South Korean police called off an arrest attempt on suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol after a tense six-hour standoff with his security team and military forces. Yoon, under investigation for abuse of power and inciting insurrection, was set to be the first sitting president arrested in South Korea. Supporters, gathered outside Yoon's residence, cheered as authorities halted the operation. Despite the failure, investigations continue, and police are considering a new arrest attempt before the current warrant expires. Yoon’s defiance and ongoing legal battles deepen the political crisis in South Korea.

The UK is facing a severe cold spell with multiple snow and ice warnings as an arctic blast sweeps through the region. Yellow warnings are in place for England, Wales, and Scotland, with snow accumulation expected to reach up to 30 cm. An amber health alert covers all of England, warning of a rise in deaths, especially in the morning when frost is thick. Dangerous driving conditions have led to travel disruptions, particularly in Greater Manchester, where a major incident was declared due to flooding. The government is working to expedite flood defenses and support affected communities.

Jasprit Bumrah silenced 19-year-old Australian Sam Konstas with a fiery performance on Day 1 of the 5th India-Australia Test in Sydney. The pacer dismissed Usman Khawaja following a heated exchange with Konstas, who attempted to rattle Bumrah at the non-striker's end. Bumrah struck back with a crucial wicket and celebrated by charging at Konstas, showcasing his dominance. The rivalry intensified after Konstas had hit Bumrah for 32 runs in the previous Test. Commentator Adam Gilchrist remarked, "Konstas learns a tough lesson in his second Test." The series continues to highlight fierce competition and fiery battles.

President-elect Donald Trump announced potential changes to the H1B visa system, impacting over 1 million Indians awaiting employment-based immigration. He emphasized the need for "smart people" to fill critical roles in the U.S. workforce. Trump's statement coincided with his appointment of Sriram Krishnan as White House AI policy adviser, sparking debates over immigration policy. Indian workers accounted for 72% of H1B recipients in FY 2023. Critics within Trump's base argue against expanding the visa program, clashing with advocates like Elon Musk. The debate raises questions about U.S.-India ties and the future of skilled immigration in America.

Israel's military disclosed details of its September 8, 2024, operation targeting an Iranian-funded underground missile production site in Masyaf, Syria. The Israeli Air Force deployed over 100 Kingfisher fighters, supported by helicopters, jets, and naval ships, to destroy the "Deep Layer" facility. Built with Iranian backing, the site produced precision missiles for Hezbollah and Syria's Assad regime. Critical machinery, weapons, and intelligence documents were seized before the facility was demolished. Air Force Commander Major General Tomer Bar called the mission essential to Israel's security. All personnel returned safely, marking a significant blow to Iran's regional ambitions.

Iran pledged support for Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, sentenced to death in Yemen for a 2017 murder. Priya, from Kerala's Palakkad district, is accused of sedating Yemeni national Talal Abdo Mahdi, leading to his death. Yemen's President recently approved her death penalty. Priya’s mother, Prema Kumari, made an emotional plea from Sana’a, urging India to save her daughter. The Indian government confirmed efforts to explore options. Iran’s official said, “We will do all we can on humanitarian grounds.” Priya remains jailed in Houthi-controlled Sana’a.

Dense fog and smog disrupted over 100 flights at Delhi's IGI Airport on Friday, with no diversions reported. Airlines, including IndiGo and SpiceJet, warned passengers of delays. The CAT III system ensured some operations in low visibility. Delhi's air quality index hit 351, rated "very poor," while the city ranked third among the world's most polluted capitals, per IQAir. Thick smog reduced visibility to zero in parts of the city, causing some train delays. Authorities urged travelers to stay updated with airlines. Delhi Airport handles 1,300 daily flights.

Air Kerala is set to commence operations by June 2025, with its first flight departing from Kannur International Airport. The airline, which received a no-objection certificate from the civil aviation ministry in July 2024, has partnered with Kannur International Airport Ltd (KIAL) to establish a base and begin regional flights. Initially operating regional ATR turboprop aircraft, the carrier plans to expand to narrow-body jets and international routes. Chairman Afi Ahmed emphasized the airline's commitment to offering reliable, affordable travel. Kannur Airport is poised to become a key hub, connecting domestic and international passengers seamlessly.

China is reportedly facing an outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus similar to Covid-19, affecting mainly children and the elderly. Social media claims suggest overwhelmed hospitals and crematoriums, though no official confirmation has been provided. HMPV symptoms include coughing, fever, and respiratory distress, potentially leading to pneumonia in severe cases. The virus, first identified in 2001, has no specific treatment or vaccine. Prevention measures, such as frequent handwashing and mask usage, are advised. While health authorities in China have yet to declare a state of emergency, rising cases have sparked concern over a potential epidemic.

India vs Australia, 5th Test Day 1: India was bowled out for 185 after electing to bat at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Rishabh Pant top-scored with 40 runs off 98 balls, while Scott Boland claimed 4/31 for Australia. Despite a resilient middle-order effort, India lost six wickets for 78 runs in the final session. Australia ended the day at 9/1, with Jasprit Bumrah dismissing Usman Khawaja on the last ball of the day. Bumrah also clashed with debutant Sam Konstas, who remained unbeaten on 7. India leads by 176 runs as the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series finale unfolds.