A Tense Christmas Eve 2025: Global Unrest Simmers from Gaza to Caracas

While carols of peace echo in some parts of the world, a different sound is ringing out elsewhere. On this Christmas Eve of 2025, a series of conflicts and protests paint a starkly different picture, revealing a world grappling with division as the year comes to a close.

'We Will Never Leave Gaza': A Hardline Stance

In a direct video statement, Israel's Defence Minister declared, “We will never leave Gaza.” This assertion signals a clear intent for long-term military involvement in the territory, complicating international discussions about the region's future and casting further doubt on prospects for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.

Prayers for Peace from Africa to Asia

Meanwhile, the human cost of conflict is palpable in Sudan, where people in a displacement shelter say they 'pray for peace.' Their pleas are a solemn reminder of the forgotten crises simmering across the globe. Elsewhere, a summit of Sahel states reportedly attracted young people as unexpected visitors, eager to have their voices heard. In Asia, Cambodia's economy is reportedly being squeezed by conflict with neighboring Thailand.

Political Rifts on Full Display

Political and ideological divisions are also visible worldwide. In Caracas, Venezuela, motorcyclists took to the streets to protest former U.S. President Donald Trump. In London, Hindutva protesters gathered at the Bangladesh High Commission following reports of a lynching. Even Christmas shopping isn't immune, as reports show Trump merchandise competing for shoppers' attention, highlighting how deep political polarization runs in daily life.