Syrian rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa (Abu Mohammed al-Jolani) pledged to shut down Assad-era prisons, including the infamous Saydnaya facility, following Bashar al-Assad's ousting. Jolani’s Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) coalition toppled Assad’s 54-year rule in a swift offensive, forcing him to flee to Russia. Videos surfaced showing thousands of detainees freed from Saydnaya, infamous for torture and killings. Jolani vowed to pursue those involved in war crimes and dissolve Assad’s security forces. Concerns over chemical weapon stockpiles persist, with international groups aiding in securing sites. The U.S. welcomed Jolani’s statements, urging actions against potential misuse of chemical assets.

Russia has advised its citizens to avoid travelling to the United States, Canada, and European Union nations, citing safety risks. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said worsening relations with the US pose serious dangers for Russians abroad. She warned of potential harassment or detention in these countries. The US has similarly cautioned its citizens against visiting Russia, citing risks of detention and arbitrary law enforcement. Tensions between the two countries have escalated due to the ongoing Ukraine war and increased military aid from the US to Ukraine. Both nations accuse each other of politically motivated detentions.

A £46m national memorial to Queen Elizabeth II will be constructed in St James’s Park, near Buckingham Palace. The memorial aims to reflect the Queen's extraordinary life and will provide a space for public reflection. Leading artists, architects, and engineers are invited to submit designs for the project. The memorial will include the Blue Bridge and surrounding areas. A two-stage competition will select the winning design, with submissions due by January 20, 2025. The final design will be revealed in the summer, and construction will begin soon after.

Syrian rebels, led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have burned the tomb of Hafez al-Assad, the late president and father of ousted leader Bashar al-Assad, in the family’s hometown of Qardaha. The attack is part of the rebels' efforts to overthrow the Assad dynasty after 54 years of rule. Meanwhile, in Damascus, daily life is slowly returning to normal, with shops reopening and people no longer fearing regime loyalists. The new rebel leadership has vowed to ensure Syria’s religious and cultural diversity and begin the process of rebuilding the country.

Luigi Mangione, 26, was arrested for allegedly killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan. Police matched his fingerprints on a bottle and snack wrapper found at the scene. A 3D-printed gun found with Mangione also matched shell casings at the crime site. The casings were engraved with words criticizing the insurance industry. Mangione, an Ivy League graduate, was caught at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania after a week-long search. Denied bail, he allegedly wrote a manifesto blaming health insurance companies for greed. Investigators believe his anger at the industry motivated the crime. He faces multiple charges, including murder.

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has become the first person in history to reach a net worth of $400 billion, according to Bloomberg. His wealth surged by $20 billion after SpaceX’s valuation rose to $350 billion following a deal to sell $1.25 billion in insider shares. Tesla’s stock also hit a record high, closing at $424.77. Musk’s ventures, including xAI and Neuralink, have seen significant growth. His support for Donald Trump’s presidential win boosted his businesses further. Musk now holds key roles in several companies and will assist in a new government efficiency department under the Trump administration.

Israel has launched over 400 strikes in Syria, targeting key military sites, following the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad. The strikes destroyed 70-80% of Syria's strategic military assets. The Israeli military said it hit weapons stockpiles, naval vessels, anti-aircraft systems, and missile facilities in Damascus and other cities. Missiles with ranges of 80-190 km were among the destroyed assets. Prime Minister Netanyahu called Assad’s removal a “historic day” and claimed it weakens Iran’s influence. Assad fled to Russia after rebels toppled his regime, ending his 24-year rule. The strikes aim to prevent weapons from reaching terrorist groups.

Bashar al-Assad’s regime profited $5B annually from Captagon, a potent amphetamine fueling Middle Eastern drug markets and warfare. Dubbed the "poor man's cocaine," Captagon accounted for 80% of global supply, with production linked to Assad's family and military. Recent reports indicate a 90% drop in production after the collapse of Assad’s regime, with operations shifting to small compounds in Lebanon under Iran-backed Hezbollah. Experts warn of a potential resurgence, as Iraqi militias may fill the void. Captagon’s addictive properties and role in combat make it a tool of both revenue and terror, raising global security concerns.

Bangladesh has confirmed 88 cases of violence against minorities, primarily targeting Hindus, since August, with 70 arrests reported. Interim government official Shafiqul Alam revealed the data, noting incidents in regions like Sunamganj and Gazipur. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, during his Dhaka visit, highlighted concerns over the safety of minorities, urging stronger protections. Nationwide protests erupted in India on Human Rights Day, demanding international intervention. ISKCON criticized global inaction, citing threats against Hindus and temples in Bangladesh. The Bangladeshi government promised investigations and measures to ensure minority rights and harmony amidst rising tensions.

The Israeli military launched 350 airstrikes across Syria in 48 hours, targeting key military sites, including al Bayda and Latakia naval ports, anti-aircraft batteries, airfields, and weapons production facilities in Damascus, Homs, Tartus, Latakia, and Palmyra. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the strikes aim to prevent weapons from reaching jihadists while ensuring Israel's security. Footage shared by the Israel Defence Forces showed intense bombings at Syrian naval ports. Security sources and Sky News reported strikes in Qamishli. Netanyahu emphasized no interference in Syria’s internal affairs but reiterated Israel’s commitment to safeguarding its security.