Heard It First – Daily Digest

December 18, 2025

Political Unrest in Bangladesh

Violence erupted in Bangladesh following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a key youth leader in the movement that led to the ousting of former prime minister Sheik Hasina. The unrest highlights ongoing political tensions in the country. The situation remains fluid, and the impact of Hadi’s death on the wider political landscape is yet to unfold.

US Plane Crash Claims Lives of Former NASCAR Driver and Family

A tragic small plane crash at a regional airport in North Carolina resulted in the deaths of seven people, including former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife, and two children. Officials confirmed they were among those aboard the aircraft. The incident has raised concerns about aviation safety for small private planes, and investigations are ongoing.

Changes in US Cannabis Policy and Romanian Legal Actions

In a significant shift in US drug policy, former President Trump signed an order reclassifying cannabis to the same category as Tylenol with codeine. This move represents the most notable change since 1971 and could reshape drug regulation and enforcement in the United States.

Meanwhile, in Romania, rapper Wiz Khalifa received a nine-month jail sentence in absentia after admitting to smoking cannabis on stage at a festival last year. This sentence underscores differing international approaches to cannabis use and enforcement.

Leadership Change in the New York Archdiocese

Pope Leo has appointed Ronald Hicks, 58, from Chicago, as the new archbishop of New York. He will succeed Cardinal Timothy Dolan and lead the spiritual care of around 2.5 million Catholics in the state. This leadership transition is significant for the Catholic community in New York, with Hicks set to begin his new role soon.

Responses to Hate Speech and Public Safety in Australia

Following a shooting incident in Bondi, the Australian Prime Minister announced a crackdown on hate speech. New measures include enhanced penalties for spreading hate and additional powers to cancel or refuse visas for offenders. These actions aim to improve public safety and counter hate-driven violence amid growing concerns about social tensions.

Other Notable News

- French medical professional Frédéric Péchier was sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of poisoning patients by contaminating infusion bags, causing cardiac arrests or hemorrhaging. - Democrats have released a new batch of materials related to Jeffrey Epstein, including photos of women’s passports and disturbing quotations, as Justice Department deadlines approach. - Kristin Cabot, an HR executive, spoke out after receiving abusive and threatening messages following viral footage of her appearing on a 'kiss-cam' with her boss. - Trump Media announced a $6 billion deal to merge with a fusion energy firm, marking a surprising expansion from social media into the energy sector.


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