Israel is reportedly unlikely to target Iran’s nuclear sites, focusing instead on military bases and leadership targets following Tehran's ballistic missile attack. The missile barrage, which saw nearly 200 missiles hit Israeli locations, came in retaliation for Israel's assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Former Israeli PM Naftali Bennett has urged Israel to attack Iran’s nuclear program, warning of a potential nuclear disaster if the regime is not stopped. Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared that Tehran is "not afraid of war" and will firmly respond to any Israeli aggression. Tensions in the region continue to escalate.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk is set to campaign for Donald Trump in Pennsylvania ahead of the November 5 U.S. presidential election. Musk appeared on stage at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where an assassination attempt on Trump occurred in July. This marks Musk's first in-person support at a Trump event since endorsing him after the July incident. Musk, who owns X (formerly Twitter), has actively used the platform to back Trump and criticize Democrats. Pennsylvania, a key battleground state, is vital for both Trump and his opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, in this close electoral race.

Hezbollah launched over 100 rockets on Haifa and its surrounding areas, marking the most intense attack on the northern Israeli city since 2006. Israel reported intercepting some of the missiles but confirmed significant damage. The attacks follow Israel's ground offensive in south-west Lebanon, launched on 30 September, targeting Hezbollah positions. Until now, Israeli forces had focused on the eastern side of the border. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes continued in Beirut, with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reporting the killing of a senior Hezbollah commander on Monday. The conflict escalates as both sides intensify their military actions.

The BJP secured a majority in Haryana's 90-seat Assembly, earning a record third consecutive term. Congress's strong start in the state was overtaken by BJP’s Nayab Singh Saini-led campaign. Meanwhile, in Jammu & Kashmir, the National Conference-Congress alliance won 45 seats, paving the way for Omar Abdullah to be the next Chief Minister. The BJP secured 27 seats in J&K, while AAP managed only one. Celebrations erupted at the Congress office in Srinagar, marking a significant victory.

In celebration of the Hindu Festival of Lights, Mattel has launched the first-ever Diwali Barbie. The doll, designed in collaboration with renowned Indian designer Anita Dongre, features traditional Indian attire, including a choli, floral vest, and lehenga. Adorned with gold bangles and earrings, Diwali Barbie represents the radiant lights of the festival. Dongre expressed her excitement about honoring Indian heritage through Barbie, blending modern and traditional elements. The release is part of Mattel's Festival of the World series, which includes dolls for global celebrations like Cinco de Mayo and Chinese New Year.

In a bold show of solidarity, over 45 senior doctors from RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata resigned on October 8, 2024, to support junior doctors protesting the rape and murder of a trainee doctor in August. They criticized the lack of progress in the investigation and the deteriorating health of colleagues on a hunger strike. The senior doctors urged the government to engage with the protesters and address demands for improved hospital security and the removal of the health secretary. Junior doctors continue their hunger strike, demanding justice for the victim amidst ongoing tensions.

Tragedy struck on Dhaulagiri, Nepal, as five Russian mountaineers were found dead after going missing during their ascent. Rakesh Gurung from Nepal's tourism department reported that the climbers lost contact on October 6 while attempting to summit the 8,167-meter peak. The bodies were discovered by a helicopter rescue team at an altitude of 7,700 meters. One climber who abandoned the summit attempt was rescued and hospitalized in Kathmandu. The incident raises concerns over safety practices in Nepal's climbing industry, which attracts hundreds of international climbers each year, contributing significantly to the local economy.

In a surprising turn of events, the BJP has secured a historic hat-trick in the Haryana Assembly elections, leading in 49 out of 90 seats despite facing 10 years of anti-incumbency. Key factors for this victory include a counter-polarization of Jat votes, sustained loyalty from urban voters, and a united front under newly appointed Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. The Congress, overconfident in its Jat support, suffered from infighting, diminishing its electoral strength. The BJP's strategic approach and solid voter base have allowed it to defy expectations and maintain power in Haryana.

Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) chief Farooq Abdullah announced that his son, Omar Abdullah, will be the next chief minister following the 2024 elections. As the NC-Congress alliance approaches a majority, Farooq stated, “People have given their mandate, they have proven that they don’t accept the decision that was taken on August 5.” Omar Abdullah secured victory in Budgam, defeating the PDP's Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi by over 18,000 votes. Farooq expressed gratitude to the voters, affirming it as a reflection of the people's choice in Jammu and Kashmir.

Tower Bridge in London experienced severe traffic disruption after being left stuck open due to technical issues during a cruise ship lift at 6 a.m. The bridge's closure blocked the road between Tower Hill and Queen Elizabeth Street, causing significant congestion through central London, reaching Limehouse and Aldgate. Additionally, rail services faced delays due to a broken rail in the Finsbury Park area and other disruptions affecting several lines, including Thameslink and South Western Railway. Commuters are advised to expect delays throughout the day as authorities work to resolve these issues.