Syrian President Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia, seeking asylum after rebels took control of Damascus. Prime Minister Mohammed Ghazi Jalali announced efforts to stabilise the nation and coordinate with rebel leaders. Ahmad al-Sharaa, the head of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, promised tolerance and fairness during this transitional phase. Celebrations erupted in Damascus as citizens marked the end of Assad’s rule. Government services have been disrupted, with most officials leaving their posts. The UN reported a halt in public services, including medical aid. Rebel leaders assured citizens of inclusive governance and vowed not to impose restrictions on women’s clothing or rights.

South Korean authorities have imposed a travel ban on President Yoon Suk Yeol, who is under investigation for attempting to declare martial law last week. Despite surviving a failed impeachment motion, Yoon faces widespread protests and criticism from opposition parties. Key figures involved in the declaration have resigned or been arrested, including former Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun. The ruling People Power Party (PPP) announced that Yoon would refrain from involvement in state affairs until his early resignation, but the opposition decried the move as unconstitutional, vowing to continue impeachment efforts.

Russia confirmed granting political asylum to former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, who fled the country after rebels ousted him on Sunday. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated President Vladimir Putin approved Assad’s asylum but did not disclose his location or plans for a meeting. Assad’s 13-year rule ended following a surprise offensive led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) rebels, marking the collapse of his regime. HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani hailed the victory at Damascus’ Umayyad Mosque, calling it a historic moment for the region. The development ends Syria's dormant civil war and signals a major regional power shift.

President-elect Donald Trump announced plans to pardon Capitol rioters and end birthright citizenship via executive orders after his January inauguration. In an NBC interview, Trump reiterated his commitment to immigration reforms, including deporting undocumented families and revisiting the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. He pledged to reconsider NATO membership and hinted at reducing U.S. aid to Ukraine. Trump also expressed interest in investigating the link between vaccines and autism, appointing vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as health secretary. On political adversaries, Trump said retribution would come through success but called for jail time for January 6 investigators.

Israel confirmed striking suspected chemical weapon and missile sites in Syria to prevent them from falling into extremist hands, according to Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar. The strikes come after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was ousted by opposition forces and fled to Moscow, where Russia granted him asylum. Assad's government, weakened by years of civil war, rapidly lost territory following a surprise offensive from the northwest. Israeli officials emphasized the attacks were temporary, aimed solely at national security. Meanwhile, ongoing talks with Hamas for hostage releases remain unresolved. Syria’s civil war has claimed thousands of lives over 14 years.

Wisdom, a 74-year-old Laysan albatross, laid her first egg in four years at Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, Hawaii. Tagged in 1956, she holds the title of the oldest known wild bird globally. Despite losing her long-time mate, Akeakamai, Wisdom formed a new bond and is sharing incubation duties with her new partner. Over her lifetime, she has laid 50-60 eggs, raising around 30 chicks. Wildlife experts hope the egg will hatch successfully, exemplifying resilience against threats like plastic pollution and habitat loss. Wisdom’s longevity inspires hope for seabirds amid environmental challenges.

The leader of Syria's largest rebel group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, hailed the fall of President Bashar al-Assad as “a victory for the Islamic nation.” Speaking at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus on Sunday, Jolani declared, "Assad turned Syria into a farm for Iran’s greed. Today marks the end of tyranny and a new chapter for the Syrian people." Crowds in Damascus cheered and chanted "Allahu Akbar" as the HTS leader addressed them. Jolani, using his real name Ahmed al-Sharaa, praised the people for their resilience and promised a "free Syria for all."

US President-elect Donald Trump has promised to pardon those convicted for the 2021 Capitol riot on his first day in office. Speaking to NBC, he described their conditions as "disgusting" and said he would review their cases quickly. Trump also vowed to end birthright citizenship through executive action, challenging the 14th Amendment. He plans to deport undocumented immigrants while working with Democrats to support "Dreamers." Trump hinted at possible retribution against political adversaries but stated his focus is on making the country successful. He takes office on 20 January and plans to issue orders on immigration, energy, and the economy.

Police released new photos of the suspect who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on December 4 in Manhattan. The images, from a taxi dashcam, show the masked gunman. A backpack found in Central Park contained Monopoly money and a Tommy Hilfiger jacket. Investigators believe the shooter fled New York by bus shortly after the attack. Thompson, 50, was shot outside a hotel before an investor meeting. Bullet casings with cryptic words were found at the scene. The FBI has joined the hunt, offering a $50,000 reward. Police say the gunman arrived in New York on November 24 using fake ID.

Syrian rebels have taken control of Damascus, ending Bashar al-Assad’s 24-year rule. The president fled to Moscow, where Russia has granted him asylum. Rebel leader Abu Mohammed al-Julani declared victory at the Umayyad Mosque, calling it a historic moment. Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali promised a peaceful power transfer. Global leaders welcomed the change, with calls for stability and aid for civilians. Over 900 people, including 138 civilians, died in the recent fighting. The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting to discuss the situation. Syrians celebrated worldwide, hoping for a better future without Assad’s regime.