U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has appointed former Democratic congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard as the new Director of National Intelligence. Announced on November 13, Trump praised Gabbard’s “fearless spirit” and extensive experience, expressing confidence that she would lead the intelligence community effectively. Gabbard, a military veteran and former presidential candidate, is known for her independent political stance and strong national security views. Trump emphasized her commitment to safeguarding constitutional rights and achieving peace through strength. Gabbard’s appointment reflects Trump’s bipartisan approach, alongside Senator Marco Rubio’s nomination as Secretary of State, indicating a diverse cabinet under his administration.

An Israeli airstrike hit southern Beirut, Lebanon, shortly after Israel issued an evacuation warning to residents in Hezbollah-controlled areas. The strike targeted facilities associated with the Iran-backed group Hezbollah, intensifying Israel's military campaign, which has escalated since September. Avichay Adraee, an Israeli military spokesperson, urged civilians to evacuate specific neighborhoods, warning they were near Hezbollah assets that would soon be targeted. Images from the site showed plumes of smoke rising over the Shouaifat al-Omrousiya and Ghobeiry areas, as the region faces ongoing tension over Hezbollah’s presence and activity in Lebanon.

A C.I.A. official, Asif W. Rahman, has been charged with leaking classified U.S. intelligence regarding Israel’s potential military response to an Iranian missile strike. Rahman, arrested in Cambodia by the F.B.I., faces two counts under the Espionage Act for unauthorized transmission of national defense information. The documents, originating from the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, detail sensitive satellite imagery and intelligence on Israeli military assets possibly intended for use in a strike on Iran. The leak underscores U.S. surveillance of close allies and has prompted a major investigation by the F.B.I. into national security concerns.

Indian stock markets witnessed sharp declines for two consecutive days, wiping out Rs 13 lakh crore from investors. The BSE Sensex dropped by 984 points to 77,690.95, hitting a four-month low, while the NSE Nifty fell by 324 points to 23,559.05. Rising retail inflation at 6.21%, foreign fund outflows, and disappointing Q2 earnings fueled this decline. Financial, auto, and capital goods stocks took major hits. Additionally, the weakening rupee, higher U.S. bond yields, and sectoral dips in mid and small-cap shares contributed to market volatility, raising concerns for investors as global economic pressures continue.

In a historic Oval Office meeting, President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump pledged a “smooth” transition of power, marking Trump’s first return to the White House in four years. Biden assured Trump his team would “do everything we can to make sure you’re accommodated.” Trump expressed gratitude for Biden’s commitment to a seamless handover, contrasting with the contentious post-2020 election period. Notably, First Lady Jill Biden welcomed Trump, while Melania Trump did not attend. As they met, Senate Republicans selected John Thune as majority leader, and Republicans secured control of the House, solidifying Trump’s support in Congress.

Donald Trump, elected for a second term as U.S. President, hinted at the possibility of a third term, despite the constitutional restrictions. Speaking to House Republicans in Washington, Trump said, “I suspect I won’t be running again unless you say otherwise.” His statement, made ahead of his meeting with President Joe Biden, was met with cheers from his supporters. The U.S. Constitution’s 22nd Amendment limits presidents to two terms, and altering it to allow a third term would require significant support from Congress and state legislatures, a challenging prospect for Trump.

Thousands in Málaga, Spain, have been evacuated after a red alert was issued due to extreme rainfall from a "Dana" weather system. Heavy rain has forced the closure of schools and disrupted events, including a Billie Jean King Cup match between Spain and Poland. The alert also extends to Catalonia and Valencia, with parts of Andalusia and the Balearic Islands on orange alert for potential severe flooding. This comes just weeks after deadly floods hit the Valencia region, claiming over 220 lives. Authorities are taking preventive measures, with Málaga particularly affected as the storm continues to intensify.

US President-elect Donald Trump has selected John Ratcliffe to lead the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Ratcliffe, a close ally of Trump, previously served as Director of National Intelligence. Trump praised Ratcliffe for his honesty and dedication to protecting Americans' constitutional rights. While Kash Patel, a former House staffer and Trump ally, was speculated as the choice, he did not get the role. Ratcliffe’s appointment marks his return to a top intelligence position after a controversial tenure. He is known for challenging the FBI and supporting Trump’s political agenda during his first term.

US President-elect Donald Trump arrived in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday for meetings with House Republicans and President Joe Biden. Trump will first meet with GOP leaders on Capitol Hill, followed by a scheduled discussion with Biden at the White House. In a significant move, Trump appointed Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to co-lead a new "Department of Government Efficiency," aimed at reducing bureaucracy. Fox News host Pete Hegseth has been selected as defense secretary, and John Ratcliffe will head the CIA, signaling the initial framework of Trump’s upcoming administration. Melania Trump declined to attend the White House visit.

The Guardian announced it will stop posting on X, formerly Twitter, citing "disturbing content" such as racism and conspiracy theories. With 10.7 million followers, it’s the first major UK news outlet to leave the platform since Elon Musk’s 2022 purchase. The Guardian stated that the negatives of staying on X now outweigh the benefits. Musk dismissed the decision, calling the Guardian “irrelevant.” Musk’s approach to free speech has faced criticism for allowing hate speech on X. Recently, UK police and charities have also stopped using the platform, while the government maintains a limited presence.