Rare snowfall transformed parts of the Arabian desert into a striking white landscape this week, with snow covering vast stretches near the Saudi-UAE border. The unusual weather phenomenon was triggered by low-pressure systems over the Middle East, bringing heavy rain and snow to regions that typically experience extreme heat. Residents across northern Saudi Arabia stepped out to celebrate the rare winter sight, capturing the extraordinary moment as desert sands disappeared beneath a blanket of white. The unexpected snowfall created stunning contrasts in a landscape known for scorching temperatures, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for local communities. This meteorological anomaly highlights the unpredictable nature of weather patterns affecting the Arabian Peninsula.

Israel has approved 19 new settlements in the occupied West Bank. The decision was cleared by the security cabinet. Far-right minister Bezalel Smotrich proposed the move. He said it was meant to block a future Palestinian state. Settlements in the West Bank are illegal under international law. Saudi Arabia condemned the decision. The United Nations warned the move will raise tensions. Violence in the area has increased since the Gaza war began. Rights groups say settlement growth weakens chances of peace. About 700,000 Israeli settlers live in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. (PC: BBC)

Nine people were killed when gunmen opened fire at a tavern in South Africa early Sunday. The attack happened in Bekkersdal, near Johannesburg. Police said the bar was selling alcohol illegally. The gunmen entered after midnight and shot at people without warning. Three died inside the tavern. Others were killed while trying to run away. Ten people were hurt and taken to hospital. Police said most attackers used pistols and one carried an AK-47. The attackers also robbed victims before fleeing. A manhunt has been launched. (PC: Al Jazeera)

A student from Gujarat has sent an SOS video from Ukraine. Sahil Mohammad Hussain said he went to Russia on a student visa. He claimed police framed him in a false drug case. He said he was forced to join the Russian army to clear the charge. After 15 days of training, he was sent to the front line. He later surrendered to Ukrainian forces. Sahil appealed to Narendra Modi for help. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said India is working to bring back such citizens. Families have urged swift action. (PC: NDTV)

India has dismissed reports of a security breach at the Bangladesh High Commission as misleading. The government said a small protest near the mission was peaceful and brief. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said police quickly dispersed the group. There was no attempt to cross security barriers. India also expressed concern over the killing of Hindu man Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh. Officials urged swift action against the killers. Security around the mission in New Delhi has been increased. India said it remains committed to protecting all foreign missions under international law. (PC: HT)

Poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar took part in a public debate on the existence of God in New Delhi. The event was held at the Constitution Club. Islamic scholar Mufti Shamail Nadwi argued for faith and free will. Akhtar questioned belief by pointing to war and human suffering. He said violence in God’s name raises moral doubts. During the debate, Akhtar quipped that Narendra Modi was “better” because he at least cares for people. The remark went viral online. The debate sparked sharp reactions across social media. (PC: India Today)

Rights groups have condemned a sharp rise in executions in Saudi Arabia. At least 347 people have been executed this year. This is the highest number on record. UK-based group Reprieve said most cases were linked to drug crimes. Many of those executed were foreign nationals. Some were minors at the time of arrest. Families were often not informed in advance. Critics say trials were unfair and confessions forced. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has pushed reforms but dissent is tightly controlled. Saudi authorities deny wrongdoing and defend the death penalty.

Violence continued in Bangladesh after the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. A mob set fire to the home of a leader from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. The attack happened in Lakshmipur late at night. A seven-year-old girl died in the fire. Her father and two sisters suffered severe burns. They were taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Police said the doors were locked before the house was set on fire. The country remains on high alert. Protests have spread to several cities. Leaders have called for calm amid rising tension. (PC: HT)

A minute’s silence was held at Bondi Beach to remember victims of last week’s deadly shooting. The attack happened during a Hanukkah event. Fifteen people were killed, including two children. Crowds gathered as heavy police security guarded the area. Candles were lit across Australia in a show of unity. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was booed by some in the crowd. Community leaders blamed rising antisemitism. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticised Australia after the attack. (PC: BBC)

India has indefinitely suspended visa services at the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Chittagong, Bangladesh, effective December 21, 2025, citing security concerns following a recent incident near the Assistant High Commission of India in the port city. The move comes amid heightened tensions and unrest triggered by the death of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, which sparked protests and clashes. The IVAC statement said operations will remain halted until further notice, with a decision to resume only after the security situation is reviewed. No timeline has been given for reopening the centre. (PC: The Hindu)