Shelter charity reveals an alarming 14% increase from last year, estimating that over 300,000 people in England will experience homelessness this Christmas, mainly in temporary accommodation. The surge is attributed to a lack of social housing and unaffordable rents. Polly Neate, Shelter's CEO, condemns chronic underinvestment. A government spokesman defends efforts, citing a £2bn investment to combat homelessness. Recent records highlight a concerning rise in households and children in temporary accommodation. Personal stories underscore the mental health toll, as families cope with noise, administrative errors, and deteriorating living conditions.            

In a diplomatic standoff, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak maintains support for the two-state solution, countering Israeli Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely's firm denial. Sunak states, "Our longstanding position remains that a two-state solution is the right outcome." Expressing concern over the conflict, he emphasizes the loss of innocent lives and urges a swift resolution. Sunak, while acknowledging Israel's right to self-defense, reveals, "I told Prime Minister Netanyahu that Israel must protect civilians." Hotovely's dismissal of a two-state solution raises tensions, highlighting the complex dynamics in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. The international community closely watches diplomatic developments.

The European Union's long-delayed Entry/Exit Scheme (EES) is scheduled to launch on October 6, 2024, requiring British travelers to submit fingerprints and facial biometrics. Despite previous rejections by France and delays, a confirmed introduction date has been set. EES aims to streamline border procedures but poses challenges at busy ports like Dover and Eurotunnel, where processing times may increase significantly. Member states must confirm readiness by August, citing terrorism concerns as pressure mounts for timely implementation. The subsequent requirement for an online permit, Etias (European Travel Information and Authorization System), is expected approximately six months later, with potential enforcement by autumn 2025.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) unintentionally shot and killed three hostages during a rescue operation in Shejaiya, Gaza. Yotam Haim, 28, Samer Talalka, 22, and Alon Shamriz, 26, were misidentified as threats. The IDF, expressing deep remorse, is investigating the incident. Amid a march in Tel Aviv urging the government to secure the release of over 100 remaining hostages, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labeled the deaths an "unbearable tragedy." White House spokesperson John Kirby called it a "tragic mistake," emphasizing imperfect visibility into the operation. The incident underscores the complex challenges in resolving the hostage situation amid ongoing conflict in the region.

In a shocking incident at the Keretsky village council headquarters in western Ukraine, a councillor tossed hand grenades during a meeting, injuring 26 people. The video shared by police captures the moment as the man, dressed in black, releases three grenades, causing explosions amid a heated discussion. Six individuals are in grave condition. Authorities are attempting to resuscitate the perpetrator. Access to weaponry, a consequence of the conflict with Russia, remains widespread in Ukraine. The motives behind this alarming act within the council remain under investigation.

In a tense escalation, multiple rockets were intercepted over central Jerusalem on Friday, marking the first attack since October 30. Israeli military reported six launches towards Jerusalem, successfully intercepting three over populated areas. No injuries reported. Despite international calls for restraint, Israel's assault on Gaza persists, with thousands dead and widespread destruction. The conflict began after Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7. The retaliatory offensive has left much of Gaza in ruins, claiming over 18,700 lives, mostly women and children. Gaza militants continue to launch rockets, with the majority intercepted by Israeli air defenses.

Israel reopens an aid crossing into Gaza as part of its military offensive against Hamas. The move follows the United States urging restraint in the conflict. The health ministry in Gaza reports over 18,700 casualties, predominantly women and children. Israel vows to destroy Hamas and bring home hostages, with ongoing fierce fighting. Concerns rise over civilian casualties, prompting Israel to temporarily allow aid through a second crossing. The US emphasizes the need for civilian protection, while the UN General Assembly supports a non-binding ceasefire resolution. Regional tensions escalate as Yemen's Huthi rebels target shipping, claiming to pressure Israel.

Prince Harry celebrates a legal victory as a UK high court judge rules that the Daily Mirror extensively hacked his phone from 2003 to 2009. In a significant blow to media practices, the judge acknowledges illegal information gathering and cover-ups by Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN). The Duke of Sussex hails the decision as a "great day for truth" and calls for authorities to investigate charges against the company. The judgment exposes widespread unlawful behavior, leading to £140,600 in damages for Harry. The case sheds light on press intrusion and prompts calls for accountability in British media.

Two cargo ships in the Red Sea were attacked by missiles launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, according to the US. The vessels, including one owned by German company Hapag-Lloyd, were struck in the strategic Bab El Mandab strait. The Houthis, backed by Iran, declared support for Hamas, targeting ships in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The US acknowledges the attacks and emphasizes the Houthis as a "material threat" to shipping. Pressure mounts on the US to respond, but targeting Houthi sites may risk broader conflict. The Bab El Mandab Strait, crucial for global trade, has witnessed previous attacks, impacting insurance premiums and shipping routes.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government is exploring a potential crackdown on social media access for children under 16, including possible bans, according to sources familiar with early-stage discussions. Ministers plan to launch a consultation in January to gather evidence on potential harms to kids from using platforms like Facebook and Twitter. While bans are under discussion, measures like improved parental controls have not been ruled out. Sunak's team says they are "looking broadly" at ways to better protect children online. The UK recently passed an Online Safety Act forcing sites to boost protections, especially for minors. Any policy changes remain speculative for now as talks are in early days.