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.

US President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Kash Patel, 44, as the next FBI director. Patel, a former national security aide and son of Indian immigrants, is known for his strong criticism of the FBI and Department of Justice. If confirmed, he pledges to shut down the FBI headquarters "on day one" and decentralize its operations nationwide. Patel’s career includes roles as a public defender, terrorism prosecutor, and chief of staff to the acting defense secretary. His nomination underscores Trump’s agenda of reshaping government institutions and replacing current director Christopher Wray before his term concludes.

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has threatened a 100% tariff on BRICS nations, including India, China, and Russia, if they attempt to replace the U.S. dollar or create a BRICS currency. Trump stated on Truth Social that such moves would face severe repercussions, urging BRICS nations to abandon de-dollarisation plans. While Russia and China explore alternatives to the dollar, India has opposed the idea. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar clarified that India supports pragmatic economic strategies without targeting the dollar. Trump’s warning follows the 2023 BRICS summit, where the viability of a shared currency was discussed.

Rebels have taken control of most of Aleppo, Syria's second-largest city, marking their first return since 2016. The offensive, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allies, resulted in the temporary withdrawal of Syrian forces, who plan a counteroffensive. Russia responded with airstrikes, reportedly killing 300+ people, including 20 civilians. Aleppo's airport and major roads are closed, displacing many residents. The UN expressed alarm, citing heavy civilian casualties, including children. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights attributed the rebels' rapid advance to weakened government allies due to Israeli strikes. This marks a significant challenge to Syria's government and Russia.

Bangladesh authorities arrested Hindu priest and ISKCON member Shyam Das Prabhu in Chattogram without an official warrant on Saturday. He was detained while visiting spiritual leader Chinmoy Krishna Das, previously arrested on sedition charges and denied bail. Radharamn Das, ISKCON Kolkata’s vice-president, condemned the arrests and revealed that an ISKCON center in Bhairav was vandalized. “No respite in sight,” he posted on X. These incidents have intensified concerns about the safety of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. ISKCON has called for justice and security for its members amid the escalating unrest.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged N.A.T.O. to guarantee protections for Kyiv-controlled areas, claiming it could halt the war's "hot stage." He hinted at regaining Russian-occupied territories diplomatically if such guarantees ensured Ukraine's security. This comes amid escalating tensions, including Russia's missile strikes on Ukraine's energy sector after U.S.-supplied missiles were used against Russian territory. Zelensky emphasized the need for firm measures to deter future Russian aggression. He also appointed Mykhailo Drapaty as Land Forces Commander to strengthen military leadership. Western leaders, including Antony Blinken and Emmanuel Macron, discussed sustained support for Ukraine as the conflict nears three years.

ISKCON has called for global prayer and kirtan on Sunday to advocate for the safety of religious minorities in Bangladesh. Following the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government, attacks on minorities, including vandalism of Hindu temples, have escalated. The recent arrest of former ISKCON member Chinmoy Krishna Das on sedition charges has intensified protests. ISKCON condemned the suppression and urged authorities to ensure citizens' safety. Countries like India, the UK, and the US have voiced concerns. ISKCON has demanded action against attackers, protection of minority rights, and restoration of harmony in Bangladesh.

Syrian rebels have taken control of the majority of Aleppo, marking a significant challenge to the Syrian government’s authority. The offensive, launched on Wednesday by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied factions, has resulted in over 300 deaths, including 20 civilians. For the first time since 2016, Russia launched airstrikes in Aleppo as part of the government’s counteroffensive. Aleppo's airport and key roads have been closed. The city, previously under government control, saw minimal resistance as regime forces withdrew. The UN has expressed concern over the impact on civilians amid rising violence.

The UK Parliament approved the Assisted Dying Bill, permitting terminally ill adults expected to die within six months to seek help in ending their lives. Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, who introduced the bill, celebrated the historic vote, calling it "a step towards dignity." Proponents, including campaigners in pink attire, highlighted stories of suffering, while opponents, including disability activists, warned of societal risks. The debate featured emotional speeches, including one from MP Kit Malthouse, who criticized NHS burdens. Despite passing, the bill faces further scrutiny. Outside Parliament, tears of both joy and fear marked a day that divided opinion nationwide.

A woman bypassed multiple security checkpoints at New York's JFK Airport and boarded a Paris-bound Delta Airlines flight without a boarding pass or ID. TSA confirmed she cleared security screening with no prohibited items. Discovered in the aircraft bathroom near the end of the 7-hour flight, the stowaway prompted French police intervention upon landing. Passengers were informed of a "serious security issue" only after the flight landed in Paris. Delta Airlines and TSA have launched investigations into the breach, calling safety their top priority. Details of how the breach occurred and the woman’s arrest status remain unclear.