The Indian women's cricket team scripted history on Sunday by registering their first ever test match victory over Australia. Chasing a modest target of 75 runs, India cruised to the target with Smriti Mandhana remaining unbeaten on 38. India had set up the win by bundling out Australia for 261 in their second innings after posting an imposing 406 in their first innings. Spinner Sneh Rana was the star with the ball, taking 4 wickets in Australia's second innings. Earlier, Tahlia McGrath hit a valiant 73 to keep Australia in the hunt. However, the final day belonged to India as Mandhana struck the winning runs to seal a historic 8 wicket victory. This was India's first ever test match win over the mighty Australians.

President Biden emphasized civilian protection during a phone call with PM Netanyahu as Israeli forces conducted new strikes in Gaza. The UN Security Council passed a resolution for humanitarian aid but stopped short of calling for a ceasefire. Biden, after the call, stated, "I did not ask for a ceasefire," highlighting discussions on Israel's military objectives and the release of remaining hostages. UN Secretary-General Guterres insists a "humanitarian ceasefire" is crucial for effective aid delivery, increasing pressure on Israel to grant access. The conflict has displaced 1.9 million in Gaza, amplifying calls for international intervention.          

The Israel-Hamas conflict escalates with over 200 reported deaths in Gaza within 24 hours, as Israeli forces persist in their offensive despite a UN Security Council resolution for increased aid. UN Secretary-General Guterres criticizes Israel for obstructing aid deliveries, while civilians in Gaza urgently call for a ceasefire amid alleged massacres. Israel's goal to eliminate Hamas and demands for hostages' release heighten tensions. The war has displaced nearly two million people, amplifying concerns over the worsening humanitarian crisis. Outside Gaza, maritime tensions rise with a drone strike off India, fueling fears of broader regional escalation amid ongoing cross-border clashes.

Indian Navy officials have contradicted US reports, clarifying that the drone-attacked vessel, MV Saibaba, is registered under Gabon's flag, not India's. The crude oil tanker, targeted by Houthi rebels in the Southern Red Sea, carried 25 Indian crew members, all confirmed safe. The US Central Command initially identified the ship as Indian-flagged, part of two drone attacks. These events mark the 14th and 15th Houthi assaults on commercial shipping since October 17, according to US sources. The incident raises maritime security concerns amidst heightened tensions in the Red Sea, emphasizing the need for accurate information in such delicate situations.

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) led by newly-elected president Sanjay Singh faces suspension from the Sports Ministry due to alleged breaches of the constitution. The ministry cited 'hasty' announcements of national competitions without following proper procedures. Sanjay Singh's sweeping victory over Commonwealth Games gold medallist Anita Sheoran raised concerns, with the ministry claiming the body's influence by former office bearers linked to harassment allegations. The suspension underscores the need for adherence to the WFI constitution, highlighting potential irregularities in the federation's formation. The ministry asserts that the decisions made lacked proper consideration and accused the newly-formed body of being under the control of individuals facing harassment allegations.

Sandeep Reddy Vanga's cinematic spectacle, 'Animal,' starring Ranbir Kapoor and Bobby Deol, has transcended expectations, securing its position as the 4th highest Indian grosser in North America. Released globally on December 1, the film swiftly crossed the ₹800 crore mark worldwide within a mere three weeks. A box office force, 'Animal' also claims the title of the top-grossing Indian film in Canada. The North American box office success is highlighted by the film's momentum toward the coveted $15 million mark. As 2023 concludes, 'Animal' stands tall, a cinematic triumph resonating globally in the year's filmography.

In a significant revelation, the US has officially confirmed that the drone responsible for striking an Israel-linked vessel off the Gujarat coast was "fired from Iran," marking the seventh such attack since 2021. The targeted vessel, MV Chem Pluto, a Liberia-flagged tanker carrying crude oil and crewed by 20 Indians, sustained damage but reported no casualties. According to a Pentagon spokesperson, "The motor vessel Chem Pluto...was struck...by a one-way attack drone fired from Iran." The incident occurred in the Indian Ocean, 200 nautical miles from India's coast. The Indian Navy is investigating the attack's origin, while the vessel, facing steering issues, is anticipated to reach Mumbai under the escort of the Indian Coast Guard. Tensions escalate amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict and increased Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.

French authorities are set to decide the fate of 303 passengers, primarily Indians, stranded at Chalons-Vatry airport since Thursday over suspected "human trafficking." The plane, originating from Dubai en route to Nicaragua, was detained following an anonymous tip. Hearings before a judge will determine whether the passengers continue their detention. The airport has been transformed into a waiting area for foreigners, with legal proceedings expected to be unprecedented and urgent. The passengers are to appear before the judge from 9 am this Sunday until Monday. Among the passengers are 11 unaccompanied minors, and six have reportedly sought asylum in France. The airline, Legend Airlines, denies involvement in trafficking and awaits cooperation with French authorities for a swift resolution.

The Red Sea witnessed heightened tensions as an Indian-flagged crude oil tanker, MV Saibaba, was hit by a Houthi attack drone. Promptly alerting a nearby US warship, the Gabon-owned tanker reported no injuries. In a parallel event, the US Navy destroyer USS Laboon intercepted four Houthi attack drones, averting potential harm. These incidents mark the 14th and 15th attacks on commercial shipping by Houthi militants since October. The US military remains engaged amid escalating threats in the Red Sea. Simultaneously, the Indian Navy and Coast Guard are actively supporting MV Saibaba, reinforcing security measures in this critical maritime passage.            

In a shocking turn of events, retired Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mohammad Shafi Mir was ruthlessly gunned down by terrorists while reciting Azan in a mosque in Gantamulla Bala, Baramulla district, Jammu and Kashmir. The assailants mercilessly fired upon Mir, leading to his tragic demise. Swiftly responding, the J&K police cordoned off the area, launching a comprehensive investigation into the act of terror. This distressing incident follows a recent attack on a police inspector in Srinagar, underscoring the persistent security challenges in the region. As the community mourns Mir's loss, authorities intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators, ensuring justice prevails in the face of this reprehensible crime.