Lava, Protests, and Surprises: Highlights from This Week's News Photos

This week’s news imagery ranges from natural disasters and social movements to unique cultural expressions.

As the world continues to grapple with varied phenomena, striking photographs provide a snapshot of current events.

In Iceland, the Icelandic Meteorological Office reported a new fissure eruption near Grindavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula on November 21, with lava flowing across local roads, transforming the landscape.

Across the English Channel, actor Jeff Goldblum delighted London commuters at St Pancras International with an impromptu piano performance, sharing Christmas melodies in anticipation of his role as the Wizard in the upcoming film Wicked.

Meanwhile, in Ecuador, firefighters battled a raging wildfire at El Cajas National Park, illustrating the ongoing challenges of environmental management.

In India, a farmer was seen harvesting water chestnuts in a tranquil pond near Jabalpur, juxtaposing the hustle of urban life with the serenity of agricultural labor.

In the realm of sports, French MotoGP rider Fabio Quartararo participated in the Official Barcelona Test for the 2025 season, showcasing the preparation and anticipation for future racing events.

In Aberdeenshire, Scotland, the fish-shaped Muckle Troot Loch was enveloped in snow and ice, highlighting the severe winter conditions that have recently gripped parts of the UK.

In a significant political display, over 40,000 protesters gathered outside New Zealand's Parliament to oppose a controversial bill aimed at revising the nation’s founding document regarding relations with Māori people. This marked the conclusion of a nine-day peaceful march, or hīkoi, emphasizing the cultural struggle and advocacy for indigenous rights.

Among other highlights, farmers in the UK expressed their discontent with proposed inheritance tax changes by driving tractors past Westminster as protests escalated, showing the intersection of agricultural policy and political protest.

In Spain, the community continues to deal with the aftermath of devastating floods in Chiva, which claimed over 200 lives and left numerous individuals missing following a catastrophic rain event.

Lastly, individuals dressed as Father Christmas participated in the Ministry of Fun's annual Santa School training at the Postal Museum in London, an endearing nod to festive traditions that has included letters to the jolly figure since 1963.