King Charles shared a heartfelt Christmas address from a London hospital chapel. He openly spoke about the "anxieties and uncertainties" of illness, reflecting on his own health struggles this year. The King thanked healthcare teams for their support and care, adding a message of hope for the future. He also highlighted the importance of community, praising those who united after summer riots and showing concern for people impacted by global conflicts. With a religious tone, the King expressed a commitment to resilience and understanding, determined to continue his duties while undergoing regular treatment.

Pope Francis urged negotiations between Ukraine and Russia to end the ongoing war. Speaking during his Christmas address at St Peter's Basilica, he said, “Boldness is needed to open the door to dialogue for a just and lasting peace.” His appeal came hours after Russia launched a major missile attack on Ukraine's energy facilities. The Pope also called for ceasefires in Gaza and Syria, adding, “May the sound of arms be silenced in war-torn Ukraine and beyond.” He addressed conflicts worldwide, urging nations to seek peace and protect communities suffering from violence and war.

Pakistan launched rare airstrikes on Afghanistan’s Paktika province, targeting Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) hideouts, killing 50 people, including women and children. The strikes, which occurred hours after Pakistan’s envoy visited Kabul, targeted the Murgha and Laman areas in Bernal district. Videos showed widespread destruction and civilian casualties, intensifying tensions between the nations. Afghanistan’s Taliban condemned the attacks as “barbaric” and vowed retaliation, citing sovereignty defense as their right. Pakistan accuses TTP of using Afghan territory for attacks, a claim Kabul denies. This marks Pakistan’s second airstrike on Afghan soil this year.

BJP MP Anurag Thakur has backed actor Allu Arjun amid criticism following a stampede at a Pushpa 2: The Rule premiere in Hyderabad. Thakur said, “Some people are trying to tarnish Telugu actors who have brought global fame to Indian cinema.” He praised Allu Arjun’s National Award and noted the success of Telugu films like RRR and Baahubali. The controversy intensified after a Telangana Congress MLA warned Arjun to stop commenting on the Chief Minister, threatening to block his films. The stampede, which killed a woman and injured her child, led to Arjun being questioned by police and released on bail.

Doctors in Kolkata, under the Joint Platform of Doctors (JPD), are intensifying protests over the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College in August. Demonstrations near Dorina Crossing are set to continue beyond December 26, pending police permission. Protesters demand the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) expedite its chargesheet against Sandip Ghosh and Abhijit Mondal, previously released on bail. Doctors also criticized forensic findings and alleged evidence tampering. Nationwide protests earlier spotlighted the incident, pressing for justice and improved security for medical professionals.

A chilling video captured by a passenger shows the moments before an Azerbaijan Airlines plane crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, killing 38 people. The footage, widely shared online, reveals passengers shouting "Allahu Akbar" as oxygen masks dangle and the plane descends steeply. Another clip, post-crash, shows upside-down cabin panels, blood-stained armrests, and survivors screaming for help. The Embraer 190 aircraft had deviated from its flight path before making an emergency landing 3 km from Aktau. Investigations are underway, and the tragic incident has sparked widespread mourning, including a national day of mourning in Azerbaijan.

In Indore, Madhya Pradesh, a Zomato delivery agent was compelled to remove his Santa Claus costume by a member of the Hindu Jagran Manch on Christmas. The group’s district convenor, Sumit Hardia, questioned the delivery company’s decision to dress agents in non-Hindu festival attire, claiming it disrespected Hindu traditions. A video showed Hardia asking, "Do you ever go to homes dressed as Lord Ram?" The delivery agent explained it was a company directive. Hardia alleged such costumes promote religious conversions and called for similar acknowledgment of Hindu festivals. The incident has sparked a broader conversation on cultural sensitivity.

Canada has introduced significant changes to its Express Entry system, affecting Indian professionals seeking permanent residence. From spring 2025, Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for job offers will be removed to curb immigration fraud. Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, said the move aims to prevent misuse of labour market impact assessments while still attracting skilled talent. Current PR applicants or those with existing invitations remain unaffected. Additionally, flagpoling at border points, previously used for immigration services, has been discontinued. This overhaul could impact thousands of skilled workers and students pursuing opportunities in Canada.

The Kapoor family hosted their annual Christmas luncheon, showcasing three generations in a heartwarming gathering. Neetu Kapoor and Navya Nanda shared glimpses of the celebration, featuring Alia Bhatt with baby Raha, Ranbir Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor, Babita, and others. Notably absent were Kareena Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan, and their children, who are on holiday. Karisma and Riddhima Kapoor also missed the event. Navya posted photos with her cousin and aunt, Nitasha Nanda. On the professional front, Ranbir and Alia are collaborating on Love and War, while Agastya Nanda and Zahan Kapoor prepare for upcoming projects.

A tragic Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash near Aktau, Kazakhstan, left 30 dead. The Embraer ERJ-190 jet, carrying 67 people, faced issues after reportedly hitting a flock of birds, leading to steering and engine malfunctions. It crashed 3 km from the airport, bursting into flames. Among 32 survivors, 22 were hospitalized, including an 11-year-old girl and a 16-year-old. Passengers included 37 Azerbaijanis, 16 Russians, 6 Kazakhs, and 3 Kyrgyz. Horrific footage showed the plane nosediving before impact. Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev expressed condolences and cut short his Russia visit. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.