Love is sweet, and so is Chocolate Day! Celebrated on February 9 every year, Chocolate Day is the third day of Valentine’s Week, offering a delightful break from the seriousness of romantic proposals or heartfelt gestures. It’s a day where we indulge in the sweetest of treats, primarily chocolates, to express affection, friendship, and of course, a love for all things sugary! In this article, let us know more about Chocolate Day 2025, its date, history, significance and other details that make this day so special during Valentine Week.
Chocolate Day 2025 Date
Chocolate Day 2025 falls on February 9, right after Propose Day, making it the perfect mid-week pause in Valentine’s Week. It’s the day when giving and receiving chocolate is not only acceptable but encouraged. Whether it’s a simple chocolate bar, a box of truffles, or a decadent chocolate cake, this day is all about spreading sweetness and joy to those you care about. Valentine Week 2025 Calendar With Full Dates: Rose Day, Chocolate Day, Valentine’s Day and More, Here’s the Date Sheet To Celebrate the Week of Love.
Chocolate Day History
The origins of Chocolate Day are somewhat elusive, but it’s widely believed to have been inspired by the growing popularity of Valentine’s Week celebrations in the 20th century. With the rise of Valentine’s Day traditions around the world, there was a natural connection between chocolate and love. After all, chocolate has long been considered a symbol of affection, desire, and indulgence.
In ancient civilisations, the cacao bean (the main ingredient in chocolate) was revered for its rich flavor and even its supposed aphrodisiac properties. The Mayans and Aztecs used cacao in ceremonial drinks and believed it had divine powers. Fast forward to modern times, and chocolates have become the go-to gift for showing love and appreciation, especially around Valentine’s Day.
Chocolate Day Significance
Chocolate Day isn’t just about eating chocolate (although that’s certainly a huge part of it!). It carries a deeper significance, symbolising love, care, and the sharing of happiness. Giving chocolate has long been associated with expressing emotions—whether it’s romantic love, friendship, or gratitude. The act of gifting chocolate is seen as an offering of sweetness, kindness, and the joy of sharing something that brings pleasure.
Chocolate Day is a fun, indulgent, and heartwarming celebration that adds a little extra sweetness to Valentine’s Week. Whether you’re in a relationship, enjoying the company of friends, or treating yourself, this day is a reminder of the simple joys that bring us together. It’s a time to enjoy chocolate, share it with those you care about, and celebrate love in all its delightful forms. So, on February 9th, don’t forget to indulge in your favorite chocolate—because after all, life is sweeter with a little chocolate!
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 09, 2025 11:18 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Mother’s Day in Norway, also popularly known as Morsdag, is celebrated on the second Sunday of February each year. In 2025, Mother’s Day in Norway falls on Sunday, February 9. According to records, the earliest Mother’s Day could be traced to ancient Greece, where Greeks held festivities to honour Rhea, who was renowned as the mother of the gods. This annual event aims to honour, celebrate and appreciate mothers with gifts, flowers, and family gatherings. Many people mark the occasion by making their moms feel special by doing something their mothers love, gifting homemade cards, and organising small celebrations.
The celebration of Mother’s Day in Norway dates back to the early 20th century, with the first observance recorded in 1919. Many mothers make significant personal and professional sacrifices for the well-being of their children and families and hence this day serves as a reminder to appreciate these efforts. In this article, let’s know more about Mother’s Day 2025 date in Norway and the significance of this special day. February 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: Get Full List of Major Events in the Second Month of the Year.
Mother’s Day In Norway 2025 Date
Mother’s Day 2025 in Norway falls on Sunday, February 9.
Mother’s Day In Norway History
The first Mother’s Day in Norway was marked on February 9, 1919. This day was celebrated in a Methodist Church in Bergen. Later two women — Karen Platou, a businesswoman and politician, and Dorothea Schjodager, a social worker, teacher, and women’s rights activist — established the day as an annual holiday in Norway. The idea of these women of celebrating and honouring mothers on Mother’s Day subsequently became a national observance.
Mother’s Day In Norway Significance
Mothers are often the first caregivers, offering love, support, and guidance throughout life. This day is a chance to express gratitude for their selfless devotion. Mother’s Day in Norway is important because it provides an opportunity to appreciate and honour the love, sacrifices, and dedication of mothers and mother figures. The annual event was initially introduced by religious organizations and later embraced by the wider public.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 09, 2025 10:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
After the charm of Rose Day on February 7, Valentine’s Week continues with the second day, Propose Day, celebrated on February 8. This special day offers a unique opportunity for people to express their deepest feelings and take their relationships to the next level by proposing to their loved ones. Whether you’re confessing your love for the first time or reaffirming your commitment, Propose Day sets the stage for unforgettable moments of connection and emotion. In this article, find out Propose Day 2025 date, history and significance to celebrate the perfect moment to express your love on Valentine Week.
Propose Day 2025 Date
Propose Day 2025 takes place on February 8, right after Rose Day, making it the second day in the celebration of Valentine’s Week. While Rose Day focuses on giving roses to convey affection, Propose Day brings an even more significant gesture—offering an opportunity to express love in a more personal and serious way.
Propose Day History
The tradition of Propose Day is relatively new compared to other days in Valentine’s Week. While Valentine’s Day itself has roots in ancient history, the modern concept of Valentine’s Week, including Rose Day and Propose Day, has evolved over time, especially in countries where these celebrations gained popularity in the 20th century. The idea behind Propose Day was likely inspired by the desire to give people an organized time during the year to express their romantic intentions and officially propose to someone they care about. Valentine Week 2025 Date Sheet: Check Full List of Love Week Till Valentine’s Day To Embrace and Celebrate Love.
Propose Day Significance
Propose Day is more than just an opportunity to pop the question or confess feelings for the first time. It holds significant emotional value, giving individuals the chance to take a step toward deepening their relationship. For some, it’s the day they declare their love for the first time, while for others, it might be an important milestone—like proposing marriage to a longtime partner.
The day is symbolic of commitment, bravery, and vulnerability. Proposing is a deeply personal act, one that often takes courage and heartfelt emotion. Whether it’s a grand gesture with flowers, gifts, and a carefully planned speech, or a quiet, intimate moment shared between two people, Propose Day encourages individuals to open up their hearts and express the feelings they may have kept hidden.
The significance of Propose Day also extends beyond romantic love. While it’s primarily associated with proposals between couples, it’s also a day when people can express admiration and affection in various forms. Some might use this day to propose new beginnings or take their existing relationship to the next stage, while others may choose to propose appreciation or thanks to friends or family members.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 08, 2025 10:48 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Opera Day is an annual event that is celebrated across the United States of America (USA) on February 8 with great enthusiasm. The annual event in the US aims to honour the rich history, artistry, and impact of opera in different cultures. This day serves as a great opportunity for opera lovers to appreciate legendary performances, composers, and singers who have contributed to this grand musical tradition. Opera Day 2025 falls on Saturday, February 8 and on this day, people enjoy classic operas like La Traviata, Carmen, or The Magic Flute and explore the works of Verdi, Mozart, Puccini, Wagner, and others. February 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: Get Full List of Major Events in the Second Month of the Year.
For those who are wondering what Opera is, it is a key part of Western classical music, and Italian tradition in particular. Opera is a form of Western theatre in which music is a fundamental component and dramatic roles are taken by singers. The performance is typically given in an opera house, accompanied by an orchestra or smaller musical ensemble, which since the early 19th century has been led by a conductor.
Opera Day 2025 Date
Opera Day 2025 falls on Saturday, February 8.
Opera Day Significance
Opera is an important art form that combines music, drama, and visual spectacle to create a powerful storytelling experience. Hence, this annual event of Opera Day in the US brings together all the opera lovers to share their love for the art form. Opera has a rich history dating back to the late 16th century, with works from composers like Mozart, Verdi, and Wagner shaping Western classical music. This form of art has the power to bring together music, poetry, acting, dance, and elaborate stage design, making it a unique and immersive experience.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 08, 2025 08:45 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Global Movie Day is an annual event celebrated across the United States of America (USA) on the second Saturday of February each year. This day is celebrated in February every year to coincide with the Oscar season. This year, Global Movie Day 2025 falls on Saturday, February 8. The annual event was established by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) in 2020 to honour the impact of movies on culture, storytelling, and entertainment worldwide. This is a perfect day for movie lovers to bring out their love for movies and watch and appreciate films from all genres and eras. February 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: Get Full List of Major Events in the Second Month of the Year.
Many people celebrate by hosting watch parties, sharing their favourite films on social media, or revisiting classic cinema. This annual event is a day for film fans around the world to celebrate their favourite movies and engage with Academy members and filmmakers across social media. In this article, let’s know more about Global Movie Day 2025 date and the significance of the annual event. Oscars 2025: Robert Downey Jr, Emma Stone and More Set To Present at the Prestigious Ceremony.
Global Movie Day 2025 Date
Global Movie Day 2025 falls on Saturday, February 8.
Global Movie Day Significance
Global Movie Day offers people an opportunity to celebrate movies and catch up on the latest movie releases and have a joyous time. Celebrated during the Oscar season, this day is perfect for movie buffs to come together and share their love for movies. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) promotes the day globally. On this day, people discuss movies that inspire them, rewatch their favourite movies, classic movies, or new releases with friends and family and have a memorable time!
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 08, 2025 07:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) chief Elon Musk’s efforts to clean up waste and fraud in the federal government will soon shift its focus to the Social Security Administration (SSA) in a move likely to create a firestorm with Democrats similar to reactions to the recent measures taken against the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
The SSA, created by the Social Security Act under President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1935 and tasked with establishing a federal benefits system for older Americans, will soon become a focus of DOGE, according to a report from Semafor that was not denied by the White House when contacted by Fox News Digital.
While several Democrats — including Rep. Dan Goldman, D-N.Y., in a post on X — have been quick to accuse this move as being aimed at slashing Social Security benefits for the elderly, several areas with potential waste exist in the agency that don’t involve cutting current benefits.
Just Facts, a nonprofit research institute, previously reported that the agency disbursed roughly $2 billion in fraudulent or improper payments in 2022, which it calculated was enough “to pay 89,947 retired workers the average annual old-age benefit of $21,924 for 2023.”
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Elon Musk’s DOGE efforts are set to focus on Social Security.(Getty Images)
Just Facts explained that through a policy known as “administrative finality,” once the “SSA mistakenly overpays a beneficiary for more than four years, it does not recover past overpayments and deliberately continues to make future overpayments excepting cases of fraud.”
The SSA sent roughly 7,000 federal employees disability benefits in 2008 while they were still taking wages from federal jobs, according to a 2010 report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO).
The GAO estimated that about 1,500 of those individuals “may have improperly received benefits” since their wages went beyond maximum income thresholds. The GAO investigation also found that over 71,000 “stimulus checks” were sent by the Obama administration to people who were deceased, including 63,481 people whose deaths had been previously reported to the agency.
MEET THE YOUNG TEAM OF SOFTWARE ENGINEERS SLASHING GOVERNMENT WASTE AT DOGE: REPORT
Musk’s team has moved to slash USAID’s $40 billion spending budget.(Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
“Social Security will not be touched, it will only be strengthened,” President Donald Trump said during a press conference on Friday. “We have illegal immigrants on Social Security and we’re going to find out who they are and take them out.”
Trump added, “We’re going to strengthen our Social Security, etc. We’re not going to touch it other than to make it stronger. But we have people that shouldn’t be on, and those people we have to weed out, most of them, or many of them, so far, have been illegal immigrants.”
On Friday afternoon, White House Principal Deputy Communications Director Alex Pfeiffer posted a report on X from the Center for Immigration Studies in 2021 that said, “We estimate that there are 2.65 million illegal immigrants with Social Security numbers.”
Trump added that DOGE will go through “everything” when it comes to waste and fraud in the federal government.
In a statement to Fox News Digital, a spokesperson for the SSA said, “We remain focused and vigilant on the integrity of our programs and take seriously our responsibilities to deter fraud, waste, and abuse.”
The Social Security Administration was created by the Social Security Act under President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1935.(Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
DOGE has dominated news headlines over the past week as Musk’s team has moved to slash USAID’s $40 billion spending budget and put on leave the vast majority of its employees, as photos of the sign at the door of the agency’s Washington, D.C., headquarters being taken down have circulated on social media.
Musk has said that both he and Trump “agreed” that the agency should be “shut down.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who has been named acting director of the independent agency, on Monday echoed the sentiment, telling reporters, “USAID is not functioning.”
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“It needs to be aligned with the national interest of the U.S. They’re not a global charity, these are taxpayer dollars. People are asking simple questions. What are they doing with the money?” Rubio continued. “We are spending taxpayers’ money. We owe the taxpayers assurances that it furthers our national interest.”
Democrats held a rally outside the Treasury Department earlier this week blasting the DOGE efforts as a threat to democracy.
“Elon Musk is a Nazi nepo baby, a godless lawless billionaire, who no one elected,” Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass., said at a rally, sparking pushback from conservatives on social media.
“Elon, this is the American people. This is not your trashy Cybertruck that you can just dismantle, pick apart, and sell the pieces of.”
Fox News Digital’s Stephen Sorace contributed to this report.
Andrew Mark Miller is a reporter at Fox News. Find him on Twitter @andymarkmiller and email tips to [email protected].
A Chinese team has unveiled a groundbreaking quadruped robot that is pushing the boundaries of robotics and speed.
The Black Panther 2.0, developed by Zhejiang University’s humanoid innovation institute in collaboration with the Hangzhou-based startup Mirror Me, has achieved a remarkable feat by running approximately 100 meters in under 10 seconds.
Black Panther 2.0 sprinting against a human (Mirror Me)
Nature-inspired engineering
The design of the Black Panther 2.0 draws inspiration from various animals, resulting in a highly efficient biomechanical structure. Its carbon-fiber shins are modeled after jerboa desert rodents, increasing stiffness by an impressive 135% while only adding 16% to its weight.
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The robot features spring-loaded knee joints that act as shock absorbers, mimicking the powerful movements of black panthers. Additionally, its “running shoes,” inspired by cheetah claws, enhance grip performance by an astonishing 200%. Standing at 2 feet and 0.8 inches tall and weighing 83.8 pounds, this robot achieves a peak stride frequency of five times per second.
Black Panther 2.0.(Mirror Me)
CHINESE TECH FIRM SHARES ROBOT TRAINING SECRETS WITH THE WORLD
Intelligent movement and adaptation
The impressive performance of the Black Panther 2.0 is not solely due to its hardware; it also incorporates artificial intelligence and machine learning to adapt its gait in real time for specific situations. This technology allows the robot to coordinate its limb movements using the concept of Huygens’ coupled pendulum principle, enabling it to maintain fluid motion on various terrains and pushing it closer to the agility of living organisms.
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Black Panther 2.0.(Mirror Me)
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Breaking speed records
In addition to breaking records, the Black Panther 2.0 has joined the prestigious “10-second club” for the 100-meter sprint, surpassing the previous record holder, HOUND, which was developed at Korea’s Advanced Institute of Science and Technology. This achievement positions the robotic dog ahead of most human sprinters, although it still trails behind some of nature’s fastest runners, like cheetahs, ostriches and wildebeests.
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Black Panther 2.0.(Mirror Me)
NO TENNIS PARTNER? NO WORRIES WITH THIS AI ROBOT
Kurt’s key takeaways
The development of the Black Panther 2.0 opens up exciting possibilities for the future of robotics. Its high-power-density motor drivers suggest potential industrial applications, while its design invites further exploration into the differences between robotic and biological mobility. This technology could also be utilized in search and rescue operations or for exploring hazardous environments.
Would you feel comfortable having a robot like the Black Panther 2.0 working alongside you, or would its advanced capabilities make you nervous about potential job displacement or safety concerns? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact
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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.
With the arrival of February, love is in the air, and what better way to begin Valentine’s Week than with Rose Day? Celebrated on February 7th, Rose Day marks the start of a week dedicated to love, romance, and heartfelt gestures. Whether it’s a single red rose exchanged between lovers or a vibrant bouquet gifted to a friend, each rose colour carries a distinct message, adding a deeper meaning to this special day.
Let’s explore the history, significance, and the symbolism behind different rose colors, helping you express the right emotions through this timeless flower.
The History of Rose Day
The tradition of using roses as a symbol of love dates back to ancient civilizations. In Roman mythology, roses were linked to Venus, the goddess of love, as they were believed to be sacred to her. Similarly, in Greek mythology, Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty and love, was often depicted with roses, earning the flower a divine status in matters of romance.
During the Victorian era, the concept of floriography—the language of flowers—gained popularity. People would send roses to communicate emotions that words couldn’t express. Over time, the practice evolved into a modern-day tradition, leading to the celebration of Rose Day as a way to initiate romantic gestures before Valentine’s Day.
Roses are also historically linked to Asian cultures, particularly China and India, where they symbolize prosperity, beauty, and devotion. The universal appeal of roses has made them an enduring representation of love across different cultures.
The Significance of Rose Day
Rose Day is more than just an occasion to exchange flowers. It serves as a meaningful expression of love and appreciation, allowing individuals to honor their relationships, whether romantic, friendly, or familial. The act of giving a rose on this day strengthens bonds and conveys emotions in the most delicate yet profound way.
From couples celebrating their love to friends cherishing their bond, Rose Day sets the tone for Valentine’s Week, encouraging people to celebrate connections in a heartfelt manner. Whether it’s a single rose or a lavish bouquet, the gesture remains a symbol of affection and warmth.
Meaning of Different Rose Colours
Each rose color holds a special meaning, making it essential to choose the right one to express your emotions correctly:
•Red Rose – Represents deep love and passion, conveying the message “I love you.”
•Purple Rose – Symbolizes enchantment and love at first sight.
•Pink Rose – Represents grace, admiration, and appreciation.
•Orange Rose – Conveys enthusiasm, excitement, and energy.
•White Rose – Symbolises innocence, purity, and new beginnings.
•Yellow Rose – Represents friendship and joy, making it ideal for platonic relationships.
Final Thoughts
As Rose Day 2025 approaches, take the time to select the perfect rose to express your emotions. Whether you’re confessing love, showing admiration, or strengthening friendships, a simple rose can make someone’s day special.
So, celebrate this beautiful occasion by spreading love, warmth, and joy—one rose at a time!
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In an audacious move that stunned the world, President Donald Trump unveiled a proposal to relocate 1.8 million Palestinians from Gaza, seeking to rebuild their lives in new places. Addressing the media alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, Trump outlined his ambitious vision for the Gaza Strip.
“I strongly believe that the Gaza Strip, which has been a symbol of death and destruction … for so many decades—devastating for the people living there and for those anywhere near it—should not go through another cycle of rebuilding and occupation by the same people who have fought, lived, died, and suffered in that place.”
The president emphasized the importance of learning from history. “History, you know, just can’t keep repeating itself,” Trump remarked, urging a departure from the failed approaches of the past.
‘LEVEL IT’: TRUMP SAYS US WILL ‘TAKE OVER’ GAZA STRIP, REBUILD IT TO STABILIZE MIDDLE EAST
President Donald Trump, right, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu answer questions during a joint press conference in the East Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 4, 2025.( REUTERS/Leah Millis)
“Dating back nearly 4,000 years, since the time of the Patriarchs Abraham & Isaac, to the time of the mighty Biblical Judge Samson and the Philistines; from the rule of Solomon and the kings of the Davidic Dynasty, and for millenia onward; the territory of modern-day Gaza has been a place of both conflict and hope, trading hands from one ruler to another, with the potential for prosperity just over the horizon, but aside from brief periods, peace for her inhabitants and neighbors remained elusive,” Ze’ev Orenstein, the director of international affairs for the City of David Foundation in Jerusalem, told Fox News Digital
The history of Gaza that Trump was referring to is both a long and tumultuous one.
Biblical Roots: A Battleground for Civilizations
Gaza’s history dates back nearly 4,000 years, frequently appearing in biblical narratives. It was one of the five key cities of the Philistines, who arrived from the Aegean, known for their clashes with the Israelites. The story of Samson, who tore down a Philistine temple, is one of the earliest recorded tales of destruction and rebuilding in Gaza. Over centuries, it was conquered by the Egyptians, Babylonians and Persians, each bringing new rulers and forcing population shifts. Even then, Gaza was a land where people came and went, often not by choice.
Ottoman Rule: A Strategic Military Outpost
Under the Ottoman Empire (1517–1917), Gaza was a military stronghold. The Ottomans used it as a buffer zone, and while some periods saw growth, it was frequently abandoned during wars. In 1799, Napoleon’s forces briefly occupied it before retreating. Once again, Gaza was left in ruins, and its population had to start over.
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A view of destroyed buildings caused by Israeli attacks comes to surface following the withdrawal of the Israeli army in Khan Yunis, Gaza, on Sept. 29, 2024.(Abed Rahim Khatib/Anadolu via Getty Images)
The British Mandate and the First Exodus
When the British took control in 1917, Gaza became part of the British Mandate for Palestine. Tensions between Jews and Arabs escalated, leading to violent clashes. By 1948, when Israel declared independence, thousands of Palestinian refugees fled to Gaza, turning it into an overcrowded enclave under Egyptian rule.
Egyptian Rule: No Citizenship, No Stability
From 1949 to 1967, Egypt controlled Gaza but never integrated it. Palestinians living there were not granted Egyptian citizenship, and Gaza remained impoverished and politically unstable. When Israel captured it in the Six-Day War, the cycle of displacement and destruction resumed.
People inspect the debris and rubble at the site of Israeli bombardment on a residential block in Jalaa Street in Gaza City on Jan. 14, 2025 amid the ongoing war in the Palestinian territory between Israel and Hamas.(OMAR AL-QATTAA/AFP via Getty Images)
Israeli Rule: Settlements and Economic Integration
After Israel took over Gaza in the Six-Day War in 1967, Jewish settlements were built within the coastal enclave, creating economic interactions between the two peoples – but also increasing the level of tension.
Amir Tibon, himself a survivor of the October 7 attack, describes in his book “The Gates of Gaza,” Palestinians found out what life looked like for their Israeli neighbors, who enjoyed a significantly higher standard of living. Soon, hundreds of thousands of Gazans would enter Israel daily for work, and Gaza’s economy became tied to Israel’s, but hostility persisted. In the 1980s, the Islamist organization Hamas became a rising force among Palestinians in Gaza, eventually succeeding in taking over the enclave and turning it into a fortress of terror.
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The Palestinian Authority’s Short-Lived Rule
After the Oslo Accords, the Palestinian Authority (PA) took administrative control of Gaza in the 1990s. For the first time, there was hope for Palestinian self-rule, but corruption and internal strife plagued the PA’s governance. During the Second Intifada (2000–2005), terrorist attacks from Gaza escalated, leading to Israeli military operations that devastated the region once again.
Members of the Hamas terror group gather in Gaza in preparation for the release of four female hostages as part of the ceasefire deal with Israel.(TPS-IL)
Hamas: Ruling by Force, Trapping Its People
In 2005, Israel withdrew from Gaza, removing all settlements. In 2007, elections were held, and Hamas took control, ousting the PA. Since then, Hamas has engaged in repeated attacks on Israel, leading to destruction and humanitarian crises. With Hamas prioritizing terrorism over governance, Gaza has remained in a state of war and siege. Today, it is one of the most densely populated places in the world, with 2 million residents.
Richard Goldberg, a senior adviser at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, told Fox News Digital, “Israel withdrew unilaterally 20 years ago. Egypt wants nothing to do with Gaza. Hamas is a terrorist group, not a government. Gaza is no man’s land, with 2 million people used as political pawns instead of human beings.”
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A Land That Has Always Been Rebuilt
Trump’s idea of relocating Gaza’s population and rebuilding new communities echoes patterns from the past. Whether it was the Philistines, Ottomans, the British, or Egyptians, Gaza has frequently seen its population displaced, only to return or be reshaped under new rulers. While today’s political realities make mass relocation unlikely, history shows that radical shifts in Gaza’s demography are not unprecedented.
Ratha Saptami is an annual Hindu festival that is dedicated to Lord Surya and is marked on the Shukla Paksha Saptami in the month of Magha. Ratha Saptami 2025 will be celebrated on February 4. The celebration is an important observance for devotees of Lord Surya. Ratha Saptami is a highly auspicious day and it is considered as auspicious as Surya Grahan for Dan-Punya activities. As we celebrate Ratha Saptami 2025, here is everything you need to know about this day, how to celebrate Ratha Saptami and its significance.
When is Ratha Saptami 2025?
Ratha Saptami 2025 will be marked on February 4. The annual observance is marked on the Saptami tithi in the bright phase of Magha month. The Saptami tithi for Ratha Saptami 2025 will begin at 06:07 on Feb 04, 2025, and will go on till 04:00 on Feb 05, 2025. It is considered to be extremely auspicious to have a holy dip in the river on the occasion of Ratha Saptami. The Snan Muhurat on Ratha Saptami 2025 will be from 05:05 to 06:45 on February 4. Ratha Saptami 2025: Tirumala Radiates With Light, Floral Decor as City Gears Up for Grand ‘Ratha Saptami’ Celebrations at Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh’s Tirupati.
Ratha Saptami 2025 Date and Muhurat
Ratha Saptami on Tuesday, February 4, 2025
Snan Muhurat on Ratha Saptami – 05:31 to 07:12
Duration – 01 Hour 41 Mins
Civil Dawn on Ratha Saptami – 06:49
Observational Sunrise time on Ratha Saptami – 07:12
Saptami Tithi Begins – 04:37 on Feb 04, 2025
Saptami Tithi Ends – 02:30 on Feb 05, 2025
Significance of Ratha Saptami
The Saptami tithi is usually dedicated to Lord Surya, and the festival of Ratha Saptami is believed to be extremely auspicious. It is believed that Lord Surya Dev started enlightening the whole world on Ratha Saptami day, which was considered the birthday of God Surya. On the occasion of Ratha Saptami, people often observe a stringent fast and offer their prayers to Lord Surya. Waking up early in the morning, having a holy dip and lighting the auspicious Deepak is also an integral part of the Ratha Saptami celebration.
The commemoration of Ratha Saptami is often considered to be as important as the day of Surya Grahan when it comes to charity. Because of this, people often mark the day by indulging in acts of charity. People often refer to this day as Surya Jayanti as well. Here’s wishing everyone a Happy Ratha Saptami 2025!
(Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 04, 2025 08:59 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
