December 13

In 2007, EU member states signed the Treaty of Lisbon, which amends the foundational Treaty of Rome and Maastricht Treaty, establishing a stronger constitutional framework for the European Union. This pivotal treaty came into effect on December 1, 2009, enhancing the governance and functionality of the EU.

In 2003, during the Iraq War, Operation Red Dawn led to the capture of former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein near his hometown of Tikrit, marking a pivotal moment in the conflict.

In 2002, the European Union announced its significant enlargement, welcoming Cyprus, Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia as new members, effective May 1, 2004. This expansion marked a pivotal moment in EU history, strengthening the union and promoting economic growth across these nations.

In 2001, the iconic Sansad Bhavan, the home of the Indian Parliament, was the target of a terrorist attack that tragically resulted in the deaths of twelve individuals, including the assailants. This event marked a significant moment in India's security history.

In 1995, Banat Air Flight 166 tragically crashed in Sommacampagna, close to Verona Villafranca Airport in Italy, resulting in the loss of 49 lives. This devastating incident remains a significant event in aviation history.

In 1994, Flagship Airlines Flight 3379 tragically crashed in Morrisville, North Carolina, close to Raleigh-Durham International Airport, resulting in the loss of 15 lives.

In 1989, during The Troubles, the Provisional Irish Republican Army launched a targeted attack on a British Army temporary vehicle checkpoint near Rosslea, Northern Ireland. This violent incident resulted in the deaths of two British soldiers and left two others injured, highlighting the ongoing conflict in the region.

In 1988, PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat delivered a significant speech at the UN General Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, after the United States denied him a visa to attend the meeting at UN headquarters in New York. This pivotal moment highlighted the ongoing tensions in international diplomacy and the Palestinian cause.

In 1982, the North Yemen earthquake, registering 6.0 on the Richter scale, struck southwestern Yemen, causing significant destruction. With a maximum Mercalli intensity of VIII (Severe), this natural disaster resulted in 2,800 fatalities and left 1,500 others injured. Discover more about this devastating event and its impact on Yemen's history.

In 1981, General Wojciech Jaruzelski imposed martial law in Poland, primarily in response to the activities of the Solidarity movement. This significant historical event marked a pivotal moment in Poland's struggle for freedom and democracy.