Syria’s transitional PM Mohammad al-Bashir called for "stability and calm" after President Bashar al-Assad was toppled in a rebel offensive. Bashir pledged reconstruction, while Islamist leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani vowed accountability for war crimes. The fall of Assad sparked a search for thousands missing in detention centers. Meanwhile, Israel launched extensive strikes targeting military sites, citing threats from Iranian weapons transfers. UN officials criticized Israel’s actions, urging restraint. The US demanded an inclusive government to prevent terrorism. The Syrian conflict, spanning 14 years, has displaced millions and killed 500,000 people, leaving the nation grappling with uncertainty and reconstruction challenges.  

Conservative MP Richard Holden proposed banning first-cousin marriages in the UK, citing public health concerns and risks of genetic disorders. He argued the practice also impacts women’s freedom in communities with strict honor codes. Independent MP Iqbal Mohamed opposed the ban, deeming it ineffective and advocating for genetic screening and health education programs instead. Mohamed emphasized addressing the cultural and health aspects of cousin marriages without stigmatization. Downing Street acknowledged expert concerns but stated no plans for legislative changes. Current UK law bans marriages between siblings, parents, or children but permits cousin marriages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu testified in Tel Aviv’s district court, denying bribery, fraud, and breach of trust charges. His lawyer, Amit Hadad, labeled the trial a "political witch-hunt," claiming prosecutors pursued Netanyahu rather than a crime. Netanyahu emphasized his political legacy and dismissed allegations of accepting gifts as "absurd." The trial occurs during Israel's Gaza conflict and heightened tensions in Syria. Outside court, supporters and critics protested, reflecting the nation's divisions. Critics link his judicial reforms to his legal troubles. The trial, expected to last over a year, could further polarize Israeli politics.

As Russia's nuclear icebreaker fleet marks its 65th anniversary, reports suggest that Rosatom may build four non-nuclear icebreakers in India. Analysts attribute this to India's growing maritime ambitions and Western sanctions limiting Russia's access to resources and technology. The estimated $713 million project aligns with Russia's strategy to navigate Arctic trade routes. The nuclear-powered fleet, owned by Rosatom subsidiary FSUE Atomflot, is vital for Arctic navigation, including the Northeast Passage. This initiative reflects Russia's focus on global partnerships for maritime advancements.

Russia has vowed to continue its war in Ukraine until its objectives are achieved, either through military operations or negotiations. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated that no talks are currently underway. Russia's spy chief, Sergei Naryshkin, claimed that Ukraine is close to collapse and that Russia holds the upper hand. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy suggested a ceasefire if unoccupied territories gain NATO membership. Incoming US President Donald Trump called for an "immediate ceasefire" and urged both sides to negotiate peace. The war has caused devastating losses, with heavy casualties reported on both sides. The conflict remains unresolved.

Syrian rebels have appointed Mohammed al-Bashir as interim prime minister following President Bashar al-Assad's fall. Al-Bashir previously governed rebel-held areas during Assad's rule. Meanwhile, Turkey, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt accused Israel of exploiting Syria's turmoil. The Israeli military admitted its troops are operating beyond the buffer zone near the Golan Heights. Rebels in Damascus claimed they discovered over 40 bodies showing signs of torture. The US plans to discuss Syria's crisis in an upcoming G7 meeting, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledging support for a transparent government. Turkey also opened a new border crossing for returning refugees.

Luigi Mangione, 26, was arrested for the murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York. Police found him at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania with a ghost gun, ammunition, and fake IDs. Mangione, from Maryland, was a valedictorian and a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania. His arrest revealed handwritten notes expressing anger towards corporate America. A former data engineer, Mangione had no prior arrests but had reportedly lost contact with family and friends recently. His family expressed shock, offering prayers for all involved. Police described the arrest as peaceful, though Mangione has since stopped cooperating.

Israel has conducted over 300 airstrikes across Syria since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime on Sunday, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Targets include military facilities, weapon depots, and airports in cities like Damascus, Aleppo, and Hama. Israel says the strikes aim to prevent weapons from reaching extremists during Syria's transitional period. The IDF denied entering Syrian territory, asserting its actions remain within the buffer zone. Syrian facilities have reportedly faced significant destruction, with observers calling it a blow to the Syrian army’s capabilities. Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasized the country’s commitment to defending its borders.

Luigi Nicholas Mangione, 26, has been charged with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Police arrested Mangione in Pennsylvania after a McDonald's employee spotted him with a gun, mask, and writings linking him to the shooting. Mangione is set to be extradited to New York. Police found a document with anti-corporate sentiments. Thompson, 50, was killed outside a hotel last week in a premeditated attack. His death occurred just before UnitedHealth Group’s annual investor conference. Mangione’s family expressed shock, offering prayers to Thompson’s family.

Israel carried out over 100 air strikes across Syria, targeting military sites, including a suspected chemical weapons centre. Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed the attacks in Damascus and other areas. Israel said the strikes were to prevent weapons from reaching extremists after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.   The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons urged Syria to secure chemical stockpiles. Israeli PM Netanyahu called the regime’s collapse a "historic day" and promised peace with Syrians seeking good relations. The strikes come amid regional tensions following the Gaza war and cross-border attacks on Israel.