As the end of the year comes to a close, several attacks erupted in various places around the world. The month of December is supposed to be the time of giving, sharing, loving and caring for one another. Nonetheless, the plethora of victims killed and various families affected will no longer get a chance to feel the holiday spirit like us. In case you missed some of these tragic current events, I give you the latest recap:

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Warning: graphic images below

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Istanbul, Turkey

As if the previous attack last June was not enough, catastrophe once again attacks Istanbul leaving more than 30 people dead and over 100 wounded in a bombing incident near the Istanbul stadium on December 10, 2016.

Here’s an article from Fox News.

Aleppo, Syria

For months now, Syrians have been suffering loss and pain due to violent bombings, airstrikes, and more. Children were killed and many were wounded. It is a tough year for the citizens of Aleppo. Destruction of homes, buildings, structures and water pipes impacted the people’s living.

Here’s an older article from the New York Times back in September.

Russia’s ambassador to Turkey

Russia’s ambassador to Turkey, Andrey Karlov, was assassinated on December 19, 2016 in an art exhibition in Ankara while giving a speech. The gunman shouted “Do not forget Aleppo!” before shooting.

Here’s an article from CNN.

Berlin, Germany

On December 19, 2016, a truck drove into Berlin’s Christmas market killing about 12 people and injuring 48 others. Officials who were investigating the crash found identification of the suspect. ISIS also claimed responsibility for the attack.

Here’s an article from NPR.

Tultepec, Mexico

Like many countries around the world, Mexico celebrates the holidays by setting off noises and lights through fireworks. On December 20, 2016, an explosion occurred in one of Mexico’s fireworks market where more than 30 people were killed and over 70 people injured.

Here’s an article from the Daily Mail.

Zurich, Switzerland

Three people were wounded on December 20, 2016 after a gunman attacked them while attending prayers at an Islamic center in Zurich. Nevertheless, the gunman has eventually been found dead.

Here’s an article from the New York Times.

…and many more tragedies probably left out and unheard by the media. I could also throw in the stabbing that happened in Ohio State University on November 28, 2016. In wake of these tragedies, we must continue to pray and hope for peace and the betterment of our world and humanity.