A Turkish opposition MP, Hasan Bitmez, died in the hospital Wednesday after suffering a heart attack during a parliamentary speech condemning Israel's actions in Gaza. Bitmez, 54, of the Saadet Party, had accused Turkey's ruling AK Party of complicity in Israeli violence, shouting "You have the blood of Palestinians on your hands!" before suddenly collapsing at the podium. An angiography showed main heart arteries blocked. Bitmez's impassioned speech came amid ongoing Turkish criticism of Israel under President Erdogan, who called Israel a "terror state" and said Hamas is not a terrorist group. The speech reflected persisting divisions over Middle East policy.

Elon Musk intends to launch a university, K-12 school, and Montessori in Austin, Texas, as per recent tax filings for his charity, "The Foundation." With an initial donation exceeding $100 million, Musk's blueprint includes a STEM-focused K-12 school and eventual expansion into a university, seeking accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. This move marks Musk's latest venture in education, following his establishment of a small school in Los Angeles. The initiative aligns with Musk's broader vision of transforming Central Texas, where he has recently developed the town of Snailbrook.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reiterated his commitment to the two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, countering Israeli Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely's recent rejection of the plan. Sunak expressed concern over the ongoing conflict, emphasizing the need for a resolution. While acknowledging Israel's right to self-defense, Sunak emphasized the importance of protecting civilians. Hotovely, in an interview with Sky News, categorically dismissed the possibility of a two-state solution, stating that Palestinians never intended to have a state alongside Israel. The divergence in positions highlights the complexity of the Middle East peace process.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reassured citizens regarding the £38,700 minimum income requirement for British citizens bringing in foreign family members. Facing concerns that the rule could separate families, Sunak stated during Prime Minister's Questions that the government is reconsidering its initial stance on reapplications and is exploring "transitional arrangements" for affected individuals. Labour MP Sir Stephen Timms raised concerns about disrupted marriage plans and families needing visa extensions. Sunak emphasized the need for financial support but assured that fair transitional measures would be announced shortly. Home Secretary James Cleverly and immigration minister Tom Pursglove echoed these sentiments.

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated during a press conference that peace in Ukraine would only be achieved when Russia fulfills its goals, emphasizing "Denazification of Ukraine, the demilitarization of Ukraine." Despite previous terms, Putin, noting Ukraine's counteroffensive setbacks, signals a continued push for full capitulation. He dismisses the need for a new mobilization in Russia, claiming sufficient armed forces, and alleges a drying up of Western military aid to Ukraine. Putin asserts, "Ukraine produces nearly nothing, everything is coming from the west, but the free things will run out someday."

Kenya's President William Ruto has announced a groundbreaking move to enhance tourism by abolishing visa requirements for all travelers starting January 2024. The nation's digital platform will now facilitate electronic travel authorization in advance, eliminating the need for traditional visa applications. President Ruto expressed the vision for a seamless travel experience, stating, "It shall no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the globe to carry the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya." This initiative aligns with Ruto's longstanding advocacy for visa-free travel within Africa, aiming to boost Kenya's thriving tourism sector.

Undecided Republican Ginny Mitchell queried presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy at a CNN Townhall, asking how Americans could accept a non-Christian president. Ramaswamy responded, "I won't fake my identity. I am a Hindu." He emphasized, "Hinduism and Christianity share the same value set in common." Addressing concerns about promoting Christianity, he stated, "Would I be the best president for that? No, I would not be the perfect choice." Ramaswamy aims to make faith and patriotism cool, asserting, "My job will be to stand for values that America was founded on."            

The Republican-controlled US House of Representatives voted to initiate a formal impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden, centered on his son Hunter's international dealings. Allegations of influence-peddling during Hunter's business ventures in Ukraine and China are at the core, though no evidence has been presented. The party-line vote of 221 to 212 sets the stage for a politically charged platform for Republicans, aiming to impact Biden's 2024 reelection campaign. Biden denounced the move as a "baseless political stunt," emphasizing Republicans' failure to address pressing issues. The inquiry, if pursued, faces challenges in a Democrat-controlled Senate.

Amid heightened global concern over the Gaza conflict, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan is set to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on December 14-15. Concurrently, Israel's Foreign Minister, Eli Cohen, reaffirms an unwavering commitment to continue the war against Hamas, dismissing international calls for a ceasefire. Despite President Biden's caution and a UN plea for humanitarian intervention, Cohen argues a ceasefire would empower Hamas. The conflict's toll on northern Gaza is dire, with over 18,000 Palestinian casualties and 80% of the population displaced. President Biden voices apprehension over waning global support, urging restraint.            

A declassified US intelligence report reveals staggering losses for Russia in the Ukraine war—315,000 dead and injured troops, nearly 90% of its initial force. The report asserts setbacks in Moscow's military modernization, equivalent to an 18-year delay. Russia's invasion began with 360,000 personnel, and 87% have been killed or injured since February 2022. The dire situation prompts Russia to ease recruitment standards and declare a partial mobilization. With 2,200 tanks lost, the army resorts to using outdated T62 tanks from the 1970s. Western estimates challenge Russian claims, highlighting the significant toll on both sides.