The FDA has approved a new COVID-19 vaccine for everyone aged 6 months and up. However, experts suggest that healthy individuals who have already been vaccinated or previously infected may want to wait before getting the shot. Immunity from previous vaccines and infections could still offer protection. Those at high risk, like older adults or those with chronic conditions, are encouraged to get the vaccine sooner. The new vaccine targets a recent Omicron variant, but concerns about its effectiveness against future variants remain.

Qaid Farhan Alkadi, a 52-year-old Israeli Bedouin kidnapped by Hamas on 7 October, has been reunited with his family. The Israeli military claimed Alkadi was rescued from a tunnel in Gaza during a complex operation, though some reports suggest he may have initially escaped on his own. Alkadi, who was working as a security guard at a kibbutz when abducted, was taken to Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba for checks. His family expressed immense relief and joy at his safe return, as Israel continues efforts to rescue other hostages still held in Gaza.

Kolkata Police arrested 126 protesters, including 103 males and 23 females, during a march to the state secretariat, Nabanna, demanding Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's resignation over the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor. Clashes erupted, resulting in 15 police personnel being injured. Authorities used batons, tear gas, and water cannons to control the situation. The heightened security follows a call for a 'Bengal bandh' by the BJP. Over 6,000 police officers were deployed to manage the unrest and ensure order in the city.

The Notting Hill Carnival in London saw eight people stabbed and hundreds arrested over the weekend. The Metropolitan Police reported five stabbings on the final day and three the previous day, with three victims in critical condition. Officers made at least 230 arrests, including 49 for weapon possession, and seized three firearms. Despite the violence, the carnival, celebrating British Afro-Caribbean culture, attracted around a million attendees. The Met's Deputy Assistant Commissioner criticized the recurring violence and urged witnesses to report crimes. The event remains a vibrant celebration for most attendees.

At least 12 people have died and 11 are missing due to severe rainfall in Gujarat and southern Rajasthan over the past 48 hours. Heavy showers have caused reservoirs to overflow, prompting flooding and displacement of thousands. Schools are closed in affected areas. The intense rainfall, driven by a deep depression, has led to significant damage, with over 20,000 people impacted in Gujarat alone. The India Meteorological Department forecasts continued heavy rains and potential flooding in the coming days.

Canada is experiencing widespread protests as over 70,000 international students face deportation due to recent immigration policy changes. The students, mainly from India, are rallying across provinces, demanding an extension of work permits and a path to permanent residency. The Canadian government’s new cap on student permits and reduced residency nominations have intensified the crisis. Critics argue these policies unfairly target students while overlooking broader systemic issues. Advocacy groups urge the government to address these concerns and provide clear pathways to residency for those who have invested significantly in their education and the economy.

In Kolkata, 126 people were arrested during the "Nabanna Abhijan" protest march demanding Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s resignation over the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at R.G. Kar Hospital. The West Bengal government has warned that all government offices must remain open and issued show cause notices for absentees. BJP has launched a helpline for legal and medical aid for protesters. The protest saw clashes with police, who used tear gas and water cannons to control the crowd. Over 6,000 officers were deployed, and 19 barricades were set up to manage the situation

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the successful test of Ukraine's first domestically produced ballistic missile. This milestone follows recent large-scale Russian bombings across Ukraine that resulted in casualties and damaged energy infrastructure. Zelensky's announcement, made during a press conference in Kyiv, highlights Ukraine's efforts to bolster its arms industry and reduce reliance on Western military aid. The country has also introduced its own long-range "rocket drone" and signed agreements with Western firms for small arms and ammunition production.

Captain Gopichand Thotakura, India’s first civilian space tourist, returned from Blue Origin’s New Shepard-25 mission and met Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar in Delhi. Thotakura, who embarked on the space journey as part of a milestone mission, expressed his pride and joy at representing India. Reflecting on his experience, he highlighted space tourism’s potential and its role in environmental protection. Thotakura also emphasized the importance of making space travel more accessible and inspiring future generations to pursue careers in STEAM fields.

Downing Street officials are drafting a media plan to announce the death of Larry the cat, the 17-year-old 'chief mouser' who has become a beloved fixture at Number 10. Known for his presence during major events, Larry's passing is anticipated to be handled with sensitivity. Sources indicate that press materials and photos are being prepared in advance. Larry, adopted by David Cameron in 2011, has outlasted five prime ministers and is cherished by the public. He is noted for his role in greeting guests and inspecting the premises.