Home Secretary James Cleverly faces increasing demands to resign after making insensitive jokes about spiking his wife's drink with a date rape drug at a Downing Street reception. Despite apologizing, critics argue the comments undermine government efforts to combat spiking. Jemima Olchawski from the Fawcett Society calls the remarks "sickening," emphasizing the need for trust in addressing violence against women. Shadow Minister Alex Davies-Jones rejects the tired excuse of "It was a joke," urging cultural change. The comments overshadow government messages on spiking, sparking a call for a zero-tolerance approach to misogyny from its frontbench.

Fears rise for 185 Rohingya refugees stranded in the Indian Ocean as their boat's engine fails. UNHCR warns of a desperate situation, with one already dead and others in critical condition. The refugees, fleeing Bangladesh's overcrowded camps, sought safety near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Thousands attempt risky sea journeys annually, seeking refuge in Malaysia or Indonesia. UNHCR calls for timely rescue efforts, emphasizing the preventable tragedy. The plight highlights the need for regional states to deploy search and rescue capacities to avert human disasters. Over 570 reported dead or missing at sea in the region since last year.

Over the weekend, 14 Israeli soldiers lost their lives in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, bringing the total Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) casualties to 152 since the ground operation's commencement on October 20. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu spoke with US President Biden, emphasizing Israel's commitment to pursuing the war until all objectives are met. The US anticipates a shift to lower-intensity fighting, targeting Hamas leadership and infrastructure. Despite the UN's failure to call for a humanitarian ceasefire, a resolution for increased aid to Gaza was passed. The conflict's toll includes over 20,000 deaths in Gaza and 1,200 in Israel.

Yekaterina Duntsova, an independent politician aiming to end the war with Ukraine, has been barred from running in Russia's upcoming presidential election. The electoral commission, citing 100 "mistakes" on her application, unanimously rejected her candidacy three days after submission. The decision signals a lack of tolerance for dissent in the campaign, with critics viewing it as a swift rebuke to Putin opposition. Duntsova, vowing to appeal at the Supreme Court, had emphasized ending the Ukraine conflict and freeing political prisoners. Putin, amid limited opposition, remains the sole registered candidate for the March 2024 election.            

Ukraine is set to celebrate Christmas on 25 December for the first time, breaking from the Orthodox tradition of 7 January aligned with the Julian calendar. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's July-signed law officially recognizes this shift to the Western, Gregorian calendar, a symbolic step distancing Ukraine from Russian influence amid the ongoing conflict. Embraced by the church and citizens, the change signifies Ukraine's alignment with its European aspirations. Kira Rudik of the Golos Zmin Party underscores its significance, stating it marks a cultural and festive synchronization with the democratic, progressive world.

Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem have been cancelled this year as the town mourns the devastation in Gaza. Usually full of tourists, Manger Square now stands "grey and empty" said one shopkeeper. Pastor Munther Isaac created a nativity scene with baby Jesus lying in rubble, saying "If Jesus was born today, he'd be born under the rubble of Gaza." The mayor said Bethlehem's economy has "crashed" with tourism wiped out. Shop owner Nabil Giacaman lamented having "zero" visitors after reservations were cancelled due to the conflict. With festivities called off across the Holy Land, Christian leaders condemned the violence, with one priest in Bethlehem saying "We pray each day for Gaza and the victims on both sides."

President Biden emphasized civilian protection during a phone call with PM Netanyahu as Israeli forces conducted new strikes in Gaza. The UN Security Council passed a resolution for humanitarian aid but stopped short of calling for a ceasefire. Biden, after the call, stated, "I did not ask for a ceasefire," highlighting discussions on Israel's military objectives and the release of remaining hostages. UN Secretary-General Guterres insists a "humanitarian ceasefire" is crucial for effective aid delivery, increasing pressure on Israel to grant access. The conflict has displaced 1.9 million in Gaza, amplifying calls for international intervention.          

The Israel-Hamas conflict escalates with over 200 reported deaths in Gaza within 24 hours, as Israeli forces persist in their offensive despite a UN Security Council resolution for increased aid. UN Secretary-General Guterres criticizes Israel for obstructing aid deliveries, while civilians in Gaza urgently call for a ceasefire amid alleged massacres. Israel's goal to eliminate Hamas and demands for hostages' release heighten tensions. The war has displaced nearly two million people, amplifying concerns over the worsening humanitarian crisis. Outside Gaza, maritime tensions rise with a drone strike off India, fueling fears of broader regional escalation amid ongoing cross-border clashes.

Ukraine passes law permitting medical marijuana use for treating oncological diseases and post-traumatic stress disorders resulting from the ongoing Russian war. The parliament, with 284 votes in favor, approves the bill after a year-long debate. President Zelensky, a proponent, emphasizes fair legalization for therapeutic use. The law takes effect in six months, allowing hemp plant circulation for medical, industrial, and scientific purposes. Health Ministry to define specific conditions and medicines. Zelensky urges global best practices for Ukrainian relief from war's pain. 

Israel is considering flooding the Hamas tunnel network in Gaza with seawater, a move experts warn could lead to an ecological disaster. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have installed pumps in Al-Shati refugee camp for this purpose. Environmental concerns arise as seawater may seep into Gaza's aquifer, affecting drinking water for 2.3 million residents. Experts, including Mark Zeitoun, caution that such an action could ruin living conditions and potentially violate international humanitarian and environmental laws. The UN Environment Programme emphasizes the need to protect Gaza's fragile ecosystem and the coastal aquifer.