Israel’s recent airstrikes in eastern Lebanon have killed 40 people and injured 53, reported Lebanon’s health ministry. The attacks targeted areas around Baalbek, intensifying conflict with Hezbollah in the Beqaa Valley. Israeli forces also struck Beirut’s suburbs and an area near Lebanon’s international airport. Meanwhile, Gaza’s northern regions faced escalating bombardments as Israeli ground troops advanced into Beit Lahiya, aiming to disrupt Hamas operations. Jan Egeland, head of the Norwegian Refugee Council, criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza, urging a ceasefire and warning of the humanitarian crisis. He described scenes of "absolute despair" in Gaza's north, calling for urgent peace efforts.

The diplomatic tensions between India and Canada have escalated, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India reporting heightened threats to Indian diplomats in Canada. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal revealed that Indian diplomats in Ottawa are under surveillance, which India considers a violation of diplomatic norms. Jaiswal highlighted Canada’s alleged failure to provide security for Indian consular staff, noting recent threats, harassment, and a temple attack in Brampton. India has condemned the actions, urging Canada to uphold the rule of law. Relations soured after Canada’s accusation of India’s involvement in Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s death.

North Korean soldiers deployed by Russia to aid in the Ukraine conflict reportedly accessed unrestricted internet and were found consuming adult content, according to a Financial Times report. More than 7,000 North Korean soldiers, trained in Russia’s Far East, are stationed near the Ukraine border, armed with AK-12 rifles and mortars. The Ukrainian Defense Intelligence confirmed their first skirmish with Ukrainian forces. Despite the report, U.S. Defense Department spokesperson Lt. Col. Charlie Dietz said there is no official confirmation of North Korean soldiers' internet activities, leaving further details on their web usage unclear.

Canada has banned Australia Today shortly after the outlet broadcasted a joint press conference featuring India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and his Australian counterpart Penny Wong in Sydney. The conference, where Jaishankar addressed ongoing diplomatic tensions with Canada, was shared on Australia Today's social media platforms, which were subsequently blocked in Canada. India expressed surprise at Canada’s actions, criticizing Ottawa’s approach to freedom of speech as hypocritical. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted that the decision further underscores Canada’s tolerance of anti-India elements within its borders.

The US Federal Reserve is set to announce its latest interest rate decision today at 14:00 EST, with experts predicting a second consecutive cut as inflation slows. However, the central bank must also consider the potential impact of President-elect Donald Trump's policies, including higher import taxes, which could fuel inflation. Trump's election victory sent the US dollar soaring by 1.65% against other major currencies. Concerns also surround Trump's potential influence on the Fed's decisions, given his past criticism of Chair Jerome Powell and the bank's independence. The Fed's decision will be closely watched by investors and economists alike.

Following Kamala Harris’s defeat in the presidential election to Donald Trump, US President Joe Biden praised her efforts, stating she would "continue to be a champion for all Americans." In a statement issued hours after Trump was officially declared the 47th President, Biden highlighted Harris's historic campaign, noting her dedication and vision for a fairer and more just America. Biden commended her leadership under challenging circumstances and emphasized her strong moral compass and commitment to expanding opportunities for all. Harris’s campaign, he added, exemplified the values of purpose and determination in the pursuit of a better nation.

Donald Trump's presidential win has sparked concerns about his energy policies, particularly regarding renewable energy. Trump plans to end renewable energy projects on day one, targeting offshore wind farms and potentially eliminating or reducing tax credits for renewable energy projects. This move may hinder America's ability to cut emissions and fulfill commitments under the Paris climate accord, which Trump aims to exit. Trump's stance on solar tariffs may slow solar deployments, and his administration's budget cuts could impact the Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Industry experts predict a mixed impact on solar energy.

President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to end wars globally, particularly highlighting his ability to stop the Russia-Ukraine conflict. During his victory speech, Trump stated, "I'm not going to start wars, I'm going to stop wars". Geopolitical experts speculate that Trump's focus may be on Ukraine and Israel. Trump's previous administration had a mixed record on Russia, with both imposing sanctions and attempting to improve ties. Trump claims he can end the war within 24 hours of taking office, but details on his plan remain scarce. 

President-elect Donald Trump is set to begin selecting his cabinet members in the coming days and weeks, according to his transition team. Co-chairs Linda McMahon and Howard Lutnick announced that Trump will be presented with a diverse range of experts to choose from, with the goal of assembling a team that will implement policies making life more affordable, safe, and secure for Americans. The transition team's focus is on finding personnel who align with Trump's vision for the country, marking a significant step in shaping his administration's direction.

Kamala Harris called Donald Trump to concede defeat in the U.S. presidential election and congratulated him on his victory. A senior adviser shared that Harris emphasized the importance of a peaceful transfer of power and urged unity, stressing the need to represent all Americans. Trump, who comfortably surpassed the required 270 electoral votes, addressed his supporters in Palm Beach, celebrating a "magnificent victory" and pledging to "make America great again." He reiterated his plans to tackle immigration and promised a "golden age" for the nation. World leaders, including PM Modi, Ukraine’s Zelenskyy and Israel’s Netanyahu, extended early congratulations.