Israel activated the US-deployed THAAD missile defense system to intercept a ballistic missile fired by Iran-backed Houthi rebels from Yemen. This marked the system's first operational use in Israel since its deployment in October following a ballistic missile attack by Iran. The interception occurred amid escalating Houthi attacks, with five strikes targeting Israel in eight days. The Houthis claimed they aimed at Ben Gurion Airport, prompting Israeli airstrikes on Yemeni targets. The advanced THAAD system uses kinetic energy to neutralize threats, distinguishing it from conventional missile defenses. Over the past year, the Houthis launched 200 missiles and 170 drones at Israel.

North India braces for a severe cold wave as temperatures are predicted to drop by 3-5°C, according to the IMD. Heavy rains and dense fog are expected in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan through December 30, with parts of Himachal Pradesh set to experience severe cold wave conditions on December 30-31. Kashmir witnessed its season's first snowfall, disrupting travel and blanketing the region. West and Central India will also see a 3-5°C dip, while East India temperatures may fall by 2-4°C. The New Year will begin with chilly weather, impacting daily life across multiple regions.

US President-elect Donald Trump has filed a request with the US Supreme Court to delay an impending TikTok ban, scheduled for January 19. Trump's legal team argues for a "political resolution" once he assumes office, emphasizing the clash between free-speech rights and national security concerns. The court will hear arguments on January 10 regarding the law demanding TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, sell the platform to an American company. Trump has opposed the ban, despite supporting it during his presidency, and recently met with TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew at Mar-a-Lago.

A tragic accident occurred in Mumbai's Kandivali when a car driven by Marathi actress Urmila Kothare’s driver hit two metro workers near Poisar Metro Station. One worker died instantly, and another was severely injured. The car, traveling at high speed, lost control, and both Kothare and the driver were injured. The actress, known for her roles in "Duniyadaari" and "Ti Sadhya Kay Karte," was saved by the car's airbags and sustained minor injuries. The police have registered a case against the driver and are investigating the cause. This incident highlights growing concerns about Mumbai's road safety.

Amid debates over H1B visa policies, Vivek Ramaswamy, Indian-American leader of the upcoming Department of Government Efficiency, emphasized cultural reforms in the US. He argued that American culture often prioritizes "mediocrity over excellence," contributing to the dominance of immigrant talent in tech industries. Citing examples from popular culture, Ramaswamy urged parents to focus on fostering achievement, citing science competitions over TV reruns and math tutoring over leisure. Calling it a "Sputnik moment," he highlighted the need for a cultural shift to compete globally. Canadian musician Grimes also defended Indian immigrants, condemning anti-India rhetoric and praising Indian-American cultural integration.

Nitish Reddy's maiden Test century and Washington Sundar's gritty 50 helped India reduce Australia's lead to 116 runs on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Reddy's unbeaten 105 and Sundar's 127-run partnership for the eighth wicket halted Australia's momentum after Nathan Lyon’s bowling put India at 221/7. Sundar fell to Lyon after a patient knock of 50 off 162 balls. Australia’s bowlers, led by Scott Boland, maintained pressure throughout the day. Early stumps were called due to rain, with India at 358/9, keeping the match intriguingly poised.

Thick fog disrupted flights across the UK on Saturday, with visibility dropping to 100 metres in parts of Southeast and Central England. Heathrow reported 20 delayed departures, Gatwick saw 35 delays, and Manchester experienced 24 delays by 11 AM. National Air Traffic Services (NATS) imposed temporary air traffic restrictions to maintain safety. Travelers were urged to check flight statuses before departure. The Met Office forecasted continued fog throughout the weekend, with yellow rain warnings for Scotland on Monday. Civil Aviation Authority reminded passengers of airlines’ obligation to provide care during delays caused by weather conditions.

India bid farewell to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, cremated with full state honours at Nigambodh Ghat, New Delhi. His daughter lit the funeral pyre, with President Droupadi Murmu, PM Narendra Modi, and global dignitaries in attendance. Singh’s final journey began at AICC headquarters amid chants of "Manmohan Singh Amar Rahe." Known as the architect of India’s economic reforms, Singh served as PM from 2004-2014. The nation observes seven days of mourning, with the tricolour at half-mast. Leaders from the US, Canada, France, and neighbouring nations paid tributes to Singh’s legacy.

Israeli forces evacuated Kamal Adwan Hospital, one of northern Gaza’s last operational health facilities, citing a Hamas "terrorist stronghold" in the area. Medics reported the evacuation endangered ICU patients reliant on ventilators. Airstrikes in the vicinity reportedly killed 50 people, including 5 medical staff. Gaza's deputy health minister criticized the relocation of critical patients to the non-functional Indonesian hospital. The World Health Organization condemned the attack, stating vital departments were destroyed. Israeli officials denied responsibility for the fatalities and a fire at the hospital. Kamal Adwan has faced intensified blockades since October, with aid agencies struggling to deliver supplies.

India’s Nitish Kumar Reddy created history in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, becoming the first Indian No.8 to score a century in Australia. The 21-year-old’s nervy 105-run knock saw him stuck in the 90s with one wicket remaining. His father, present at the stadium, prayed fervently and was moved to tears after Nitish hit a boundary to complete the milestone. Speaking to Adam Gilchrist, he called the day unforgettable and praised Mohammed Siraj for surviving Pat Cummins’ over. Nitish’s gritty performances have been key for India throughout the series, solidifying his impact on international cricket.