US President-Elect Donald Trump has nominated Kash Patel, an Indian-origin loyalist, as the new FBI director. Patel, a key figure in the Russia investigation, is known for his strong support of Trump and controversial views. He has vowed to pursue Trump’s enemies in the "Deep State" and the media. Patel has also called for cleaning out federal officials who opposed Trump. If confirmed by the Senate, Patel would replace Chris Wray, whom Trump criticized. His nomination has raised concerns among Trump’s critics, fearing further political interference within the FBI.

At least 54 people have died after a boat sank in Nigeria's River Niger on Friday. The boat, carrying over 200 passengers, was traveling from Kogi state to Niger state. Divers are still searching for survivors, but hopes are fading. Twenty-four people were rescued, but many others are missing. The cause of the accident is unclear, and there are reports that many passengers weren’t wearing life jackets. Local officials say it is difficult to confirm the exact number of people on board due to a lack of records. This is the third boat disaster in Nigeria in the last two months.

Belgium has enacted the world’s first law providing sex workers with maternity leave, pensions, and official employment contracts. Effective December 1, the legislation offers social coverage, health insurance, and workplace protections. Each workspace must feature alarm systems for safety, and workers can refuse clients or services without risking dismissal. This follows Belgium's 2022 decriminalization of sex work. Victoria, president of UTSOPI, highlighted its impact on safety and dignity, while critics warn it may not prevent exploitation. Human Rights Watch called it a "radical step." The law emerged from protests demanding better support during the Covid pandemic.

A Canadian court granted bail to Khalistani terrorist Arsh Dalla, leader of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force, despite India's extradition request. Dalla, a native of Punjab’s Moga district, faces over 50 charges, including murder, extortion, and terror financing. Arrested in October in Ontario, Dalla was previously injured in an accidental shooting. Authorities discovered weapons during searches. Delhi alleges Dalla’s links with Pakistan’s ISI and continues to push for his extradition. The next hearing is set for February 24, 2025, while India intensifies diplomatic efforts to bring him to justice.

Jay Shah, 35, has assumed the role of ICC chairman, succeeding Greg Barclay. As the youngest chair in ICC history, Shah's rise follows a transformative stint as BCCI secretary, during which he championed equal pay for women cricketers, hosted the first Women's Premier League, and strengthened India's global cricket dominance. His tenure also oversaw record-breaking media rights deals and pandemic-era IPL continuity. As ICC chief, Shah faces challenges such as resolving revenue-sharing concerns, fostering associate nations, and expanding women’s cricket. With a proven track record, Shah is expected to lead global cricket into a promising new era.

Seven Maoists, including top commander Bhadru, were killed in an encounter with security forces in Mulugu district, Telangana, on Sunday. The Greyhounds forces spotted the Maoists in the Chalpaka forest early in the morning and ordered them to surrender, but they fired at the forces, triggering the exchange. The deceased included six others: Egolapu Mallaiah, Mussaki Deval, Mussaki Jamuna, Jai Singh, Kishore, and Kamesh. The Maoists were armed with AK-47s, G3, and INSAS rifles. This is the first significant encounter in years as Maoists try to revive activities in the region.

Kolkata Police arrested former Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Salim Matabbar from a hotel on November 29, 2024, for living in India on fake documents. Meanwhile, four Bangladeshi nationals were arrested in Nadia for illegal entry. Amid rising tensions, J.N. Ray Hospital in Kolkata announced it would no longer treat Bangladeshi patients, citing historical grievances. The West Bengal Medical Council opposed this, emphasizing the need for non-discriminatory treatment. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee declined to comment on the matter, saying it’s a national issue, while BJP leader Dilip Ghosh criticized her silence on Bangladesh-related issues.

  Munni Saha, a senior Bangladesh journalist, was mobbed in Dhaka's Kawran Bazar area on December 1, 2024. The mob accused her of "trying to make Bangladesh part of India" as she was surrounded and heckled. Police rescued her after she suffered a panic attack, later releasing her due to her health and status as a woman journalist. Saha, previously charged following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, faces growing criticism amid concerns over minority Hindu rights in Bangladesh.

Prominent Bangladeshi journalist Munni Saha was mobbed in Dhaka’s Karwan Bazar on Saturday, accused of being an Indian agent and supporting ousted PM Sheikh Hasina. Her car was intercepted by a crowd, prompting police intervention. Taken to Tejgaon Police Station and later the Dhaka Metropolitan Detective Branch office for safety, Saha was not arrested but suffered a panic attack. Police clarified she faces four cases and must seek bail. The incident highlights rising harassment of journalists under caretaker PM Muhammad Yunus. Protests against media outlets like Prothom Alo and Daily Star continue amidst intensified scrutiny.

Syrian rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have captured most of Aleppo, including its airport, in a swift offensive that began Wednesday. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad condemned the attack, pledging to defend Syria's stability and launch a counter-offensive. Insurgents also seized four towns in Hama province, raising concerns over the regime's military preparedness. Syria's armed forces acknowledged losses, redeploying troops to counter the rebels. The U.S. urged de-escalation and political solutions, stating its non-involvement in the offensive. The situation marks a significant blow to Assad's control in northern Syria, sparking fears of further escalation.