Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced preparations for a ground invasion of Gaza to eradicate Hamas, the controlling terror group, following their unprecedented attacks on October 7. Netanyahu, addressing the nation, emphasized the gravity of the situation, describing it as a "fight for our existence." He highlighted Israel's efforts to eliminate terrorists while refraining from divulging specific operation details. The conflict has led to over 6500 casualties in Gaza, prompting the Biden administration to push for a 'humanitarian pause' to address the growing crisis with dwindling essential supplies in the Palestinian enclave.

As reported by The Wall Street Journal, Iran's elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps provided specialized combat training to 500 members of Palestinian terror groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad. The training occurred in Iran before a coordinated attack on Israel, involving land, air, and sea operations. Senior members of Hamas and Hezbollah confirmed Iran's involvement, disclosing that Iranian officers collaborated with Hamas since August. The plan aimed to create a multi-front threat, encircling Israel from all sides. In response, Israel conducted airstrikes in Gaza, resulting in over 6,500 casualties claimed by Palestinian authorities. International pressure mounts as world powers urge a temporary halt to the conflict and increased aid to Gaza.

President Joe Biden expressed skepticism about the over 6,500 death toll in Gaza reported by Palestinian authorities, saying he has "no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using." Biden said he is sure innocents have been killed but it's the "price of waging war." He urged Israel to be careful in targeting only militants propagating the conflict. Hamas reports over 6,500 Palestinians killed, including 2,700 children. Biden stated Israel should minimize civilian casualties but asserted that Hamas is also hiding behind Palestinians, burdening Israel's military response. His comments drew criticism from Palestinians who insist the numbers are accurate and show the impact on civilians. 

A massive manhunt is underway in Maine after a gunman identified as Robert Card killed 22 people and injured dozens more in a shooting rampage across Lewiston. The 40-year-old former military officer opened fire in a bowling alley and restaurant before fleeing in a white SUV. Police have warned Card is armed and dangerous and have urged residents to shelter in place. Card has a history of mental health issues and domestic violence. The back-to-back shootings have shocked the community, with the mayor saying he is "heartbroken." The incident has renewed calls for tighter gun control amid opposition from Republicans.

As Diwali approaches, like every year Delhi's air quality becomes an issue of concern.  According to SAFAR-India data, the national capital's air quality stayed in the 'poor' range on Thursday with an AQI of 256. Areas around Delhi University saw very poor air at 316 AQI. Gurugram was moderate at 176 AQI, while Noida was poor at 256. The drop in air quality is due to lower temperatures, slower winds, and emissions from firecrackers during Dussehra, stubble burning, and vehicles that allow pollutants to accumulate. Ahead of Diwali, authorities have re-launched the "Red Light On, Gaadi Off" campaign and urged neighboring states to ban firecrackers to curb pollution. With winter approaching, once again the national capital braces for hazardous air pollution.

India's High Commission in Canada announced the resumption of some visa services starting from October 26. This move aims to ease tensions stemming from the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. India had previously suspended new Canadian visas and called for a reduction in Canada's diplomatic presence due to allegations of a potential link between Indian agents and the murder, which Canada partially addressed by withdrawing 41 diplomats. India, however, denies any involvement in the shooting. The High Commission will now issue standard entry, business, medical, and conference visas, citing a reassessment of the security situation and recent Canadian actions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accepted the invitation from the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust to inaugurate the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024. The temple's construction committee aims to complete the ground floor of the three-storey temple by December this year. The installation of Lord Ram's idol in the Garbhagriha is set for January 22, 2024. This significant development follows the 2019 Supreme Court verdict, allowing the construction of the temple at the disputed site and the allocation of an alternative five-acre plot for a mosque.          

In a Canadian Dussehra event, Khalistan supporters stirred controversy by burning an effigy adorned with Indian PM Modi, Amit Shah, and others' faces, wrapped in the Indian tricolor. The act, accompanied by Pro Khalistani slogans, triggered outrage. In response, an Indian Sikh named Jyot Jeet Singh gained attention for burning an effigy featuring Khalistani terrorist Pannu, sparking a viral reaction on social media. 

Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar emphasized an end to the era of leniency towards social media platforms, stating that strict accountability will be enforced globally. Chandrasekhar's comments followed a US federal lawsuit against Meta, accusing the company of harming young users' mental health. He highlighted the need for platforms to be more accountable, insisting that the days of immunity are over. Chandrasekhar affirmed India's commitment to ensuring citizens' protection, indicating a zero-tolerance policy for non-compliance with IT rules. Meta, criticized for prioritizing profit over user security, defended its efforts to keep teens safe online amid growing scrutiny.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak completes one year in office, succeeding Liz Truss amid challenges. The 43-year-old faced Labour leader Keir Starmer in Parliament, emphasizing a working day without celebration. Sunak acknowledged achievements but stressed more work ahead, addressing the nation's challenges. Conservative Chairman Greg Hands praised Sunak's actions, citing support for families, economic growth, and global conflicts. Anti-incumbency challenges persist as the UK gears up for a general election next year, with the Conservatives trailing behind Labour in polls.