Prince Harry celebrates a legal victory as a UK high court judge rules that the Daily Mirror extensively hacked his phone from 2003 to 2009. In a significant blow to media practices, the judge acknowledges illegal information gathering and cover-ups by Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN). The Duke of Sussex hails the decision as a "great day for truth" and calls for authorities to investigate charges against the company. The judgment exposes widespread unlawful behavior, leading to £140,600 in damages for Harry. The case sheds light on press intrusion and prompts calls for accountability in British media.

Two cargo ships in the Red Sea were attacked by missiles launched from Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, according to the US. The vessels, including one owned by German company Hapag-Lloyd, were struck in the strategic Bab El Mandab strait. The Houthis, backed by Iran, declared support for Hamas, targeting ships in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The US acknowledges the attacks and emphasizes the Houthis as a "material threat" to shipping. Pressure mounts on the US to respond, but targeting Houthi sites may risk broader conflict. The Bab El Mandab Strait, crucial for global trade, has witnessed previous attacks, impacting insurance premiums and shipping routes.

An Uttar Pradesh court on Friday convicted sitting BJP MLA Ramdular Gond of raping a minor girl in 2014, sentencing him to 25 years in prison. The MP-MLA court in Sonbhadra also ordered the Duddhi constituency legislator to pay a steep fine of Rs 10 lakhs. The case dates back to 2014 when the survivor's brother filed a police complaint under the POCSO Act, alleging that Gond, who was not an MLA at the time, had raped his sister. After a prolonged legal battle, Gond was found guilty earlier this week. The judge handed down the punishment on Friday. As per the law, Gond now faces imminent disqualification from the state legislative assembly due to the over two-year sentence. The survivor's family expressed relief over finally getting justice after a difficult struggle.

The Indian government issues a high-risk alert for Samsung Galaxy phone users, citing multiple vulnerabilities that could compromise security. The advisory from CERT-In emphasizes the urgency of updating the phone's operating system or firmware to mitigate risks. Vulnerabilities affect Samsung Mobile Android versions 11 to 14, posing threats like unauthorized access, data theft, and code execution. Users are urged to promptly install Samsung's released fix to safeguard against potential cyber threats. Neglecting updates could expose phones to security breaches, allowing hackers to exploit weaknesses.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government is exploring a potential crackdown on social media access for children under 16, including possible bans, according to sources familiar with early-stage discussions. Ministers plan to launch a consultation in January to gather evidence on potential harms to kids from using platforms like Facebook and Twitter. While bans are under discussion, measures like improved parental controls have not been ruled out. Sunak's team says they are "looking broadly" at ways to better protect children online. The UK recently passed an Online Safety Act forcing sites to boost protections, especially for minors. Any policy changes remain speculative for now as talks are in early days.

Vanita Gupta, the first Indian-American US Associate Attorney General, is set to step down early next year. Appointed in April 2021, Gupta, a proponent of pro-choice movements and police reforms, has been integral to the Department of Justice. US Attorney General Merrick Garland praised her commitment to justice and collaborative leadership. Gupta's achievements include leading the DOJ's reproductive rights task force, combating violent crime, and supporting victims. Expected to depart in February 2024, Gupta's legacy spans civil rights leadership in the Obama administration and significant contributions to justice-focused initiatives.

Google Maps unveils a new feature, "eco-friendly routing," available in select countries and soon to launch in India. Users can now choose energy-efficient routes, reducing fuel usage and CO2 emissions. The feature suggests alternative routes based on a vehicle's engine type, showing estimates for fuel or energy efficiency. Two-wheelers in India will also benefit from fuel-efficient route options. To activate, users navigate to settings, tap "Prefer fuel-efficient routes," and select their engine type. Google emphasizes the AI-driven feature considers hills, traffic, and constant speeds for optimal efficiency.   [Representative image]

In a significant move, Mumbai Indians name Hardik Pandya as captain for IPL 2024, succeeding Rohit Sharma's decade-long captaincy. The decision aligns with MI's legacy building philosophy, focusing on future readiness. Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to victory in 2022, returns to MI after a trade. Mahela Jayawardene emphasizes the transition as part of the team's legacy and vision. Rohit, with five IPL titles and 6211 runs, steps down after a remarkable stint. Pandya, already India's T20I captain, now leads MI into a new era.

The White House is pressing Israel to shift the Gaza war strategy towards precise targeting of Hamas leaders instead of widespread bombing, according to national security adviser Jake Sullivan. The transition timeline remains uncertain. Israel, facing global pressure, has resisted altering its offensive that has claimed nearly 19,000 Palestinian lives. Sullivan, after discussions with Israeli leaders, emphasizes the shift's timing is an ongoing intensive discussion. The U.S. seeks results aligning with Israel's assurances on civilian-militant distinction. President Biden warns of shifting international opinion due to high civilian casualties.

Tipu Sultan is again at the centre of a Congress vs. BJP squabble in Karnataka after  MLA Prasad Abbayya from the ruling party suggested renaming Mysuru Airport to Tipu Sultan Airport. The proposal triggered opposition protests, with the BJP framing it as a Hindu vs. Muslim narrative against their icon, VD Savarkar. Historically contentious, Tipu Sultan's legacy has been exploited for political polarization, which intensified ahead of the 2023 Assembly elections. BJP state chief Nalin Kateel even urged locals to "kill... followers" of Tipu. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also criticized the Congress. The row over Tipu Sultan - who historians believe was a fierce opponent of British rule in India, and died in battle against them dates back to 2016, when the then Congress government led by Siddaramaiah began celebrating his birthday on November 10.