December 25, 2011 (Sunday)
Armed conflicts and attacks
- The Sudanese People's Armed Forces claim that the leader of the Justice and Equality Movement in Darfur, Khalil Ibrahim, has been killed. (Xinhua)
- At least 39 people are killed and many injured in a series of attacks against churches in Nigeria during Christmas prayers. The Islamic group Boko Haram claims responsibility. (USA Today)
- The Syrian opposition urge the Arab League to visit the city of Homs before the government reportedly uses force to end dissent in the area. (Al Jazeera)
Arts and culture
- Pope Benedict XVI delivers the annual Christmas message at Saint Peter's Square in Vatican City. (CNN)
Disasters and accidents
- At least 38 migrants from Haiti are found dead after their boat sank off the east coast of Cuba. (Al Jazeera)
- State Emergency Service volunteers respond to more than 3000 calls for help after Melbourne, Australia is hit by a series of storms bringing rainstorms, hail and a tornado. (The Australian)
Law and crime
- Faezeh Hashemi, the daughter of former President of Iran Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, stands trial on charges of making anti-regime propaganda. (Yahoo Maktoob)
Science
- The warmest temperature ever recorded at the South Pole is set with a top of -12.3°C set at the Amundsen–Scott South Pole Station. (Weather Underground)