Syria's rebel-led government reported 14 interior ministry troops killed and 10 wounded in clashes with Assad loyalists near Tartous. The loyalists ambushed security forces pursuing a former officer linked to Assad’s regime. Reinforcements were deployed, leading to arrests, including the ex-officer. Demonstrations and unrest have also erupted in Alawite-dominated areas like Homs and Latakia, following concerns over revenge against the Assad-linked Alawite community. Syria's new leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, faces mounting challenges to stabilize the nation after ousting Assad's regime in a lightning offensive. Syrians demand justice for atrocities under Assad, complicating reconciliation efforts.

Ukrainian forces have captured an injured North Korean soldier sent to support Russia’s war in Ukraine, marking the first such capture since December. South Korea’s spy agency confirmed the capture, following the circulation of a photo on Telegram. North Korea is believed to have deployed over 10,000 soldiers to aid Russia, although neither Moscow nor Pyongyang have confirmed the troops' presence. Ukrainian forces suspect some North Koreans have been issued fake Russian IDs. The collaboration between Russia and North Korea, involving elite troops, increases tensions and poses risks for regional stability.

An Australian newspaper sparked controversy by depicting Virat Kohli as a clown after his on-field clash with Sam Konstas during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. The newspaper’s headline, “Clown Kohli,” showed Kohli with a clown’s nose and mocked the incident, where Kohli shouldered Konstas. Ravi Shastri, reacting to the over-the-top response from the Australian media, suggested it reflected desperation due to Australia’s winless run at Melbourne’s MCG. Shastri also defended the 20% fine imposed on Kohli, noting that precedents exist for such breaches of conduct.

Azerbaijan Airlines' Embraer 190 crashed in western Kazakhstan on December 25, 2024, killing 38 and injuring 29. The flight, diverted from Baku to Aktau, came down after reportedly encountering worsening weather. Early reports suggest Russian air defense systems may have targeted the plane, with holes in the tail section of the wreckage consistent with missile shrapnel. However, both Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan officials caution against speculation. Investigators are examining potential causes, including a bird strike and possible missile involvement. Azerbaijan observed a nationwide mourning day with a moment of silence for the victims.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed willingness to hold peace talks with Ukraine in Slovakia, following Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico's offer to host negotiations. Fico, who recently visited Moscow, has been critical of EU support for Ukraine and has fostered closer ties with Russia. While Ukraine has not responded, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has shifted his stance, suggesting a ceasefire under NATO's protection to negotiate territorial recovery. The war has inflicted immense losses on both sides, with Russia's manpower significantly affected. Ukrainian forces have faced difficulties in reclaiming territories held by Russia.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus was at Yemen's Sanaa airport during Israeli airstrikes on Thursday, which killed 6 and injured 40. Tedros, in Yemen to assess the humanitarian situation and negotiate the release of UN detainees, was unhurt but reported damage to the airport’s control tower and runway. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed the strikes targeted "military infrastructure" of the Houthi rebels. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called the attacks "especially alarming." Houthi officials condemned the strikes as "barbaric," while Iran criticized them as violating international peace. Escalating tensions continue between Yemen and Israel.

Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India, passed away at 92, leaving behind a significant legacy in both political and economic spheres. Known for his role in economic reforms during the 1990s and the India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, his leadership shaped India's modern economy. His tenure saw impressive GDP growth and key social initiatives, though his legacy was marred by controversies such as the 2G and CWG scams. A celebrated economist, Singh's contributions to India's development are widely acknowledged, and he remains a towering figure in Indian political history.

Pakistan confirmed airstrikes on militants' hideouts in Afghanistan's Paktika province, killing 46 people, including women and children. Conducted as an intelligence-based operation against threats to Pakistani citizens, the strikes drew condemnation from Afghanistan's Taliban regime, labeling them "outright aggression." Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai criticized Pakistan's "flawed extremism policies," calling the strikes a sovereignty violation. Abdullah Abdullah also condemned the attacks. Pakistan's Foreign Office defended the operation, emphasizing citizen security and dialogue with Afghanistan. Afghan officials vowed to respond to this "brutal act," warning such actions won’t resolve tensions between the neighbors.                

Passengers aboard a British Airways flight from Delhi experienced festive cheer upon landing at London Heathrow on Christmas Day. A passenger's Instagram video showcased sparkling lights and Christmas music inside the plane, creating a magical atmosphere. "Thank you for the festive cheer, British Airways. Merry Christmas," the user wrote. Instagram users praised the heartwarming celebration, while some offered humorous critiques, like suggesting Bollywood songs. The gesture drew mixed reactions, with some passengers finding it unnecessary. This festive initiative highlighted the airline's effort to spread holiday joy to travelers during their journey.

On Christmas Day, French authorities rescued 107 people trying to cross the English Channel to the UK. Twelve rescue operations took place off northern France, including one near Dunkirk where 51 people were saved from a boat in distress. Despite the calm weather, the Channel remains a dangerous area for small, overcrowded boats. A total of 451 people arrived in the UK on 11 boats. 2024 has become the deadliest year on record, with 73 deaths so far. Charities warn of the risks of winter crossings and continue to assist stranded migrants.