The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Al-Masri, over alleged war crimes in Gaza. The ICC claims they are responsible for the crime of starvation as a method of warfare, accusing them of depriving Gaza civilians of essential resources like food, water, and medical supplies. The warrants hold symbolic importance, but they also obligate 124 ICC member states to arrest these figures if they enter their territories. Compliance is uncertain, but the warrants mark a significant step in international justice.

Israeli airstrikes on northern Gaza killed at least 66 people, including women and children, near Beit Lahia’s Kamal Adwan hospital. Another 22 died in a strike on Sheikh Radwan, Gaza City. Medical facilities face severe challenges amid dwindling supplies. The UN reports 75,000 under siege with minimal aid delivered in 40 days. Since October 2023, Gaza’s death toll has reached nearly 44,000. The US vetoed a UN Gaza ceasefire resolution, emphasizing the need to link ceasefire and hostage release. Mediator Amos Hochstein expressed hope for a Lebanon ceasefire as the region remains gripped by escalating violence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi co-chaired the India-CARICOM summit, announcing a 7-pillar action plan for stronger India-Caribbean ties. The acronym "CARICOM" represents key areas: capacity building with 1,000 IT scholarships, agriculture with food security solutions, renewable energy through global alliances, innovation using digital payment systems, cricket for cultural ties, ocean economy development, and affordable healthcare initiatives. Leaders praised India's leadership of the Global South and assistance in sustainable development. Modi emphasized resource-sharing to enhance regional cooperation, including scholarships for women’s cricket, maritime security support, and low-cost medicines. The initiative highlights India's commitment to fostering global partnerships.

Russia launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) targeting infrastructure in Dnipro, Ukraine, Kyiv's air force reported, marking the first use of such a powerful weapon in the 33-month war. The missile caused fires at an industrial site, injuring 2, according to officials. Additional strikes included hypersonic Kinzhal and cruise missiles, with six intercepted. This escalation follows Ukraine's use of Western missiles on Russian territory. Analysts question if the U.S. was forewarned about the ICBM launch. Moscow views Western weapon use as a major escalation. The U.S. embassy in Kyiv briefly closed over attack threats before reopening.

In a remarkable discovery, a rare spotless golden cheetah was photographed for the first time in nearly 100 years at the Athi Kapiti Conservancy in Kenya. Captured by British wildlife photographer Guy Combes, this cheetah's golden hue, caused by a recessive gene, represents a significant genetic rarity. Similar to 'King' cheetahs found in South Africa, this sighting emphasizes the urgent need for conservation. With fewer than 1,300 cheetahs in Kenya, this rare sighting highlights the importance of preserving genetic diversity and protecting wildlife amid habitat loss and human development pressures.

Saudi Arabia has announced a ban on the personal and commercial use of religious and national symbols, a move expected to impact residents, including Indians. Commerce Minister Dr. Majid al-Qasabi stated that the decision aims to prevent the misuse of sacred and national emblems such as the national flag, Islamic Declaration of Faith, crosses, swords, and palm trees. The ban also extends to images and names of Saudi leaders. Businesses must comply within 90 days of the decision’s publication in the Official Gazette or face fines and prosecution. This reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to protecting the sanctity of symbols.

Russia and the US have intensified actions in Ukraine ahead of Donald Trump’s return to the White House in January. Russia launched its largest missile strikes in months and eased nuclear weapon use conditions, aiming to maximize battlefield advantage. Meanwhile, the Biden administration approved Kyiv’s use of long-range Atacms missiles on Russian territory and pledged $300M in military aid, including anti-personnel mines. The moves follow Russia’s deployment of North Korean forces, seen as a “massive escalation.” Experts suggest both nations are positioning for negotiations under Trump, though skepticism remains about potential compromises.

India dismissed a The Globe and Mail report alleging government involvement in the assassination of pro-Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia in June 2023. External affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal termed the claims, based on an unnamed Canadian official, "ludicrous" and rejected them outright. He criticized Canada for pursuing smear campaigns, which further strain bilateral ties. Canada had earlier accused Indian diplomats of involvement, prompting retaliatory expulsions. India insists Canada has not provided evidence to support these allegations. The diplomatic fallout continues to deepen the crisis between the nations.

The Met Office has issued multiple yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across the UK, with sub-zero temperatures reaching -7.5°C in Cumbria. Scotland, Wales, and northern England face up to 20 cm of snowfall in higher areas, while southwest England could see 10 cm on Dartmoor. Heavy rain and strong winds are expected over the weekend, raising flood concerns. Over 100 schools in Scotland remain closed. The UK Health Security Agency issued an amber cold weather alert, urging caution for vulnerable populations. The RAC and AA warn drivers of breakdown risks and advise checking forecasts before traveling.

Ukraine has reportedly fired British Storm Shadow cruise missiles at Russian military targets, marking the first use of these long-range weapons in the conflict. The move comes as the UK approved the missile use in response to Russia deploying North Korean troops. Debris from Storm Shadow missiles was found in Russia's Kursk region, with others intercepted over Krasnodar's Yeysk port. This follows Ukraine's use of US-supplied ATACMS missiles. President Zelensky continues urging Western nations to strengthen military aid. The UK’s decision highlights increasing tensions, with the issue dominating discussions at the G20 summit in Brazil.