As the countries around the world welcomed the arrival of 2025, people rejoiced in various ways from fireworks displays to light shows, marking the onset of the new year with spectacular celebrations.
Australia's iconic Sydney set the stage for a grand New Year's Eve extravaganza, igniting the night sky with a symphony of fireworks at the stroke of midnight on Jan. 1. From the majestic Sydney Harbour Bridge to the famed Sydney Opera House and the rooftops of buildings that peppered the harbor, a breathtaking display spanning seven kilometers unfolded. Over nine tons of fireworks lit up the night for 12 minutes, while drones and aerial firing platforms introduced a fresh dimension to the revelry.
"It's the nicest city in the world right now. It will be the first to go to 2025. And I wish you a happy new year to everyone," said Thibault Godard, a French tourist.
The world's tallest marvel, Dubai's Burj Khalifa, stood as a beacon of wonder, staging a traditional New Year's fireworks and light show. Over 15,600 fireworks, accompanied by 200 beams of light and lasers, bathed the Dubai skyline in a cascade of colors. As the crowd joined in a collective countdown, the Burj Khalifa emblazoned "Happy New Year" in Arabic, English, and Chinese, while brilliant fireworks cascaded around its towering frame. This year's theme, "Beyond Dreams," unfolded over nearly nine minutes, weaving together original music, lights, lasers, and fireworks into a spellbinding performance.
"There are a lot of hopes for the coming year to be even better, to see my family happy, to be successful in what I do. And as usual, for the world to be more in peace," said Ahmed, a tourist.
In Thailand, Bangkok's Menam River hosted a mesmerizing fireworks spectacle as the clock struck midnight on Jan. 1. Tens of thousands of fireworks danced across a 1,400-meter canvas of the night sky, painting a vivid tapestry that spanned five kilometers. Approximately 100,000 locals and visitors from around the world joined hands in celebration, welcoming the dawn of a new year with awe-inspiring fervor.
Global New Year celebrations light up skies
Global New Year celebrations light up skies
Global New Year celebrations light up skies
The Iranian government is focusing on public concerns and maintaining stable supplies of essential goods amid recent protests, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said in a televised interview on Sunday.
In the city of Karaj, northwest of the capital Tehran, daily life has largely continued as normal. A video filmed by a local resident on Sunday shows food stores open and grocery shelves fully stocked.
"This is the block near my home, and there are some food stores here. Daily life continues here. Last night we did not see many protests in Karaj. Right now the city is very safe. This is a grocery store close to my home. All the food is available; nothing is in shortage. Here are noodles and different types of beans. Here are dairy products, cheese, and yogurt. I also checked other grocery stores and didn't see any shortages. Everything is available," said local resident Ali Reza.
Iranian officials have described recent disturbances as acts orchestrated by the "enemy," including some carried out by well-trained and armed "terrorists." The incidents have caused casualties among security personnel and civilians, as well as property damage.
The Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani has directed authorities to severely punish the "terrorists."
Meanwhile, Iran's police chief Ahmad-Reza Radan said on Sunday that the police had raised alert levels and arrested several leaders of the troublemakers during the operations on Saturday.
President Pezeshkian noted in the interview that the normal demands of the Iranian people are reasonable and justified, but they must realize that triggering riots and carrying out terrorist acts are the enemy's attempts to undermine the country. He urged the public to remain vigilant.
Also on Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned that Tehran would regard U.S. and Israeli bases and facilities in the Middle East as "legitimate targets" if Washington takes military action against Iran. His remarks followed media reports saying U.S. President Donald Trump is "seriously considering authorizing a strike" against Iran.
Iranian state media reported that at least 109 members of Iran's security forces have been killed in clashes since the protests began 14 days ago. Meanwhile, human rights groups based outside the country said the number of protesters killed has exceeded 200, though the figure could not be independently verified.
The protests initially erupted over a sharp depreciation of the rial and sweeping subsidy reforms. Iranian authorities have blamed the unrest on foreign-linked agents and sanctions imposed by the United States.
Iranian president says government focusing on ensuring supplies amid protests
