the sea and fashion combined,” says Senegales fashion designer and organiser Adama Paris. 

©AFP

Sharaa says Israeli push for buffer zone would endanger Syria

Doha (AFP) – Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa warns that Israel’s demand for a demilitarised zone in southern Syria would endanger his country, as Israeli forces continue to operate in the area. US President Donald Trump, who has been pushing for a security pact between Israel and Syria, has told Israel to avoid destabilising Syria and its new leadership.

©AFP

Activists throw food at Britain’s Crown Jewels

London (AFP) – Activists from a little-known, self-proclaimed civil resistance group called Take Back Power throw food — purportedly apple crumble and custard — at a display case containing Britain’s priceless Crown Jewels in the Tower of London. London police say four people were arrested following the incident.

©AFP

Nuts and beer: booze-free bar offers Saudis a pub vibe

Riad (AFP) – In Riyadh, women in niqabs and men in traditional white robes sip alcohol-free pints, with no expectation of a hangover. The incongruous scene signals the changes under way in the conservative kingdom, which is home to Islam’s holiest sites, while gently prodding at deep-seated taboos. Booze has been banned in Saudi Arabia since 1952.

©AFP

ICE agents ‘provoke fear’ in New York immigration court

New York (AFP) – In the corridors of New York’s 26 Federal Plaza, US immigration police agents arrest asylum seekers as they leave the courtroom. Since returning to the White House in January, US President Donald Trump has made tackling illegal immigration a priority, with the push for a massive wave of deportations central to his 2024 presidential campaign.

©AFP

Winter smog blankets Pakistan’s capital

Islamabad (AFP) – Winter smog blankets Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad. The South Asian country regularly ranks among the world’s most polluted countries. Experts say the pollution is primarily caused by factory and traffic emissions, worsening in winter as cooler temperatures and slow-moving winds trap the deadly pollutants. The smog can cause sore throats, stinging eyes and respiratory illnesses, while prolonged exposure can trigger strokes, heart disease and lung cancer.

©AFP

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