Turkey has rejected Britain's bid to send two minehunter ships to Kyiv through its waters, saying it will refuse passage to any military vessels linked to Russia or Ukraine for as long as the war continues. "Our pertinent allies have been duly apprised that the mine-hunting ships donated to Ukraine by the United Kingdom will not be allowed to pass through the Turkish Straits to the Black Sea as long as the war continues," the Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan's office said. Turkey says it has an "international obligation not to allow ships belonging to either 'belligerent party' in the conflict to use its Bosphorus and Dardanelles straits."

At least 95 people were killed and scores wounded in twin bomb explosions at an event commemorating the fourth anniversary of the assassination of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani in Kerman, Iran on Wednesday. The bombings struck a procession near Soleimani's tomb, with videos showing bodies strewn on the streets and ambulances rushing to the scene. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed a "harsh response" to the "terrorist attack", the deadliest in Iran in 42 years. No groups have claimed responsibility yet, but suspicion may fall on Arab separatists and Sunni jihadists who have targeted civilians in Iran before. Soleimani was Iran's most influential military figure before being killed by a US drone strike in 2020. Wednesday's attack comes amid heightened tensions in the region after the deputy leader of Hamas was killed in an apparent Israeli drone strike in Lebanon.

In a harrowing incident, four individuals were reportedly stabbed on a train at Akihabara station in Tokyo. The attack occurred on the Yamanote loop line, a major transit route in the city. The train services were temporarily suspended due to the disturbance. NHK reported that a woman wielding a knife was taken into custody by the Metropolitan Police Department. The injured victims were promptly taken to the hospital, and their conditions remain undisclosed. Investigations are ongoing to determine the motive behind the attack. This alarming incident adds to Japan's recent challenges, including earthquakes and a plane collision at Tokyo's main airport.

Amidst rising tensions, Mossad Chief David Barnea pledges to make Hamas pay for attacks on Israel. Following the drone strike in Lebanon, attributed to Israel, Barnea declared, "We are settling the score with the murderers who descended upon the Gaza envelope on October 7." Speaking at the funeral of former Mossad chief Zvi Zamir, he affirmed a commitment to pursue those responsible, drawing parallels with the Munich massacre aftermath. The strike killed Hamas Deputy Chief Saleh al-Aruri, escalating hostilities. Israel remains on high alert for potential escalation with Hezbollah. The region witnesses heightened tensions after months of conflict.            

Two explosions near the grave of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani on the anniversary of his death resulted in over 100 deaths and numerous injuries. Russian President Vladimir Putin conveyed condolences, denouncing the "cruelty" of the attacks in a letter to Iran's leadership. Putin stated, "The killing of peaceful people visiting the cemetery is shocking in its cruelty and cynicism." The incident unfolded as visitors gathered at the cemetery to commemorate Soleimani's demise in a US drone strike in Iraq. The tragic event underscores ongoing tensions in the region, with Putin's condemnation highlighting the global concern. Investigations are underway to determine the perpetrators and motives behind the attacks.

Starting January 1, 2024, the UK implements changes to student visas, barring most dependents, except for postgraduate students. International students must now plan ahead for family inclusion, with restrictions introduced to align students with educational goals before seeking work visas. While current students with family in the UK can continue until their visa expires, those starting courses from 2024 onward face the new regulations. After graduation, students can apply for work rights, but family inclusion depends on obtaining a work visa. Alternative options like the Standard Visitor Visa emerge, offering a 6-month stay for family support. Adherence to immigration rules is crucial for successful student-family stays.

In a serious incident, an Israeli attack took the life of Hamas's deputy chief, Saleh al-Aruri, raising concerns of a bigger conflict. Israel is on high alert, stating it's "prepared for any scenario." Hamas promises retaliation, while Hezbollah condemns the attack. The international community worries about the situation escalating, and the UN plans a meeting to discuss recent events. Palestinian Prime Minister Shtayyeh warns of potential "risks and consequences." Leaders worldwide, including France's Macron, urge caution. With tensions high, there are fears that the Israel-Hamas conflict could extend beyond the region. The situation remains precarious, demanding international attention and diplomatic efforts.

Two explosions near the grave of General Qasem Soleimani in Kerman, Iran, resulted in 73 fatalities and 170 injuries during a gathering marking the anniversary of his 2020 killing. Described as a "terrorist attack" by Kerman's deputy governor, the blasts intensified tensions in the Middle East. Tasnim news agency reported remote-controlled bombs, with the ISNA agency stating the explosions occurred ten minutes apart. Soleimani, a revered figure in Iran, led the Revolutionary Guard's elite Quds Force and was killed in a US drone strike. The incident follows the recent Beirut drone strike killing Hamas's Saleh al-Aruri.

Turkey announces the detainment of 34 individuals, accusing them of planning abductions and spying on behalf of Israel's Mossad. Turkish officials state the suspects were targeting Palestinians in Turkey. The move follows President Erdogan's recent warning against potential Israeli actions on Hamas figures in Turkey. Tensions between Turkey and Israel have escalated since the Gaza war, with Erdogan criticizing Israeli leaders. The arrests aim to prevent foreign intelligence activities on Turkish soil without proper authorization. Periodic raids against suspected operatives contribute to the strained relations, impacting the once-thawing ties between the two nations.

The longest doctors' strike in NHS history is starting as junior doctors across England stage a 6-day walkout. Thousands of junior doctors, nearly half of the NHS doctor workforce, are expected to participate beginning 07:00 GMT today. NHS leaders fear the strike will severely disrupt routine services in some areas. This action follows failed pay talks between the government and British Medical Association last month. The BMA says doctors need better remuneration and value. Ahead of the strike, NHS England's medical director warned this stoppage during an already challenging winter with high flu and COVID rates will be "very difficult" for the overburdened health service.