Lebanon's first official census of Palestinian refugees reveals a population of 174,422, significantly lower than previous estimates of 450,000. The census, conducted by Lebanese and Palestinian statisticians, aims to provide accurate data for better planning and resource allocation. Palestinian leaders hope the lower numbers will encourage improved rights and living conditions. The census also highlights high unemployment rates among young Palestinians and calls for increased international aid to UNRWA. Lebanon's political factions, including the far-right Kataeb party, have accepted the census results.

Lebanon's first official census of Palestinian refugees reveals a population of 174,422, significantly lower than previous estimates of 450,000. The census, conducted by Lebanese and Palestinian statisticians, aims to provide accurate data for better resource allocation and policy-making. Palestinian leaders hope the lower numbers will encourage improved rights and living conditions. The census also highlights high unemployment rates among young Palestinians and the ongoing challenges faced by UNRWA due to funding shortfalls. Lebanon's political factions, including the far-right Kataeb party, have accepted the census results.

In Tripoli, Lebanon, the Beirut-based organization March is working to mend ties between the rival neighborhoods of Bab al-Tabbaneh and Jabal Mohsen by engaging youth, including former combatants, in community rebuilding projects. The initiative includes a café on Syria Street that serves as a gathering place and employs young people to restore businesses damaged in past conflicts. The project addresses both economic and sectarian issues, offering skills training and team-building activities. Despite the positive impact, the initiative's sustainability is uncertain without broader governmental economic and social reforms.

Southern California Edison has decided to permanently shut down the San Onofre nuclear plant, which has been a source of nuclear energy in Southern California for four decades. The plant has been closed for over a year due to a leak of radioactive steam caused by unusual wear on hundreds of tubes in the newly replaced steam generator system. The closure follows a 16-month debate over the plant's future and leaves unresolved the issue of who will bear the more than $1 billion in costs. The shutdown will result in the loss of 1,100 jobs and raises questions about the future of nuclear power in California and the nation. The decommissioning process is expected to be covered by a fund into which Edison has been paying, with an estimated 90% of the costs accounted for. The California Public Utilities Commission is investigating the costs of the outage and the steam generators, with a focus on potential refunds to customers.

The article discusses the challenges faced by mentally ill individuals within the criminal justice system in Los Angeles County and California state prisons. It highlights the case of Reginald Murray, a man diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, who ended up in prison instead of receiving proper mental health care. Los Angeles County officials have announced plans to divert mentally ill individuals from jail and prison, but the number of mentally ill inmates has continued to rise. The article also touches on the decrease in acute psychiatric beds in California and the story of Murray's journey through the criminal justice system, his struggles with mental health, and the impact of his incarceration on his family.

Syrian former detainees Amthal Alnwawy, Abdulhakim Almassri, and Mahmoud recount their harrowing experiences in the notorious Branch 215 detention center in Damascus, where they formed a bond that helped them survive torture and inhumane conditions. The article sheds light on the broader context of arbitrary detention and torture in Syria, with recent international attention on the issue through a landmark trial in Germany and a UN report. Support networks among detainees and post-release aid from organizations like Taafi play a crucial role in helping survivors cope and rebuild their lives.

Palestinian refugees in Lebanon, including those in the Bourj al-Barajneh camp, reject the US-proposed plan for the Israel-Palestine conflict, which they believe undermines their right to return to their homeland. The plan, unveiled by Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu, suggests land swaps and resettlement options that fall short of Palestinian demands. Lebanese officials and Palestinian representatives uniformly oppose the plan, emphasizing the right of return and criticizing the proposal for compensation in lieu of this right. The plan has sparked protests and strong statements from various Lebanese political factions and Palestinian leaders.

African refugees and asylum seekers in Lebanon, primarily from Sudan and Ethiopia, have been protesting for months outside the UNHCR headquarters in Beirut, demanding better treatment and faster processing of their cases. They allege neglect and racism, claiming their files have been closed without clear reasons and that they face potential deportation. The UNHCR maintains that it treats all refugees equally and follows international law. The economic crisis in Lebanon has exacerbated the situation, making it harder for refugees to survive. Advocacy groups criticize the UNHCR for not doing enough to support African refugees and for allegedly using force to disperse protests.

Lebanon's 'October revolution' began on October 17, 2019, with protests against regressive tax proposals and a failing political system. The movement quickly grew, leading to the resignation of Prime Minister Saad Hariri. Protesters demand a technocratic government, early parliamentary elections, and an investigation into corruption. The protests highlight Lebanon's complex sectarian political system and economic struggles, including a currency crisis. Key figures like President Michel Aoun and Hezbollah's Hassan Nasrallah play significant roles, with concerns about potential political violence and economic collapse if a new government is not swiftly formed.

The ruins of Sukhothai, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Thailand, represent the remnants of the Thai state's first capital with 700-year-old temples and shrines. It was an important center for worship, politics, commerce, and culture, known for its ceramics industry and hydraulic engineering. Despite its eventual absorption by the Ayutthaya kingdom, the religious monuments of Sukhothai have survived, and the area has been restored, resulting in the Sukhothai Historical Park, which offers visitors a serene environment for exploration and meditation.

Cuba, an island nation historically isolated by the seas, was one of the first countries in Latin America to develop a rail system, primarily driven by the needs of sugar producers. Today, the railways serve the rural population, providing an affordable but often unreliable means of transportation. Colombian photographer Eliana Aponte embarked on a project to capture life aboard these aging trains, highlighting the resilience and spirit of the Cuban people through her journey from Havana to Santiago de Cuba.

Russia's vast and diverse heritage is showcased through its 28 UNESCO World Heritage sites, which include magnificent cathedrals, mosques, government palaces, and citadels, reflecting the country's rich history and culture. Additionally, Russia's natural beauty is represented by arctic landscapes, untouched lakes, and mountain ranges, home to polar bears, walruses, and snow leopards. The designation of these sites surged in the early 1990s following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, marking a significant opening to Western tourism and cultural exchange.

French photographer Yoann Cimier, while vacationing on Djerba island in Tunisia, captured the unique and elaborate beach shelters set up by Tunisian locals. These makeshift encampments, which Cimier views as a symbol of freedom and a continuation of Tunisia’s Bedouin heritage, contrast with the regulated beach camping in the West. Despite recent security concerns affecting Tunisia's travel industry, the country's beaches are gaining popularity, with tourism numbers expected to reach a record high.

Turkey's tourism industry is recovering after a significant decline due to security and political concerns, including terrorist attacks and a failed coup attempt. The devaluation of the Turkish lira has made the country more attractive to budget-conscious tourists. Foreign visitor numbers dropped from 36.2 million in 2015 to 25.4 million in 2016 but rebounded to 32.4 million in 2017. The largest share of tourists came from Russia, Germany, and the UK. Despite the challenges, travelers like Australian photographer Patricia Sofra have found a new appreciation for Turkish culture and people.

Photographer Stephanie Gengotti's series 'Circus Love' captures the everyday life and magic of Europe's independent circus troupes. Embedded with Cirque Bidon and other family troupes, Gengotti explores the slower, whimsical lifestyle of contemporary circuses that focus on human performances rather than animals. Her work highlights the tight-knit, matriarchal structure of troupes like Les Pêcheurs de Rêves, led by Vincent and Florence Duschmitt. Gengotti's images offer a nostalgic escape from modern life's digital distractions, portraying a poetic and free-spirited way of living.

Sara Macel's photography series, 'What Did the Deep Sea Say,' intertwines her own images with those of her late grandmother, Carolyn, to explore themes of family, solitude, escape, and memory in Hollywood, Florida. The series delves into Carolyn's life during the 1940s, her search for companionship, and the mysterious figure of Father Jim. Hollywood itself, envisioned by Joseph W. Young as a 'Hollywood by the Sea,' becomes a character in this narrative of unfulfilled aspirations and hidden desires.

The Moroccan tradition of Fantasia, also known as lab al baroud or Tbourida, is a stylized reenactment of a wartime cavalry charge, celebrated for its historical significance and the bond between horse and rider. Practiced since the eighth century, it is now performed at weddings and festivals across Morocco, uniting Arab and Berber communities. The most skilled teams compete annually for the Hassan II Trophy in Rabat. Italian-Moroccan photographer Karim El Maktafi, who documented the tradition, describes the event as a fusion between a rodeo and a carnival, emphasizing the synchronization and skill required.

The Lebanon Mountain Trail (LMT) offers hikers a chance to explore Lebanon's diverse landscapes, from cedar forests to ancient monasteries. The trail, established in 2007, runs 292 miles from Andqet in the north to Marjaayoun in the south. It provides an opportunity for Lebanese diaspora and international hikers to reconnect with nature and local communities. However, the trail faces threats from unregulated development, prompting efforts to secure national protection. The LMT Association organizes annual hikes and advocates for the trail's preservation.

ABC canceled the show 'Roseanne' after its star, Roseanne Barr, made a racist tweet about former Obama aide Valerie Jarrett. The tweet likened Jarrett to an ape, leading to backlash and the departure of consulting producer Wanda Sykes. The show, which had been praised by conservatives and criticized by liberals, was abruptly ended despite its high ratings. Barr's history of controversial statements and conspiracy theories further fueled the criticism. The incident highlights the risks ABC took in working with Barr, a known Trump supporter with a contentious public persona.

The article discusses the long-standing controversy over the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository in Nevada. Despite Congress abandoning the project in 2010, recent efforts to revive it have been met with strong opposition from Nevada's senators, Dean Heller and Catherine Cortez Masto. The article delves into the historical context of Nevada's relationship with federal projects, including nuclear testing and waste management, and the state's ongoing resentment towards federal control. It also highlights the political dynamics that could influence the project's future, particularly the potential impact on Heller's re-election campaign.

Baños de Agua Santa in Ecuador, located near the active Tungurahua volcano, offers a range of tourist attractions including natural hot springs, outdoor adventure activities, and the Swing at the End of the World for breathtaking views. The town is also known for its thermal springs, outdoor sports, the Pailon del Diablo waterfall, and the neo-Gothic basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

The 470km-long Lebanon Mountain Trail offers a unique way to experience Lebanon's natural beauty and historical sites, traversing ancient cedar forests, olive orchards, and Roman temples. Key sections include the Qadisha Valley, Shouf Biosphere Reserve, Tannourine, Baskinta, Jezzine, and the Valley of Hell. The trail is supported by the Lebanon Mountain Trail Association, which organizes group hikes and provides resources for solo hikers. The trail offers a mix of natural scenery, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences, including the famous Lebanese hospitality and cuisine.

Heineken faced backlash after Chance the Rapper criticized their ad as 'terribly racist' on Twitter. The ad, which featured the tagline 'Sometimes lighter is better,' was pulled following the controversy. Heineken issued a public apology, acknowledging the unintended racial insensitivity. Chance emphasized the importance of discussion over outrage, warning against sensationalizing such issues as it can inadvertently promote the offending brands.

Jacob Tobia, a genderqueer activist, addresses parents in an open letter, encouraging them to use their children's curiosity about gender nonconformity as a teachable moment. Tobia suggests that instead of shutting down questions, parents should affirm the natural diversity of gender expression, promoting acceptance and reducing stigma. The letter emphasizes the importance of open dialogue in fostering understanding and inclusivity.

Howard Stern, a long-time friend of Donald Trump, suggests that Trump should resign from the presidency and return to his life at Mar-a-Lago. Stern, who supported Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election, believes that the presidency is detrimental to Trump's mental health and happiness. He also expresses disappointment that Trump has not sought his advice since taking office. Stern's comments reflect his opinion that Trump is not suited for the presidency and would be better off stepping down.

Jake Tapper used Bible verses to counter right-wing pastor Greg Locke's defense of Donald Trump following allegations of extramarital affairs. The article critiques the religious right's support for Trump, contrasting it with their past condemnation of Bill Clinton. It highlights the perceived hypocrisy and moral compromises made by evangelical leaders in their political alliances.

A proposed amendment to Lebanon's nationality law by Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil aims to allow Lebanese women to pass citizenship to their children, but excludes those married to Syrians or Palestinians. This exception has drawn criticism from activists and organizations, who argue it perpetuates discrimination. Prime Minister Saad al Hariri and other opponents within the government also object to the discriminatory nature of the proposal. The debate highlights ongoing struggles for gender equality and the complex socio-political dynamics involving refugees in Lebanon.

The humanitarian crisis in Eastern Ghouta, a suburb of Damascus, has drawn international concern due to the severe impact of the Syrian government's military offensive, supported by Russia, on civilians. The area, once known for its agriculture, has been under siege since 2013 and has seen significant casualties and displacement. Despite ceasefire agreements, fighting has intensified, leading to a severe shortage of food and medical supplies. Organizations like the United Nations, Doctors Without Borders, and the Syrian American Medical Society are actively seeking donations to support their efforts in providing aid to those affected. The article also highlights the plight of civilians, including the mass evacuation to areas like Idlib and the ongoing challenges faced by aid groups in accessing the region.

The Rhaetian Railway’s Albula and Bernina lines, spanning 80 miles through the Swiss Alps, are celebrated as an engineering marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the early 20th century, these lines were crucial for regional economic development and tourism, connecting isolated alpine settlements. The Albula line, completed in 1903, features tunnels and viaducts, while the Bernina line, completed in 1910, is noted for its steep inclines and scenic views. Travelers can explore the region via vintage steam trains, visit the Albula Railway Museum, and enjoy special travel packages like the UNESCO World Heritage Pass.

A Nigerian entrepreneur, Florida Uzoaru, is tackling the stigma surrounding sexual health in Nigeria by delivering self-testing HIV kits directly to people's homes through her health startup, Slide Safe. The kits, which also test for hepatitis B and syphilis, are designed for privacy and discretion. Despite facing negative feedback and resistance from her community, Uzoaru has successfully distributed over 700 kits and received positive responses from women who previously felt too embarrassed to seek help. She aims to make the kits even more accessible by lowering their price.

Bill Gates appeared on 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show' to play a game where he guessed the prices of everyday supermarket items, highlighting his disconnection from everyday shopping due to his wealth. Despite his struggles with most items, he accurately guessed the price of dental floss. The article compares Gates to former President George H.W. Bush, who was perceived as out of touch during a recession. It also notes Gates' and his wife Melinda's commitment to philanthropy, planning to give away more than half of their fortune.

A drama therapy program in Lebanon's Roumieh Prison, led by actress and director Zeina Daccache and the NGO Catharsis, uses theater to provide restorative justice and advocate for policy changes. The program has led to legal reforms, including reduced sentences for good behavior and new domestic violence laws. The latest production, 'Johar ... Up in the Air,' focuses on prisoners serving life sentences and mentally ill inmates, highlighting the lack of psychiatric care in Lebanese prisons. The program has given inmates a sense of humanity and hope, encouraging societal reintegration.

Logic's Grammy performance of his song '1-800-273-8255' led to a tripling of calls to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, highlighting the powerful impact of music on mental health. The song, which features Alessia Cara and Khalid, addresses themes of suicidal thoughts and the importance of seeking help. Frances Gonzalez from the Lifeline praised the performance for spreading a message of hope. Research by Dr. Madelyn Gould supports the Lifeline's effectiveness, with significant percentages of callers reporting positive outcomes after using the service.

Palestinians in Syria and Lebanon face a severe crisis as the US withholds significant funding from the United Nations Relief and Welfare Agency (UNRWA). The cuts, announced after President Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital, have left many Palestinian refugees in uncertainty. UNRWA officials warn of immediate risks to their operations, with potential disruptions to education, health services, and cash assistance. The US State Department demands reforms in the agency, while other countries have expedited their funding. The situation threatens the stability of Lebanon and the region, with fears of unrest in Palestinian camps.

Palestinians in Syria and Lebanon face a severe crisis as the US withholds significant funding from the United Nations Relief and Welfare Agency (UNRWA). The cuts, announced after President Trump recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital, have left hundreds of thousands of Palestinian refugees in uncertainty. UNRWA officials warn that the lack of funds could disrupt essential services like education and healthcare, potentially leading to unrest. The US State Department demands reforms in the agency before releasing more funds, while other countries have expedited their contributions to mitigate the shortfall.

US plans to reduce funding for UNRWA, the agency aiding Palestinian refugees, add uncertainty to the already precarious situation of Palestinians in Lebanon. Despite assurances from UNRWA officials that no immediate service reductions are planned, refugees are anxious about further cuts to health, education, and food aid programs. The potential funding cuts could lead to protests and unrest in Lebanon's Palestinian camps. Lebanese officials, including Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri, have called for increased international support to prevent the destabilization of the region. The US decision to freeze a portion of its planned contribution has been met with criticism and concerns about the broader implications for stability and security in Lebanon and beyond.

US plans to cut funding for UNRWA, the agency aiding Palestinian refugees, exacerbate the precarious situation for Palestinians in Lebanon. Despite assurances from UNRWA officials that no immediate service reductions are planned, refugees are anxious about further cuts to health, education, and food aid programs. The potential funding freeze by the US, which is the largest contributor to UNRWA's budget, could lead to protests and unrest in Lebanon's Palestinian camps. Lebanese officials warn that reduced aid could destabilize the country and increase extremism. The economic and social conditions of Palestinian refugees in Lebanon, who are heavily reliant on UNRWA, are already dire, with high unemployment and restrictions on citizenship and employment.

Father Dario Escobar, an 83-year-old Maronite monk from Colombia, has resided as a hermit in Lebanon's Qadisha Valley for 17 years, attracting tourists and locals alike. The valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has a history of providing refuge to Christians and is now part of the Lebanon Mountain Trail, which has boosted local tourism. Escobar, known for his humor and lecherous jokes, follows a strict daily routine of prayer, work, study, and sleep, and lives off his garden, although he occasionally receives provisions from nearby towns. As he ages, he acknowledges that he may eventually have to leave his hermitage for a convent, but for now, he remains a unique figure in the valley.

Father Dario Escobar, an 83-year-old Maronite monk from Colombia, has resided as a hermit in Lebanon's Qadisha Valley for 17 years, becoming a niche tourist attraction. The valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has a history of providing refuge to Christians. Escobar's daily life includes 14 hours of prayer and a vegetarian diet. His hermitage, Saydet Hawqa Monastery, attracts visitors, especially since the Lebanon Mountain Trail was established. While some seek his blessing, others are drawn by curiosity. The valley also hosts other hermits, and Escobar acknowledges that he may eventually have to leave his solitary life for a convent due to old age.

The article discusses the situation in Arsal, a town on Lebanon's northeast border, which has been heavily affected by the Syrian civil war. The town, which now has a refugee population double that of its Lebanese citizens, has faced economic hardship after local businesses like stone quarries and factories closed due to fighting between Syrian militants and the Lebanese army. Recently, the Islamist group Al Nusra Front was driven out of Arsal, raising hopes for a return to normalcy. The Lebanese militia Hezbollah, which supports the Syrian government, has been instrumental in changing the situation on the ground. The restoration of 3G networks and potential reopening of businesses are signs of improvement. However, the fate of the refugees, including their potential voluntary return to Syria, remains uncertain. The article also touches on the broader impact of the Syrian refugee crisis on Lebanon.

Thousands of Syrian rebels and civilian refugees are being transferred from Lebanon back to Syria, raising concerns about forced returns. The transfers are part of agreements negotiated by Hezbollah with various rebel groups, including Saraya Ahl Al Sham and Hayyat Tahrir Al Sham. While some view the transfers as humanitarian gestures or security measures, others, including the UN and community leaders, express deep concern over the safety and voluntariness of these returns. Lebanon, a small country with a significant refugee population, is facing political pressure to return refugees to Syria, despite the risks involved.

Anthony Scaramucci, in his brief tenure as White House Communications Director, has made headlines with his outrageous and controversial statements. In a call with journalist Ryan Lizza, Scaramucci sought to uncover a leak about a dinner involving President Trump and Fox News figures, leading to threats and disparaging remarks about White House staff, including Reince Priebus and Steve Bannon. The incident highlights the chaotic and contentious atmosphere within the Trump administration.

The article shares the personal story of Greta A., an 81-year-old German refugee from World War II, reflecting on her experiences and the ongoing challenges faced by refugees. It highlights her journey from Yugoslavia to the United States, the hardships endured, and her life in Washington, D.C. The narrative also touches on the broader context of refugee policies, including criticism of President Trump's executive order on Syrian refugees and comparisons to past political turmoil in the U.S.

Nematullah Noori, a 33-year-old Afghan refugee, shares his journey from Wardak Province, Afghanistan, to Washington, D.C., under the Special Immigrant Visa program. He recounts his experiences working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the challenges of obtaining visas, and the support received from Lutheran Social Services upon arrival. Noori expresses concerns about the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan, the role of Pakistan in supporting militant groups, and hopes for U.S. and UN intervention. He describes his new life in Washington, D.C., his children's education, and his efforts to find employment.

Noobtsaa Philip Vang, founder and CEO of Foodhini, shares his story as the son of Laotian refugees and his journey to creating a food delivery service featuring refugee chefs in Washington, D.C. His inspiration came from craving his mother's cooking and recognizing the potential in the refugee community. Foodhini began beta testing in 2015 and launched in January 2017, with a focus on creating opportunities and community connections. The service has received significant support and plans to expand beyond the D.C. area. Chef Mem, one of the chefs at Foodhini, has a rich culinary background influenced by her time in Southeast Asia and Laos.

Iran remains committed to the 2015 nuclear deal despite US President Donald Trump's threats, according to analysts. Former Iranian diplomat Seyed Hossein Mousavian and other experts believe Iran will uphold the agreement as long as the US lifts nuclear-related sanctions. The EU continues to support the deal, while the US administration reviews its position. Increased US sanctions and rigorous inspections could challenge Iran's commitment. The upcoming Iranian presidential elections and US-Saudi relations add further uncertainty to the deal's future.

The article discusses the story of a Syrian family who fled war-torn Aleppo and settled in southern Italy through a humanitarian corridors program. The program, initiated by church organizations, aims to provide a safe passage for refugees, avoiding the perilous Mediterranean crossing. The family's transition to Italian life has been challenging, particularly due to language barriers and accessing medical care. The town of Riace, where they initially settled, is known for welcoming migrants to counteract population decline and revitalize the local economy. The mayor of Riace, Domenico Lucano, has been recognized for his efforts in integrating migrants. The family later moved to Gioiosa Ionica, hoping for better integration and employment opportunities. The article also touches on broader issues such as the impact of immigration on local economies, the challenges of integration, and the varying responses of Italian communities to the influx of migrants.

Jisr az-Zarqa, an isolated all-Arab village on Israel's coast, is seeking to overcome decades of seclusion by promoting tourism. The village is uniquely positioned, bordered by a freeway, the Mediterranean, a nature preserve, and the Jewish resort town of Caesarea. Despite facing challenges such as a barrier built by Caesarea Development Corp. and a history of being viewed as collaborators by other Arabs, residents like Ahmad Juha are optimistic about Jisr's potential. Juha has opened the first backpackers' hostel in partnership with Neta Hanien, a Jewish Israeli woman, aiming to foster interaction between villagers and visitors. However, the village's tourism efforts face skepticism due to safety concerns and a decrease in visitors following the Gaza warfare. Despite these challenges, the younger generation, like 16-year-old Maisan Jarban, sees a future in Jisr and the possibility of change driven by the community itself.

Murad Subay, a Yemeni artist, uses street art to address and combat sectarian violence, drone strikes, and corruption in Yemen. His murals, created with community participation, cover the scars of conflict and call for peace. Subay's work has garnered international recognition, including the 'Art for Peace Award' from the Italian Veronesi Foundation. Despite offers of support from the United Nations, he maintains his independence, relying on local support to fuel his creative activism.

Egyptians, inspired by their recent successful protests, are showing solidarity with Wisconsin's unionized laborers who are fighting against state Republicans to maintain their collective bargaining rights. A young Egyptian man exemplifies this support, highlighting the universal nature of struggles and solidarity.