3.3 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Pakistan; Venezuela Condemns US Tanker Seizure
Earthquake in Pakistan, US seizes oil tanker near Venezuela

A series of significant events unfolded globally on Saturday, December 21, 2025, ranging from a seismic tremor in Pakistan to escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela. Key developments also included a political endorsement by former US President Donald Trump and a road accident involving a Bollywood personality in Mumbai.

Earthquake Strikes Pakistan's Balochistan Region

Residents of Pakistan's Khuzdar district in Balochistan experienced a 3.3 magnitude earthquake early on Saturday. According to reports from the National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC) cited by Geo News, the tremor originated at a depth of 8 kilometres.

The epicentre was located roughly 70 kilometres west of Khuzdar. Initial assessments by authorities indicated that no alarming reports of damage or casualties had been received from the affected areas following the seismic event. Monitoring of the situation continues.

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US-Venezuela Tensions Escalate Over Oil Tankers

In a move that has further strained diplomatic relations, US forces stopped a second merchant vessel in international waters off the coast of Venezuela. American officials stated that the tanker halted voluntarily and allowed US personnel to board it.

This action follows the recent announcement by US President Donald Trump of a "blockade" on all sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela. It also comes days after the initial seizure of an oil tanker by American forces on December 10.

The Venezuelan government responded fiercely, condemning the latest seizure as an act of "theft and kidnapping." In a statement shared on social media by Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, officials warned, "These acts will not go unpunished." The statement further held those responsible accountable to "justice and to history for their criminal conduct."

Trump Endorses Candidate for New York Governor Race

On the domestic political front in the United States, former President Donald Trump announced his endorsement for the upcoming New York gubernatorial race. He threw his support behind Nassau County Republican Executive Bruce Blakeman for the election scheduled next fall.

This endorsement came shortly after Trump's longtime ally, Rep. Elise Stefanik, suspended her campaign for the position. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, "Bruce is MAGA all the way, and has been with me from the very beginning." Political analysts suggest this move could solidify Blakeman's position in the GOP primary, potentially setting up a contest against the incumbent Democratic Governor, Kathy Hochul.

Bollywood Actress Nora Fatehi Unhurt in Mumbai Accident

In a concerning incident in India's entertainment capital, actress and dancer Nora Fatehi was involved in a road accident in Mumbai. Her car was reportedly hit by a drunk driver.

Fortunately, Fatehi escaped uninjured from the collision. She was taken to a nearby hospital as a precautionary measure for first aid, where her condition was confirmed to be stable. The Mumbai Police have registered a case against the intoxicated driver, who has been taken into custody.

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