The Biden administration has declined to veto a ruling by the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) that bans imports of certain Apple Watch models due to a patent dispute brought by Masimo. The dispute is over the pulse reader feature of the Apple Watch, which measures the level of oxygen in the user's blood. Apple has not yet commented on the ruling, but is likely to appeal the decision. Masimo is likely to be pleased with the outcome, and it remains to be seen how Apple will respond.
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Syrian armed forces have shot down eight drones near Aleppo and Idlib, while in Gaza, residents are fleeing in response to an Israeli evacuation order. U.S. officials have called for a reduction in civilian casualties, but the conflict in Gaza continues to worsen as civilians are driven into smaller areas of refuge.
On Christmas Day, families around the world celebrated the holiday with traditions both ancient and new. In Bethlehem, a nativity scene honoring the victims in Gaza was placed in Manger Square, near the Nativity Church. The war in Gaza has been ongoing since 2014, causing immense suffering for the people of Gaza and a looming humanitarian crisis in the region. The Christmas season is a time of joy and celebration, but this year, the holiday was marked by the tragedy of war and the suffering of innocent people.
On December 25th, the United States accused Iran of being "deeply involved" in a drone attack on an Iraqi military base that left three U.S. service members wounded. In response, President Joe Biden ordered retaliatory strikes against Iranian-backed militia groups and the U.S. has long accused Iran of supporting militant groups in the Middle East. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the President was briefed and held a call with his national security team before ordering the strikes.
Ukrainians celebrated Christmas on December 25th for the first time this year, after the government changed the date from January 7th. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy released a Christmas message praising Ukraine’s “capabilities in negotiations with partners” and referring to the country’s claim to have destroyed three Russian fighter planes on Friday. Ukrainians celebrated with church services, prayer, and a Christmas dinner, and are hopeful that the new year will bring further progress in the fight for freedom.
Americans are expected to spend nearly $30 billion on gift cards this holiday season, with restaurant gift cards making up one-third of sales. It is important to consider expiration dates and inactivity fees when giving or receiving gift cards, and to remind the recipient to use the card before it expires. Following these tips can ensure that your gift card is used and enjoyed.
In his annual Christmas address, King Charles III of the United Kingdom and Commonwealth nations spoke of the importance of human kindness and urged people to care for one another and the planet. He reflected his coronation theme of public service, connecting it to the message of Jesus' life in serving those less fortunate and the health of the planet. His words serve as a reminder of the importance of caring for one another and the planet, and of the power of human kindness.
A charter plane carrying 303 Indians had been grounded at the Vatry Airport in Champagne country for four days due to a human trafficking investigation. On Monday, the plane departed with 276 of the original passengers en route to Mumbai, while the remaining 25 passengers requested asylum in France. The investigation is ongoing, and the identities of the passengers and crew have not been released.