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.

The tomb of ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's father, Hafez Assad, was torched by rebels in Qardaha, Latakia. The mausoleum, central to Assad’s Alawite heartland, was set ablaze during Syria's ongoing upheaval. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed the attack, with AFP footage showing significant damage. Hafez's elaborate tomb, along with family members’ graves, including Bashar’s brother Bassel, was destroyed. This follows a rapid rebel advance that seized Damascus, ousting Bashar Assad and ending over 50 years of Assad family rule. The incident marks a symbolic blow to Assad’s legacy amid Syria's ongoing conflict.

A Russian missile attack on Zaporizhzhia, southern Ukraine, killed 7 and injured 22, including a child. Local officials report the strike targeted a clinic and residential buildings, leaving 5 trapped under rubble. Two women were rescued overnight. Zaporizhzhia regional head Ivan Fedorov accused Russia of using an Iskander missile and vowed justice, declaring a day of mourning. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated calls for advanced air defense systems from Western allies. Meanwhile, a drone attack damaged an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) convoy vehicle near the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. IAEA head Rafael Grossi condemned the attack as "unacceptable."          

South Korean police have raided the presidential office in Seoul following President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed attempt to impose martial law. While authorities gained access to civil service offices, they were blocked from entering the main building by security. The raid comes amid political turmoil, with Yoon facing investigations on charges of insurrection and treason. The former defense minister, Kim Yong-hyun, who attempted suicide in detention, took responsibility for the martial law declaration. Political pressure on Yoon is mounting as protests continue and impeachment proceedings gain momentum.

Pubs across the UK are struggling with a Guinness shortage after Diageo imposed stock limits due to high demand. Landlords, especially those reliant on the iconic stout, have been forced into "panic buying" as supply shortages leave them with insufficient stock. Steven Crosbie, a Liverpool pub owner, warned that the situation could "cripple" his business. Guinness sales have surged by over 20% from July to October 2024, driven by younger drinkers and a trend of "Splitting the G." Pub owners are scrambling to find alternative sources to meet demand during the busy festive period.