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Iran President Says Country Is in ‘Full-Scale War’ With West

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Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran is engaged in a “full-scale” war with the United States, Israel and Europe, describing the nation’s diplomatic and economic situation as increasingly difficult. His remarks were published in an interview on the official website of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

‘More Complicated Than the Iran-Iraq War’

Pezeshkian said Western powers do not want Iran “to stand on its feet” and argued that the current confrontation is more complex than the 1980–1988 Iran-Iraq war. Despite sanctions and mounting pressure, he said Iran remains capable of defending its national interests.

Tensions Ahead of Netanyahu’s U.S. Visit

The interview was released ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the United States, where he is expected to meet President Donald Trump. Discussions are expected to include Gaza, Hamas, remaining hostages and what Israeli officials describe as the threat posed by Iran to the region and the U.S.

Aftermath of June Conflict

U.S. and Israeli forces carried out joint strikes on Iran in June during a 12-day conflict that killed about 1,100 people in Iran and targeted nuclear facilities, air defenses and military sites. Senior military, IRGC and nuclear personnel were among those killed. Iranian retaliatory missile strikes killed 28 people in Israel.

During the fighting, Netanyahu suggested Iran could face regime change, while Trump publicly raised the possibility of targeting Iran’s supreme leader. Since then, negotiations over Iran’s nuclear and missile programs have stalled.

Military Warnings and Economic Strain

Netanyahu is set to meet Trump shortly after Iran conducted large-scale military exercises involving ballistic missiles, prompting renewed warnings from Israel. Inside Iran, economic pressure is intensifying as the rial continues to weaken, fueling protests and business closures in parts of Tehran.

A President Elected Amid Discontent

Pezeshkian was elected earlier this year to replace President Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash in 2024. The election saw the lowest turnout in Iran’s history, with Pezeshkian viewed as a moderate figure amid widespread public dissatisfaction.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

300 roosters rescued, man arrested following fighting ring bust in Crosby, officials say

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CROSBY, Texas (KTRK) — A Mont Belvieu man was arrested following a rooster-fighting ring bust in Crosby on Saturday, according to documents.

Court records show that Magdaleno Herrera, 45, is being charged with owning and operating a rooster-fighting ring in Crosby.

ABC13 first reported on the rooster-fighting ring after a bust by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office on Saturday.

PREVIOUS REPORT: Hundreds of roosters found during investigation into alleged rooster fighting ring, HCSO says

Documents filed on Sunday morning confirmed Herrera’s arrest.

Images posted by HCSO on social media show several deputies removing roosters from wire cages on Herrera’s alleged property.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said that about 300 live roosters and about 50 dead ones were found at the property.

He thanked the Harris County Veterinary Public Health and the Houston Humane Society/SPCA for their help in the investigation.

HCSO said that five spectators were issued citations and that the follow-up investigation continues.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Colder and breezy weather for Monday behind an early morning cold front

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The cold front that arrived early this morning is bringing the chill! A Wind Advisory for much of Southeast Texas lasts until 6PM Monday, though the winds this afternoon are much lighter than the early morning winds we experienced. The winds also created power-outage issues, at one point nearly 30k customers were without power across Southeast Texas. These gusty winds will also bringing the chill, actual temperatures today will be mostly spent in the upper 40s and low 50s, with feels-like temperatures around 40 degrees.

How cold are we getting with this front?

After a cold and breezy Monday with highs in the low 50s, Tuesday will be another cold day with morning lows in the upper 30s and afternoon highs only in the 50s. Thankfully we’ll have more sunshine around for Tuesday and Wednesday. Wednesday morning is when conditions could be right for a light freeze north of I-10 and the city of Houston with temperatures dropping into the low-mid 30s.

What about some measurable rain or any storms?

We had a few showers as the front moved through, and even behind the front there’s a chance for a sprinkle or shower, but everything that falls today will be light and brief. This is another drier outlook over the next week or two, meaning drought conditions could creep back into the region if they got better earlier this fall.

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Southeast Texas
Houston
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This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!

Trump Signals Momentum Toward Peace Deal

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President Donald Trump said the United States, Russia and Ukraine are “maybe very close” to a peace deal following meetings and calls with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump met with Zelenskyy on Sunday at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.

Trump described the talks as productive, saying negotiators have addressed roughly “95%” of the issues needed to end the war.

Meetings With Putin and Zelenskyy

Trump said his more than two-hour phone call with Putin helped move discussions forward, followed by what he called a “terrific” in-person meeting with Zelenskyy. He also spoke with European leaders afterward, saying those conversations went well.

Zelenskyy thanked Trump for hosting the meeting and said negotiations are nearing completion. He cited progress on a 20-point peace plan, U.S.-Ukraine security guarantees, and military arrangements, while noting that some elements are still being finalized.

Territory Remains the Hardest Issue

Trump acknowledged that territorial disputes remain the most difficult obstacle, particularly in eastern Ukraine. While progress has been made, he said it would be inaccurate to claim agreements are finalized, including on possible land swaps or a demilitarized zone in the Donbas.

Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine’s position on territory is “very clear,” emphasizing respect for Ukrainian law and sovereignty, while acknowledging that Kyiv and Moscow remain far apart on the issue.

Ceasefire Talks Still Uncertain

A ceasefire remains another sticking point. Trump said Putin is hesitant to pause fighting without assurances, fearing hostilities could resume. Trump said negotiators are working to find alternatives that could move talks forward.

Despite ongoing Russian attacks, Trump said he believes Putin is serious about ending the war, adding that people in both countries want the conflict to end.

What Comes Next

Both leaders said negotiations will continue in the coming weeks. Trump said future meetings could take place in Washington with Zelenskyy and European leaders.

“If things go really well,” Trump said, a deal could come together within weeks — though he cautioned that a breakthrough is not guaranteed, calling the talks “a very difficult negotiation.”

For more on the potential for a peace deal on the Russia-Ukraine war, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie post-divorce family conflict

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A Legal Ending, a Personal Divide

The divorce settlement between Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, finalized on Dec. 30, 2024, formally closed an eight-year legal battle. Yet while custody and financial disputes are resolved, the agreement underscores a deeper reality: the family itself appears permanently fractured. Most of the couple’s six children have distanced themselves from Pitt, rejecting his surname and limiting contact, leaving reconciliation uncertain.

The Flight That Redefined the Family

The rupture traces back to a Sept. 14, 2016 incident aboard a private jet. FBI records released in 2022 detail allegations by Jolie that Pitt acted aggressively toward her and one of their children during the flight. Though investigators and child protective services ultimately filed no charges, the emotional consequences proved lasting.

Jolie filed for divorce six days later, citing the incident as a turning point. What followed was not just a protracted legal fight, but a gradual unraveling of parent-child relationships that would increasingly play out in public.

Rejecting a Name, Reclaiming Identity

The children’s estrangement has been most visibly expressed through name changes or omissions. Maddox dropped “Pitt” years ago. Zahara publicly introduced herself as “Zahara Marley Jolie” at her Spelman College sorority induction in 2023. Shiloh formally removed “Pitt” from her legal name on her 18th birthday in May 2024. Vivienne was credited as “Vivienne Jolie” in the Broadway playbill for The Outsiders.

Only Knox has retained the Pitt surname, highlighting the deliberateness of his siblings’ decisions.

Pax’s estrangement has been the most explicit. In a 2020 Instagram post later deleted, he accused Pitt of being abusive and emotionally damaging, describing fear among younger siblings. While no longer online, the message reinforced what legal filings and public actions had already suggested: profound internal family harm.

Two Paths After the Split

By mid-2025, sources close to Pitt described his relationships with some children, particularly Pax, as beyond repair. He reportedly has little to no contact with the older children and only limited involvement with the twins, citing work commitments abroad. Though said to be hurt by developments like Shiloh’s name change, he has taken no public steps toward reconciliation.

Jolie, by contrast, has woven her children into her creative life. She has collaborated with Pax on fashion projects and worked alongside Vivienne on The Outsiders, which went on to win Tony Awards. Her representatives describe her focus as prioritizing stability, independence, and healing for the children.

Pitt has largely stayed silent, telling GQ in 2025 that the divorce was simply “coming to fruition. Legally.”

The Clock Is Ticking

The final legal thread ends July 12, 2026, when twins Knox and Vivienne turn 18. At that point, court-ordered custody arrangements expire, removing any judicial structure supporting contact. Those close to Pitt describe the remaining time as his last chance to rebuild relationships while legal pathways still exist.

Whether that effort will succeed remains doubtful. The coordinated name changes, Pax’s public accusations, and Maddox’s earlier remark that “whatever happens, happens” suggest settled decisions rather than temporary distance.

The Jolie-Pitt divorce may be legally complete, but its legacy is unresolved. As the last custody deadlines approach, the family’s future appears less like a reconciliation in progress and more like a permanent division—one defined not by court orders, but by chosen identities and enduring silence.

For more celebrity headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

New Texas laws taking effect Jan. 1 target immigration, taxes, AI and housing

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A wide range of new Texas laws will take effect Jan. 1, 2026, bringing changes to immigration enforcement, business taxes, housing rules, technology regulation and public policy, reflecting priorities set by lawmakers during the 2025 legislative session.

Among the most significant changes is a new immigration enforcement measure requiring most counties that operate jails to participate in a federal program that allows local law enforcement to assist U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Under Senate Bill 8, sheriffs must enter into so-called 287(g) agreements with ICE, expanding the role of local authorities in immigration enforcement. Counties that refuse could face legal action from the Texas attorney general. Supporters say the law strengthens border security, while critics argue it could strain local resources and erode trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities.

Texas businesses will also see tax changes. House Bill 9 significantly raises the exemption for business personal property taxes, increasing the threshold from $2,500 to as much as $125,000 for equipment and inventory. The change follows voter approval of a constitutional amendment and is expected to provide tax relief for small and mid-sized businesses.

Housing laws are also shifting. Senate Bill 38 streamlines eviction procedures, particularly in cases involving unauthorized occupants, and limits the ability of state officials to impose emergency eviction moratoriums during disasters. Property owner groups supported the measure, while housing advocates warned it could reduce tenant protections.

In the technology sector, Texas is moving into artificial intelligence regulation. House Bill 149 establishes a statewide framework governing the use of AI, including requirements for government transparency and restrictions on discriminatory or deceptive uses of the technology. The law positions Texas among a growing number of states attempting to regulate rapidly advancing AI systems.

Another high-profile law targets digital platforms. Senate Bill 2420, known as the App Store Accountability Act, requires app stores to verify users’ ages and obtain parental consent before minors download or purchase apps. Enforcement of the law has been temporarily blocked by a federal judge while courts consider constitutional challenges from technology companies and industry groups.

Other changes taking effect include property tax rules limiting school districts’ ability to raise rates without voter approval following disasters, expanded timelines for enrolling newborns in employer-sponsored health insurance plans, and adjustments to various court and administrative fees.

State leaders say the new laws are aimed at promoting economic growth, strengthening public safety and addressing emerging technologies. Critics argue some measures could restrict access, increase government overreach or face legal hurdles.

Together, the changes mark one of the most expansive sets of new laws Texas residents and businesses will encounter in the new year.

Drone Attacks Hit Ukraine Ahead of High-Stakes Talks

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Russia launched a new wave of drone attacks across Ukraine overnight as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy prepared to meet U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida, Ukrainian officials said Sunday.

Dozens of Drones Fired Overnight

Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia launched 48 drones from Saturday night into Sunday morning. Air defenses shot down or electronically suppressed 30 of them, while 18 struck targets across nine locations. The attacks were part of an intense escalation in recent days, with Ukrainian data showing more than 1,800 drones and missiles fired by Russia over the past week.

Diplomacy Continues as Attacks Escalate

The latest strikes came as Zelenskyy arrived in North America for a series of diplomatic meetings focused on ending Russia’s full-scale invasion, which began in February 2022. Zelenskyy met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in Halifax on Saturday and is scheduled to meet Trump at Mar-a-Lago on Sunday.

In a post on X, Zelenskyy said Russia launched more than 2,100 attack drones, hundreds of guided bombs and dozens of missiles against Ukraine this week alone, calling the period one of the most critical diplomatic moments of the year.

Ukraine Seeks Security Guarantees

Zelenskyy has stressed that any path toward peace depends on strong, legally binding security guarantees from the United States and Europe. He said Ukraine has already made significant compromises, but warned that a ceasefire without protections would leave the country vulnerable to renewed aggression.

“If Europe and America are united with us, we will stop Putin,” Zelenskyy said, adding that divided support would prolong the war.

Putin Signals Pressure, Not Concessions

Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed Western nations are offering Ukraine favorable terms related to security and reconstruction, but suggested Kyiv is unwilling to settle. He warned that Russia would continue military operations if Ukraine’s leadership does not agree to a peace deal.

Zelenskyy has dismissed those claims, describing Russia’s latest missile and drone attacks as Moscow’s true response to peace efforts.

Fighting Continues on Both Sides

Ukraine also continued its long-range strikes against Russian territory overnight. Russia’s Defense Ministry said it shot down at least 25 Ukrainian drones, prompting temporary flight restrictions at several regional airports.

As diplomatic talks intensify, both sides remain locked in escalating military action, underscoring the fragile prospects for a near-term breakthrough.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Woman with flat tire rear-ended and killed along North Freeway, HCSO says

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By Brianna Willis, ABC13 Houston.

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — A deadly crash investigation is underway after a Jeep driver collided with a Honda driver along I-45, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office said.

According to the sheriff’s office, the incident began when a woman driving a Honda Fit got a flat tire at the 14500 block of the North Freeway around 2:30 a.m. Sunday.

Sgt. Kamali said the woman was in the second lane when a Jeep Wrangler rear-ended her car and rolled onto its side. He said she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators reported that the Jeep driver was not hurt and did not show any signs of intoxication.

Kamali explained that another car was in front of the Jeep just before the crash, but it changed lanes at the last moment, so the Jeep driver did not see the Honda.

Authorities believe the Jeep driver was driving at the speed limit when the accident happened.

Investigators said the Jeep driver was allowed to go home and that they do not expect to file any charges.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Snowstorm Disrupts Post-Holiday Travel

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A winter storm sweeping across the Great Lakes and Northeast dumped heavy snow and ice from Friday night into Saturday, snarling post-Christmas travel and creating widespread delays at major airports, including New York City’s JFK and LaGuardia.

Thousands of Flights Impacted

More than 10,000 flights within, into, or out of the United States were delayed Saturday, with over 1,000 cancellations, according to FlightAware. The disruptions extended into Sunday — expected to be the busiest travel day of the holiday season — with more than 600 delays and about 140 cancellations reported early in the day.

Airport Scenes Marked by Delays, Patience

At LaGuardia Airport, flight boards filled with red cancellation notices as snow-covered runways limited operations. Despite the disruptions, many travelers remained calm. Some said they anticipated delays due to the weather, while others, including international visitors, tried to make the most of their final snowy moments in the U.S.

Similar scenes unfolded at Newark Airport, where travelers hoped to escape the winter weather without further setbacks.

Snow Totals and Power Outages

New York City recorded just over four inches of snow in Central Park — the city’s highest snowfall since January 2022 — while parts of Westchester County saw up to six inches. Connecticut experienced the heaviest accumulation, topping eight inches, with more than 11 inches reported in Hartwick, New York.

In Michigan, ice-laden trees and power lines left more than 30,000 homes and businesses without electricity early Saturday.

More Winter Weather Ahead

The storm system is not finished. Another round of wintry weather is forecast to hit the Upper Midwest and Northeast beginning Sunday, bringing snow, wind, rain, and potentially blizzard conditions in parts of the Great Lakes. Forecasters also warn of freezing rain in the northern Appalachians and lake-effect snow in western Pennsylvania and New York, followed by dangerously cold temperatures.

For more updates on the snow story, follow along with Que Onda Magazine.

One last spring-like day before a strong cold front sends us back to winter Monday

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — We’ve got one last spring-like day for Sunday before a strong cold front sends us back to winter Monday with a nearly 40-degree temperature drop in one night.

Saturday we tied another daily record high temperature for Houston when it reached 83 degrees. And Sunday we’ll do it all again! We’ll see a breeze pick up Sunday morning ahead of the strong cold front that’s on the way for Sunday night. And before that passes through, high temperatures will once again climb into the low 80s. Then it’s after sunset with a few showers will develop and track from north to south ahead of and along the cold front that will pass through early Monday morning. A few showers could grow and strengthen into a storm, though no severe weather is expected. These will also be fast-paced showers and storms, moving at the speed of the front.

A Wind Advisory begins at 9 p.m. Sunday and lasts until 6 p.m. Monday for portions of Southeast Texas. This includes Austin, Brazos, Colorado, Grimes, Madison, Waller, and Washington Counties. Northerly winds between 20-30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph are expected. Gusty winds will blow around light and unsecured objects such as Christmas decorations. A few power outages are also possible.

What else should we know about the incoming cold front?

The cold front that’s on the way Sunday night will bring the possibility for a 40-degree temperature drop between Sunday’s highs in the 80s to morning lows Monday in the 40s. This is a strong, fast-paced front that will pave the way for a wintry return and end to 2025 Monday through Wednesday of next week. And while the main impact of this front will be the colder weather, a few showers and a weak storm could develop ahead of and along the front Sunday night.

How cold are we talking behind this front?

temperatures Monday morning will start in the mid 40s and only rebound into the low-mid 50s Monday afternoon. And with a gusty northerly breeze, some clouds and even a stray shower, Monday will feel quite cold outside compared to this 80-degree stretch we’ve had around Christmas. Tuesday will also be colder with morning lows in the upper 30s and afternoon highs only in the 50s too. We’ll have more sunshine through for Tuesday and Wednesday. And it’s by Wednesday morning when conditions could be right for a light freeze north of I-10 and the city of Houston with temperatures dropping into the low-mid 30s.

What about some measurable rain or any storms?

While this incoming front will bring some rain, these showers will be fast-paced so any rainfall totals will be pretty slim. There’s the possibility for another storm system that could bring some heavier downpours to portions of Southeast Texas next Friday and Saturday, but there’s still some uncertainty at this time as to how much and the potential impacts. Otherwise this is another drier outlook over the next week or two, meaning drought conditions could creep back into the region if they got better earlier this fall.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!