Militants hijacked a train in Pakistan's Balochistan, holding passengers hostage for nearly 36 hours. A successful military operation freed the hostages and eliminated over 30 militants. The BLA claimed responsibility, demanding the release of political prisoners. The attack left 21 civilian hostages and four military personnel dead, with the fate of 140 passengers uncertain.
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Russia launched a massive overnight strike on Ukraine, targeting its defence industry with nearly 70 missiles and 150 drone attacks, resulting in nine deaths and over 80 injuries. The strikes damaged plants in Kyiv that produced rocket fuel and gunpowder. President Zelenskyy condemned the attack, highlighting Russia's violation of ceasefire agreements and calling for strengthened air defences and global diplomatic efforts.
Kash Patel, nominee for FBI director, emphasized restoring public trust and prioritizing violent crime at his Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. He promised transparency and cooperation with Congress, referencing his counterterrorism experience. Patel acknowledged declining trust in the FBI and pledged to respond to all appropriate requests from lawmakers, aiming to safeguard communities and improve credibility.
A family in Lucknow’s Hussainganj area endured hours of isolation after cyber fraudsters hacked their phones and home devices. The culprits threatened the family by claiming control over their communication and surveillance. An investigation by local police is underway to identify the perpetrators.
This year, the UK royals celebrated Christmas at Sandringham without Prince Harry and Meghan. Prince Harry was replaced by Prince George in the traditional pre-Christmas football match, signifying the strained relationship between Harry and his family. Prince George participated alongside Prince William, highlighting healthy father-son bonding moments.
Heavy security was deployed in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, ahead of 'Alvida Juma' due to ongoing tensions related to a dispute over the Mughal-era Jama Masjid since November 2024. Guidelines were issued for offering prayers, and compliance was emphasized to prevent further unrest.
Batting maestro Virat Kohli, despite struggling in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, is regarded by Justin Langer as the best batter he has ever seen, even over legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Brian Lara. Kohli's critical innings of 36 runs in the fourth Test against Australia showcased his leadership and resilience, attributes Langer praises highly.
In Sambhal, the removal of loudspeakers from mosques led to the revival of an old practice where men walk the streets, calling for sehri. Mohd Shoaib now takes on the role, ensuring no one misses the pre-dawn meal. Enforcing noise regulations, officials stress individual voices remain unrestricted, sparking discussions on religious expression and state intervention.
The recent face-off between President Trump and Colombian President Gustavo Petro encapsulates this unparalleled approach. What began as a defiant standoff by Petro ended halfway through one of Trump’s golf rounds, proving once again that Trump’s playbook—equal parts spectacle and strategy—continues to rewrite the rules of global diplomacy.
Tragedy struck Wadala Saturday evening as a 4-year-old boy, Ayush Kinwade, was fatally struck by an SUV. Nineteen-year-old driver Bhushan Gole has been detained and is being questioned by police. Ayush, who lived on a footpath with his grandmother, was declared dead on arrival at KEM Hospital.
Hailee Steinfeld and NFL star Josh Allen are busy planning their wedding after Josh proposed in November 2024. They aim for a short engagement and are looking forward to spending more time together on the preparations. Josh recently celebrated his bachelor party, while Hailee gears up for her new movie release next month.