Iran frees rapper Toomaj Salehi months after death sentence overturned
Iran has released dissident rapper Toomaj Salehi more than two years after his backing of women's rights protests over Mahsa Amini's death landed him in prison.
Tehran
Iran reportedly arrests female university student who stripped in protest
Amnesty International calls on Iran to free woman said to have been "violently arrested after she removed her clothes in protest" of harassment by authorities.
Iran says it successfully launched satellite into orbit
Iran's reported satellite launch comes amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
Iran further increases stockpile of uranium near weapons-grade, U.N. says
A U.N. nuclear watchdog said Iran increased its stockpile again of uranium enriched to near weapons-grade levels, defying international demands.
Gaza cease-fire talks to continue Friday
A new round of Gaza cease-fire and hostage release talks began Thursday, with officials from Israel, Egypt, the U.S. and Qatar participating. Hamas leaders declined to attend the negotiations, which will continue into Friday. CBS News foreign correspondent Ramy Inocencio has the latest from Tel Aviv.
Iran refuses to back down on Israel threat
Iran is rejecting urgent pleas from European leaders not to attack Israel in response to the killing of a Hamas official in Tehran in July. CBS News foreign correspondent Ramy Inocencio reports. Then, retired Lt. Gen. Mark Schwartz, former U.S. security coordinator for Israel and the Palestinian Authority, joins with analysis.
Mideast tensions prompt U.S. military buildup
The U.S. is increasing its military presence in the Middle East as Israel braces for possible retaliatory attacks from Iran over the recent killings of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. The Biden administration continues to call for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Jon Alterman, senior vice president and director of the Middle East program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, joins CBS News to discuss.
U.S. boosts military presence in Middle East
The U.S. military has positioned additional resources in the Middle East ahead of an expected attack on Israel from Iran or Hezbollah militants in Lebanon. CBS News foreign correspondent Ramy Inocencio has more from Tel Aviv. Then, Chuck Freilich, former Israeli deputy national security adviser, joins to discuss.
Israel to join peace talks amid attack fears
Israel is bracing for potential retaliatory attacks from Iran and Hezbollah. At the same time, Israel is expected to participate in negotiations for a cease-fire and hostage deal later this week. CBS News foreign correspondent Debora Patta has the latest from Tel Aviv.
U.S., Egypt and Qatar urge cease-fire talks
The U.S., Egypt and Qatar released a joint statement Thursday urging Israel and Hamas to resume cease-fire talks by Aug. 15. Meanwhile, the Biden administration is warning Iran that it could face serious consequences if it launches a major attack on Israel. CBS News foreign correspondent Ramy Inocencio has more from Tel Aviv.
Israel security cabinet preps for retaliation
Israel is bracing for an anticipated retaliatory attack after the assassination of two top Hezbollah and Hamas leaders. The nation's security cabinet met Thursday evening to discuss its preparations. CBS News chief foreign affairs correspondent and "Face the Nation" moderator Margaret Brennan has more.
Israel braces for Iranian retaliation
Iran is expected to retaliate against Israel following the assassination of a senior Hamas leader in Tehran. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was facing increased criticism as protests broke out in Tel Aviv, with some saying that Netanyahu was deliberately trying to escalate the fighting in the Middle East. Debora Patta reports.
Retaliation fears after Hamas chief's death
There are growing concerns about how Iran will retaliate against Israel after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on Wednesday. CBS News' Courtney Kealy joins with analysis.
Funerals held for Hamas, Hezbollah leaders
President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke on the phone Thursday to discuss escalating tensions in the Middle East. Their talks came after funerals in Iran and Lebanon for top leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah. CBS News foreign correspondent Debora Patta has the latest.
How Mideast killings could affect stability
Iranian and Hamas officials say the militant group's political leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Tehran after attending the presidential inauguration. Both are blaming Israel for the strike. Seth Jones, director of the Center for Strategic and International Studies' International Security Program, joins CBS News to discuss how the attack is intensifying concerns of a wider conflict in the Middle East.
Ismail Haniyeh assassination: What we know
The top political leader of Hamas was assassinated in Tehran early Wednesday. The militant group and Iran blame Israel for Ismail Haniyeh's death. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied its role. CBS News foreign correspondent Debora Patta reports from East Jerusalem.
Hamas leader assassinated, Middle East on edge
Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has been killed in an airstrike in the Iranian capital of Tehran, with Hamas blaming Israel, claiming a missile hit the house he was staying in. His death came just hours after Israel announced it had killed Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in a strike on Beirut. Debora Patta reports from Jerusalem.
How U.S. is responding to Middle East unrest
Iran's supreme leader is vowing revenge against Israel after a deadly air strike in Tehran killed a Hamas political leader, fueling concerns over an all-out regional war. CBS News foreign correspondent Imtiaz Tyab reports from Beirut. Then, CBS News White House reporter Willie James Inman joins to discuss what the U.S. is saying about the unrest.
Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh assassinated
Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has been killed in Iran's capital city, Tehran, where he attended the swearing-in of Iran's new president Tuesday. Hamas announced the news early Wednesday, blaming an Israeli airstrike for the death and vowing to make Israel regret the assassination. Haniyeh's death came hours after Israel confirmed it killed a top Hezbollah commander in a suburb of Beirut, Lebanon. CBS News' Imtiaz Tyab and Ian Lee have more.
Low turnout expected in Iran's election
Iran on Friday is holding its presidential election to replace President Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash in May. But many Iranians say they will stay home instead of heading to the polls. CBS News senior foreign correspondent Elizabeth Palmer is in Tehran to help explain why.
How Iran could carry out an attack on Israel
U.S. officials say Iran is on the brink of launching an attack on Israel. Iran had promised to retaliate for a strike nearly two weeks ago that killed multiple Iranian military officers in Syria. CBS News' Weijia Jiang, Debora Patta and Margaret Brennan have the latest.
Iran holds first parliamentary election since mass protests, crackdown
Iran has held its first parliamentary election since mass 2022 protests over mandatory hijab laws after the death of Mahsa Amini, apparently drawing a low turnout amid calls for a boycott.
The aftermath of the Iranian hostage crisis
In 1979, Iranians took over the U.S. Embassy in Tehran and held 52 Americans hostage for 444 days. On this day in 1981, the standoff ended with the hostages released, but that wasn't the end of the story - or the suffering - for the victims and their families. Barry Petersen has more.
Iran locks down hospital, and its story, after girl injured on train
Iranian officials and state media say Armita Geravand, 16, fell and bumped her head, but questions abound a year after Mahsa Amini's death.
Iran claims it will have unrestricted access to funds in U.S. prisoner swap
Iran claims that no restrictions will be imposed on frozen assets released to Tehran, an assertion at odds with statements by U.S. officials.
Biden signs government funding bill, averting a shutdown
The stopgap measure will fund the government and provide tens of billions in disaster relief.
Death toll in attack at German Christmas market rises to 5; 200 injured
Police say the driver is under arrest after plowing into the crowd at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, killing at least five people and injuring at least 200.
Senate approves bill to expand Social Security to millions of Americans
Senators approve a bill to expand Social Security benefits to millions of Americans, with President Biden expected to sign it into law.
What we know about suspect in Christmas market attack in Germany
The suspect, identified by local media as 50-year-old Taleb A., was arrested after plowing a black BMW into a Christmas market crowded with holiday shoppers in Magdeburg, Germany, killing at least five people and wounding more than 200 others.
Biden surpasses Trump with 235th federal judge confirmed
The Senate confirmed two more judges to the federal bench on Friday, giving President Biden a total of 235 since he took office.
Here's a fact check on Trump's recent comments about the history of U.S. tariffs
Historians say Trump falsely said he was the only president to collect revenue from tariffs on Chinese goods, among other claims.
What to know about the winter solstice, 2024's shortest day
The 2024 winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, happens on Saturday, Dec. 21, and is marked with traditions and celebrations around the world.
10 dead after stampede at a Christmas charity event in Nigeria
The stampede occurred in the early morning at a church in Nigeria, prompting evacuations at the church.
Rocket from Yemen strikes Tel Aviv, injuring 16 people
Inside Gaza, mourners held funerals for 19 people, 12 of them children, killed in Israeli strikes.
U.S.
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An owl came down a chimney and perched on a Christmas tree: See the video
A Virginia family had an unexpected visitor come down their chimney this week.
Pope Francis tells Vatican staff to stop gossiping in Christmas speech
Pope Francis has told Vatican bureaucrats to stop speaking ill of one another, calling gossip "an evil that destroys social life."
Senate approves bill to expand Social Security to millions of Americans
Senators approve a bill to expand Social Security benefits to millions of Americans, with President Biden expected to sign it into law.
What to know about the winter solstice, 2024's shortest day
The 2024 winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, happens on Saturday, Dec. 21, and is marked with traditions and celebrations around the world.
How much more will it cost to heat your home this winter?
Here's what's driving up home heating costs, and how much families are expected to spend this winter.
MoneyWatch
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Senate approves bill to expand Social Security to millions of Americans
Senators approve a bill to expand Social Security benefits to millions of Americans, with President Biden expected to sign it into law.
How much more will it cost to heat your home this winter?
Here's what's driving up home heating costs, and how much families are expected to spend this winter.
IRS sending up to $1,400 to 1 million people. Here's who qualifies.
The IRS said it's sending out checks worth up to $1,400 to 1 million people. Here's what to know about the "special payments."
Feds sue Zelle, alleging nation's biggest banks failed to stop fraud
Government watchdog claims Americans lost hundreds of millions to fraud related to the bank-operated mobile payments network.
What would a government shutdown mean for flights and air travel?
Here's what the anticipated record number of holiday travelers should know about how a government shutdown could affect trips.
Politics
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Biden surpasses Trump with 235th federal judge confirmed
The Senate confirmed two more judges to the federal bench on Friday, giving President Biden a total of 235 since he took office.
Here's a fact check on Trump's recent comments about the history of U.S. tariffs
Historians say Trump falsely said he was the only president to collect revenue from tariffs on Chinese goods, among other claims.
Feds sue Zelle, alleging nation's biggest banks failed to stop fraud
Government watchdog claims Americans lost hundreds of millions to fraud related to the bank-operated mobile payments network.
Mayorkas warns of "serious" consequences for Homeland Security if government shuts down
The warning came before the House passed a last-minute stopgap funding bill with bipartisan support Friday night, sending it to the Senate.
Biden issues likely last round of student debt forgiveness before leaving office
The Biden administration is canceling federal student loans for another 55,000 workers to the tune of $4.28 billion in what's expected to be the last such round before he leaves office.
HealthWatch
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A teen's misdiagnosis led to medication, but surgery led to a cure
Isaac Klapper was 10 years old when he started having episodes of what doctors initially thought was a movement disorder.
Why fish, birds and other animals yawn too, according to an expert
Humans aren't alone when it comes to yawning — all vertebrates do it. But why? An expert explains the likely reason behind this "evolutionarily ancient" act.
Stuffing stockings with skincare? Here's what kids should and shouldn't be using
Skin care is all the rage for teens and tweens these days, but be careful not to give products that could cause more harm than good.
He went in for a colonoscopy. The hospital charged $19,000 for two.
A Chicago man was stuck with a big medical bill after undergoing a colonoscopy that found no evidence of cancer. Here's why.
Frito-Lay recalls some Lay's chips over "life-threatening" allergy risk
Some 13 oz. bags of Lay's Classic Potato Chips may contain an undeclared allergen, according to the snack company.
World
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Pope Francis tells Vatican staff to stop gossiping in Christmas speech
Pope Francis has told Vatican bureaucrats to stop speaking ill of one another, calling gossip "an evil that destroys social life."
At least 37 dead after crash between a passenger bus and a truck in Brazil
In 2024, more than 10,000 people died in traffic accidents in Brazil, according to the Ministry of Transportation.
Rocket from Yemen strikes Tel Aviv, injuring 16 people
Inside Gaza, mourners held funerals for 19 people, 12 of them children, killed in Israeli strikes.
What we know about suspect in Christmas market attack in Germany
The suspect, identified by local media as 50-year-old Taleb A., was arrested after plowing a black BMW into a Christmas market crowded with holiday shoppers in Magdeburg, Germany, killing at least five people and wounding more than 200 others.
10 dead after stampede at a Christmas charity event in Nigeria
The stampede occurred in the early morning at a church in Nigeria, prompting evacuations at the church.
Entertainment
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Young dancers take on lead roles in Christmas classic "The Nutcracker"
The New York City Ballet has been performing "The Nutcracker" for decades. Each year, young dancers make their mark on the ballet.
How Robert Eggers revives "Nosferatu"
Director Robert Eggers' highly-anticipated horror film "Nosferatu" will hit theaters on Christmas Day. The acclaimed director sat down with CBS Saturday Morning to talk about bringing the classic vampire tale to a new audience.
The man behind method acting
50 years ago, "The Godfather Part II" was playing in theaters nationwide. The film catapulted Lee Strasberg, whose namesake form of acting preparation was used by some of the film's leads, to stardom. Dozens of the entertainment industry's biggest stars have trained at his institute, learning the techniques of method acting. Michelle Miller went behind the scenes to learn more about "The Method Man."
The young dancers behind a holiday classic
The New York City Ballet's production of "The Nutcracker" began in 1954 and has remained one of the most enduring shows at Lincoln Center. Two young dancers taking the stage this year opened up about living their dream and keeping a holiday classic alive.
The untold WWII story of "Six Triple Eight"
Tyler Perry and Kerry Washington team up on the film "Six Triple Eight," spotlighting the only all-Black women's battalion in Europe during WWII. Washington stars as Charity Adams, the highest-ranking Black female officer.
Technology
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Technology
Supreme Court agrees to hear case about TikTok ban
The Supreme Court said Wednesday it will hear an appeal from TikTok over a federal law that would ban the social media giant if it is not sold by its Chinese parent company. Jan Crawford has more.
Teen victim of deepfake porn urges Congress to pass "Take It Down Act"
Elliston Berry's life was turned upside down after a photo she posted on Instagram was digitally altered online to be pornographic.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Supreme Court to decide on future of TikTok
The Supreme Court plans to hear arguments in January on a challenge to a new law that could lead to the popular social media app TikTok being banned in the U.S. The Biden administration and lawmakers say the Chinese government's ability to collect data from TikTok poses a significant national security risk, while the app and its Chinese parent company ByteDance argue that the law is unconstitutional. CBS News Supreme Court producer Catherine Cole has more.
FAA: Lithium battery fires on flights now occur nearly twice a week
FAA data shows that lithium battery fires on U.S. flights have risen 388% since 2015, now occurring nearly twice a week.
Science
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What to know about the winter solstice, 2024's shortest day
The 2024 winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, happens on Saturday, Dec. 21, and is marked with traditions and celebrations around the world.
Class-action lawsuit over plastic recycling
This week a group of plaintiffs in Missouri, Kansas, California and Florida filed a class-action lawsuit against dozens of companies and organizations, claiming they've falsely promoted how easy it is to recycle plastics. CBS News Los Angeles climatologist Marina Jurica has the details.
Why fish, birds and other animals yawn too, according to an expert
Humans aren't alone when it comes to yawning — all vertebrates do it. But why? An expert explains the likely reason behind this "evolutionarily ancient" act.
Americans coexisted with 4-ton sloths for millennia, research shows
Early Americans may have spent millennia sharing prehistoric savannas and wetlands with enormous beasts, research shows.
EPA tackling pollution in at-risk communities
The Environmental Protection Agency under President Biden created a new Office of Environmental Justice that seeks to address pollution levels in disadvantaged and marginalized communities. However, there is concern that the incoming Trump administration could do away with the new department. David Schechter reports.
Crime
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Crime
CEO killing sparks concerns about extremism
Luigi Mangione, now held in a New York City lock-up, could face the death penalty if convicted of the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The killing is sparking new concerns about violent extremism bubbling across the country.
Dozens injured in Germany Christmas market attack
At least two people are dead and dozens more injured after a vehicle plowed into a crowd at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. Authorities say the driver of the car was arrested and that it appears to be a deliberate attack. Elaine Cobbe has details.
German Christmas market attack update
At least two people were killed and over 60 were injured after a car crashed into a Christmas market in eastern Germany. Authorities arrested a suspect, saying they believe he acted alone in the deliberate act. CBS News national security contributor Sam Vinograd has more details.
Toddler killed in German market attack, police say
At least two people, including a toddler, were killed, and at least 60 more hurt, after a car crashed into a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, in what authorities said appeared to be a deliberate attack. German police said a Saudi man has been arrested, but a motive has not yet been determined. CBS News reporter Anna Noryskiewicz has more.
Details on suspect in crash at German market
More than 60 people were injured and at least two killed Friday after a driver rammed into a crowded Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. The driver is in custody and local government officials say they suspect the crash was deliberate. CBS News reporter Haley Ott has the latest details.
Space
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Discovery of "tipped over" black hole surprises NASA scientists
New analysis techniques and decades-old research helped NASA scientists identify an unusual black hole in a distant galaxy.
Why are the Boeing Starliner astronauts stuck in space?
Here's why NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore are stuck, but not stranded, at the International Space Station after launching into space in June.
NASA delayes return date for astronauts
NASA has delayed the return date for Boeing's Starliner astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. CBS News' Manuel Bojorquez reports on the decision to keep the two in space.
NASA leader weighs in on Elon Musk, SpaceX and plans for moon rocket
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson says he's optimistic the Trump administration will support the space agency's agenda.
Boeing Starliner crew's return delayed again
Two astronauts who have been stuck in space since June will have to wait until at least the end of March to come home after NASA on Wednesday again pushed back their return date. Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer for the Franklin Institute, joined CBS News to discuss what's causing the delays.
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Notable Deaths in 2024
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
The Scott Peterson case: New evidence?
Peterson's death sentence for the murder of his pregnant wife Laci has been overturned. Now his supporters are pushing for a complete retrial.
The troubled marriage of Ashley and Doug Benefield
The seesaw marriage between the former ballerina and her much older husband only lasted four years, until she shot him on Sept. 27, 2020.
Texas couple investigates teen daughter's unusual death
Cayley Mandadi's mother and stepfather go to extreme lengths to prove her death was no accident.
Summer music heats up 2024
Live performances are in full swing this summer. Scroll through our concert gallery, featuring pictures by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Latest CBS News Videos
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The Dish: Rick Bayless
Chicago-based chef Rick Bayless has spent decades traveling to Mexico, bringing the flavors and traditions back to the United States. He's written nine cookbooks and hosted a PBS cooking show, while his restaurants have earned culinary honors, including Michelin stars. Now, on a special holiday edition of the Dish, Bayless opens up about his annual tradition of spending Christmas in Mexico.
Ben Folds performs "We Could Have This"
Legendary singer-songwriter Ben Folds rose to fame with his band, "Ben Folds Five," before launching a solo career in the early 200s. Since then, he's recorded multiple studio albums and established himself as one of the most ambitious and versatile performers of his generation. This past October, he released his first Christmas collection, "Sleigher," featuring a mix of original songs and reimagined classics. Now from "Sleigher," here is Ben Folds with "We Could Have This."
Ben Folds performs "The Christmas Song"
Legendary singer-songwriter Ben Folds rose to fame with his band, "Ben Folds Five," before launching a solo career in the early 200s. Since then, he's recorded multiple studio albums and established himself as one of the most ambitious and versatile performers of his generation. This past October, he released his first Christmas collection, "Sleigher," featuring a mix of original songs and reimagined classics. Now from "Sleigher," here is Ben Folds with "The Christmas Song."
Ben Folds performs "Me And Maurice"
Legendary singer-songwriter Ben Folds rose to fame with his band, "Ben Folds Five," before launching a solo career in the early 200s. Since then, he's recorded multiple studio albums and established himself as one of the most ambitious and versatile performers of his generation. This past October, he released his first Christmas collection, "Sleigher," featuring a mix of original songs and reimagined classics. Now from "Sleigher," here is Ben Folds with "Me And Maurice."
How Robert Eggers revives "Nosferatu"
Director Robert Eggers' highly-anticipated horror film "Nosferatu" will hit theaters on Christmas Day. The acclaimed director sat down with CBS Saturday Morning to talk about bringing the classic vampire tale to a new audience.