The US and UK urged India to reconsider its demand for Canada to reduce its diplomatic presence in India and expressed concern after Canada withdrew 41 diplomats due to a dispute over the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and Khalistani terrorist. The US State Department spokesperson, Matthew Miller, said they are worried about the departure of Canadian diplomats and called for cooperation in the ongoing investigation. Britain's Foreign Office also criticized the Indian government's decisions, citing the Vienna Convention. This marks a direct criticism by Washington and London of India in this case.

Three-time Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, leader of the PML-N, returns to Islamabad after a 4-year self-imposed exile in the UK. His comeback is anticipated to rejuvenate the party's influence ahead of the 2024 elections, as Pakistan grapples with security, economic, and political crises. Sharif's return is met with enthusiasm, with senior PML-N figures expressing optimism for the country's future. The homecoming rally at Greater Iqbal Park is expected to draw significant crowds, signaling a pivotal moment in Pakistani politics. Sharif, previously disqualified in 2017 over corruption allegations, receives protective bail upon his return.

The UK is facing a second rare red weather alert for rain, with hundreds of flood warnings in place as Storm Babet continues its onslaught. The Met Office has issued a "danger to life" warning in Scotland's Grampian and Central, Tayside & Fife regions, where up to 100mm (4in) of rain could fall in 24 hours. Across England, 339 red flood warnings are in effect. Three people have lost their lives, leading to major incidents being declared in affected areas, as the country grapples with high winds, torrential rain, and severe flooding.

Former cricketer and Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh posted on X (formerly Twitter) to reveal a glimpse of Punjab's latest cricketing pride—a newly constructed stadium in Mallapur. Singh extended congratulations to Dilsher Khanna, the Secretary of Punjab Cricket Association, and all stakeholders involved. Expressing his excitement, Singh mentioned his eagerness to host a game for Team India at the state-of-the-art facility. The stadium stands ready, promising to be a hub for thrilling cricket matches and a source of pride for Punjab's cricket enthusiasts.

Trucks carrying essential humanitarian aid for the beleaguered Gaza Strip crossed into the territory through the Rafah border crossing from Egypt. This development occurred on the 15th day of the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The aid, managed by the Egyptian Red Crescent in coordination with various UN agencies, aims to address critical shortages of water, electricity, fuel, and food caused by the conflict. Rafah is the sole entry point into Gaza not controlled by Israel, permitted to allow aid following a request from the United States. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the vital importance of these aid deliveries, stating they are a lifeline for countless lives in Gaza.

Indian Embassy officials in Israel met community representatives, pledging full assistance amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The embassy confirmed the meeting on social media, emphasizing support for the Indian community during these challenging times. India's 'Operation Ajay' successfully evacuated 1200 Indian nationals, including 18 Nepali citizens, from Israel. The Ministry of External Affairs clarified that four Indians are in Gaza, 12-13 in West Bank, denying reports of Indian casualties in Gaza. The ongoing evacuation operation, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to bring back 18,000 Indians from Israel.

Israel's National Security Council has raised travel warnings for Egypt (including Sinai) and Jordan to level 4, advising citizens to leave these countries immediately due to escalating tensions in the wake of the Gaza conflict. This move follows widespread protests in the Middle East against Israel's actions in Gaza. The advisory coincides with Israel recalling diplomats from Turkey for security reasons. The conflict originated with Hamas incursions into Israel, resulting in the capture of hostages and the tragic deaths of over 1,400 people, primarily civilians, according to Israeli sources. Israel's intensified response in Gaza has claimed 4,137 Palestinian lives, mainly civilians, states the Hamas-run health ministry.

The signing of the UK-India trade deal, previously speculated to occur during a cricket world cup match in India next week, faces delay due to lack of progress in India's market openness for British professional services. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was expected to sign the deal on October 29 in Lucknow, but talks hit an impasse. India offers less access to law and accounting services compared to the UK's deal with Australia. Both countries emphasize the need for a fair and balanced agreement. Negotiations continue amidst the desire to sign before upcoming general elections in both nations.

Storm Babet persists in battering the UK, causing widespread flooding and chaos. Three people have died, and one person remains missing in Aberdeenshire. High winds and torrential rain prompted a second red alert within a week, primarily affecting Angus and Aberdeenshire. Six Scottish football matches have been postponed, and ScotRail suspended several train lines. Brechin witnesses severe flooding, described as a "scene of carnage." Leeds Bradford Airport is set to reopen, but around 13,000 households remain without power. Authorities urge caution as the storm rages on, with more torrential rain expected.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau faced backlash during a visit to a Toronto mosque over his response to the Israel-Hamas conflict. A video showed some in the mosque urging a facilitator not to let Trudeau speak. Protesters outside the mosque also pushed for Trudeau to advocate for a ceasefire. The backlash comes as Trudeau's caucus is divided on the conflict, with some Liberal MPs signing a letter demanding Canada call for an immediate ceasefire and uphold international law protecting civilians. Tensions heightened after Hamas killed 1,400 Israelis in an October 7 attack. The viral video depicts the anger Trudeau is facing from some in Canada's Muslim community over his handling of the crisis.