The UN has condemned the high civilian death toll in Gaza, revealing that nearly 70% of the victims over a six-month period were women and children. The UN's Human Rights Office verified the deaths of 8,119 people, finding that 44% were children and 26% were women. This staggering figure was attributed to Israel’s use of wide-area weapons in densely populated areas, though some deaths also resulted from Palestinian armed groups. The report highlights severe violations of international law and calls for accountability, as the conflict has caused immense human suffering, particularly in northern Gaza.

Japan’s Kyoto University has successfully launched the world’s first wooden satellite, LignoSat, aboard a SpaceX rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The 10 cm box-like satellite, designed as part of a resupply mission to the International Space Station, is made of wood and aims to burn up upon re-entry into Earth's atmosphere. This innovative approach could help reduce metal particle generation when satellites are decommissioned, potentially minimizing environmental and telecommunications risks. The satellite will be tested in space for durability, with data sent back to researchers to assess its resilience to temperature extremes and other stresses.

Athiya Shetty and Indian cricketer KL Rahul have announced they are expecting their first child together. The couple, who married in January 2023, shared the joyful news with fans through a heartfelt joint Instagram post. The post, adorned with golden stars and tiny footprints, read, "Our beautiful blessing is coming soon. 2025," signaling the arrival of their baby in the coming year. The announcement was met with love and congratulatory messages from fans and celebrities alike. Athiya and Rahul's relationship, once kept private, has now blossomed into a happy marriage with the couple looking forward to this new chapter.

Israeli soccer fans attending the Europa League match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax Amsterdam in the Netherlands faced violent assaults by an alleged pro-Palestinian mob. Following the game, fans were targeted in various Amsterdam locations, with attackers chanting “Free Palestine” and hurling insults in Arabic. The assault left at least 10 Israelis injured, two reportedly missing, and some robbed of passports. In response, Israel’s PM Netanyahu dispatched two planes to evacuate the fans and called on Dutch authorities for urgent protection. Israel’s Foreign Ministry advised citizens in the Netherlands to remain indoors as officials condemned the violence as anti-Semitic.

Suryakumar Yadav, set to lead India in the T20I series against South Africa, hinted at a potential Test comeback after India’s 0-3 home defeat to New Zealand in the recent Test series. Not included in the Test squad, Yadav, who has played only one Test match for India, shared that he’s actively participating in all domestic formats, aiming for a Test recall. "If a Test comeback is meant to happen, it will," Yadav stated. Known for his consistent domestic performance, he boasts 5,656 runs in first-class cricket with 14 centuries. His dedication underscores his ambition for a Test return.

In Virginia, hundreds of Indian-Americans gathered to celebrate Chhath Puja, honoring the Sun God with traditional prayers and rituals. The four-day festival, which began on November 6, included the Kharna observance, where devotees fasted from sunrise to sunset. With support from local authorities, the community conducted rituals along a riverbank, mirroring celebrations in India. “Initially, only 7-8 families joined, but today, around 700 people celebrate here,” shared a local resident. Even Americans participated, asking for traditional prasad like Thekua. The event showcases Indian culture’s vibrancy and its growing presence within the U.S.

Donald Trump’s transition team has begun vetting candidates for key roles in his upcoming administration. His first official appointment is campaign co-manager Susie Wiles as White House chief of staff, marking her as the first woman in the role. High-profile supporters Elon Musk, RFK Jr., and Mike Pompeo are also being considered for cabinet and agency positions. Musk may lead a new Department of Government Efficiency, while RFK Jr. could handle public health issues. Former CIA Director Pompeo, a loyal Trump ally, is a likely candidate for defense secretary. Trump aims to assemble a team prioritizing efficiency and loyalty.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has dismissed as “fake” a purported memo allegedly issued by former Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra, which called on Indian diplomats in Canada to “cultivate diaspora groups” to counter Sikh extremism. The memo, which circulated on social media, named diaspora organizations as vital in street confrontations with Sikh extremists. The MEA clarified no such directive was issued, denouncing the document as fabricated. This response follows escalating tensions between India and Canada, with New Delhi rejecting Ottawa’s allegations linking Indian diplomats to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023.

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that India deserves recognition as a global superpower, highlighting its rapid economic growth, population, and cultural heritage. Addressing the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin emphasized the deepening trust and collaboration between Russia and India, particularly in security and defense, citing the joint BrahMos missile project as an example. He affirmed that Russia’s relationship with India continues to grow, driven by mutual interests. While acknowledging tensions between India and China, Putin expressed hope for peaceful resolutions, praising leaders on both sides for their diplomatic efforts to address border issues.

On November 8, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud delivered an emotional farewell on his last working day. Addressing the courtroom, he reflected on his two-year tenure, expressing gratitude and humility while acknowledging the support of his colleagues. He asked for forgiveness for any unintentional hurt caused, saying, “Forgive me if I hurt anyone.” Chandrachud praised the tradition of the judiciary and expressed confidence in his successor, Justice Sanjiv Khanna. Colleagues, including Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, lauded his legacy, highlighting his balanced judgments and humane approach, making a lasting impact on India’s legal landscape.