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.

Ukrainians are hopeful for a New Year prisoner exchange with Russia, as negotiations have become more difficult amidst Russian territorial gains. Ukrainian official Petro Yatsenko stated that while talks are ongoing, exchanges have dwindled in 2024, with only 10 swaps so far. Over 8,000 Ukrainians are believed to be held by Russia. Some families, like Andriy and Lena Turas, have been reunited after lengthy captivity, but many Ukrainians still wait for their loved ones' release. The UN reports widespread torture of Ukrainian prisoners by Russian forces, claims denied by Russia.

Srinagar Airport canceled all flights on Saturday due to heavy snowfall, which caused poor visibility and runway issues. This disruption follows a series of cancellations on Friday evening as the region experienced its first snowfall of the season. The snowfall also affected road and rail traffic, leaving approximately 2,000 vehicles stranded on the Srinagar-Jammu national highway. Train services were suspended on the Banihal-Baramulla section. Despite the challenges, locals and tourists expressed joy at the arrival of the snow, which is expected to benefit tourism, agriculture, and the region’s water supply.

Bodycam footage released by New York authorities reveals correctional officers at Marcy Correctional Facility beating handcuffed inmate Robert Brooks, 43, who died the next day. The footage, made public by New York Attorney General Letitia James, shows officers striking Brooks in the face, groin, and stomach while he was seated on a medical table. Following an internal review, 13 officers and a nurse were fired. Preliminary findings suggest asphyxia due to neck compression as the cause of death. Brooks was transferred to Marcy just hours before the assault and had been serving a 12-year sentence.

India reached 326/7 on Day 3 of the 4th Test against Australia, trailing by 148 runs, as rain forced an early Tea at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Nitish Kumar Reddy (85* off 119) and Washington Sundar (40* off 115) forged a crucial 105-run eighth-wicket partnership, countering Australia’s pace and spin. Despite early setbacks, including the dismissals of Pant and Jadeja, India avoided the follow-on. Reddy showcased resilience with his maiden Test fifty, while Sundar provided solid support. The rain interruption leaves the game delicately poised, with India looking to narrow the gap further on resumption.

The US has hinted at Russia's involvement in the Azerbaijan Airlines crash that killed 38 on 25 December. White House spokesperson John Kirby cited "early indications" linking Russian air defence systems to the incident. The Embraer 190 plane, damaged over Grozny, Chechnya, was redirected across the Caspian Sea before crashing in Kazakhstan. Survivors reported hearing explosions mid-air, while Azerbaijan's transport minister confirmed "external interference." Russia and Kazakhstan proposed a CIS-led probe, but Azerbaijan demands an international inquiry. The Kremlin has denied responsibility, calling the situation in Chechnya "complex." The crash injured several but credited pilots saved 29 lives.

Osamu Suzuki, former chairman of Suzuki Motor Corporation, passed away on December 25 at 94 due to lymphoma. Known for transforming Suzuki into a global automotive leader, he pioneered small cars and motorcycles. His bold ventures included introducing the iconic Maruti 800 in India in the 1980s, solidifying Suzuki’s dominance in the Indian market. Leading the company for decades, Suzuki forged key partnerships with General Motors and Volkswagen, expanding operations worldwide. Despite stepping down in 2016 amid a testing scandal, his advisory role continued to shape Suzuki’s legacy. His leadership and innovative vision leave an indelible mark on the industry.

The Houthis pledged to intensify missile attacks on Israel in solidarity with Palestinians despite Israel’s airstrikes on Yemen. The strikes targeted Yemen’s Sanaa airport, ports, and power stations, killing at least 4 and injuring UN personnel. Houthi leader Mohammed al-Bukhaiti accused Israel of “genocide in Gaza” and vowed continued military operations. Israel claimed the attacks were retaliation for Houthi missile launches, asserting it targeted "military infrastructure." The UN expressed grave concerns over escalating violence and its impact on humanitarian efforts. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of continued actions against the "Houthi terrorist organisation."

Former PM Manmohan Singh passed away at 92 in Delhi, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom and humility. Sonia Gandhi, former Congress chief, paid tribute, calling him a "friend, philosopher, and guide" and the "epitome of wisdom, nobility, and humility." Remembering his contributions, she highlighted his commitment to social justice and democratic values, which transformed millions of lives. Credited with 1991’s economic reforms, Singh's passing creates an irreplaceable void. Tributes poured in from leaders, including President Murmu, PM Modi, and Vice President Dhankhar. His last rites will be held Saturday. Singh is survived by his wife and three daughters.

US universities are advising international students to return before Donald Trump's January 20 inauguration, fearing potential travel bans. Institutions like Cornell and USC are issuing warnings due to Trump's proposed immigration policies, including expanding bans on Muslim-majority countries and revoking visas for "radical" individuals. India, now the largest source of international students in the US with 3.3 lakh enrolled in 2023-24, faces added caution, as new countries may be added to the travel ban list. While Trump suggests green cards for graduates, his policies create uncertainty. Universities aim to minimize disruption, ensuring students can continue their educational pursuits.