Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu wished Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the global Jewish community a happy Hanukkah, a festival that celebrates hope and freedom. In his message posted on X in English and Hebrew, PM Modi expressed his hope that the radiance of Hanukkah would bring peace, strength, and hope to everyone's lives. President Murmu also extended her warmest greetings to Israel President Isaac Herzog on this auspicious occasion.
In a move to maintain its influence in Syria after Bashar al-Assad's ouster, Iran has opened direct communication with rebel groups within Syria's new leadership. Despite concerns over losing a key ally and facing potential pressure from the incoming US administration, Iranian officials are keen on establishing ties with those whose views align with their own in the new Syrian government. This engagement is seen as crucial to stabilizing ties and preventing further tensions in the region, as a hostile post-Assad Syria would have implications for Iranian access to the Mediterranean and their relationship with Hezbollah and Israel.
While Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra faced criticism for sporting a handbag with 'Palestine' written on it, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath seized the opportunity to highlight the successful partnership between his state and Israel. Adityanath revealed that more than 5,500 UP youths had been sent to Israel for infrastructure projects, earning handsome wages and contributing to the state's economy. Responding to the backlash, Priyanka Gandhi hit back at her critics, stating that it was her personal choice to wear what she wants.
Shashi Ruia, co-founder of the multinational conglomerate, Essar Group, has passed away at the age of 80. In light of this tragedy, the company has appointed Manu Kapoor as its new group chief, effective immediately. The news has garnered international attention, with even the Prime Minister of Israel expressing his condolences. The group has also announced its plans to create the world's first decarbonized refinery in the UK, showcasing its commitment to sustainability and innovation.
The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former Defence Minister, and two Hamas officials for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Despite rejection from Mr. Netanyahu's office, the court's decision highlights international concern over the 13-month war in Gaza and the 2023 attack on Israel. While the warrants may limit the suspects' movements, the practical implications are limited as Israel and the US are not members of the court.
In yet another round of violence, Israel has launched an air strike on central Beirut, resulting in the deaths of at least five people and injuring 24 others. This attack comes as the militant group Hezbollah considers a proposed ceasefire backed by the United States in Lebanon. As tensions continue to escalate in the region, a large fire has also broken out in Tel Aviv following the raid sirens that sounded.
After leaving Hapoel Tel Aviv due to the war situation in Israel and reported interest from Serbian EuroLeague club Crvena Zvezda, former center Johnathan Motley was expected to make a move to the European basketball scene. However, he is now signing with a G League team and attracting interest from NBA clubs instead. Hapoel's owner claimed that Motley's decision to leave was due to the offer from Zvezda, which was denied by the club's sports director. While there were reports about FIBA denying issuing the letter of clearance for Motley's new team, nothing has been officially confirmed yet.
Iran International reveals that Mojtaba Khamenei has been secretly chosen as the successor to his ailing father and current supreme leader, Ali Khamenei. The decision was allegedly made under pressure and threats from Khamenei's representatives, causing controversy and uncertainty among Iran's Assembly of Experts. This succession could have major political implications for Iran and its relationship with neighboring countries, especially amid tensions with Israel.
As Iran braces for a turbulent political future amid widespread protests and ongoing tensions with Israel, speculation is rising that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been secretly chosen as the nation's next Supreme Leader. Amid reports of Khamenei's failing health, a recent secret meeting of Iran's Assembly of Experts allegedly resulted in the unanimous selection of Mojtaba as his successor. However, this succession comes with its own set of challenges as the political landscape in Iran has polarized and other influential figures who could serve as kingmakers have died, leaving the future of Iran's leadership uncertain.
A new scandal has emerged involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office and its alleged orders to stop recording war cabinet meetings during Israel's offensive on Gaza in October 2023. This deviation from standard security protocols has prompted an investigation by Israel's Attorney General, with reports claiming that Netanyahu's office has collected sensitive footage of a senior military figure for unknown purposes. The controversy surrounding this incident highlights potential misuse of power by the Prime Minister's office and raises questions about the security of sensitive information in Israel's government.