Israel has deployed additional tanks and soldiers near the Gaza border, awaiting a green light for the next stage of the conflict as a potential ground invasion of the Palestinian enclave looms. This comes as UK PM Rishi Sunak pledged support to Israel in its "darkest hour" and branded Hamas the "new Nazis" during a meeting with Israeli PM Netanyahu. Meanwhile, PM Modi spoke to Palestinian President Abbas to convey condolences over civilian deaths in an Israeli strike on a Gaza hospital that killed hundreds, triggering global outrage. India reiterated its long-standing position on Israel-Palestine as the crisis escalates. The military buildup signals Israel is gearing up for further decisive action in Gaza despite growing international calls for de-escalation.

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has passionately called for peace and immediate humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza. In a widely shared video posted on his social media profiles, the Egyptian footballer has urged world leaders to take action to "prevent further slaughter." His emotional plea, viewed by tens of millions, resonates with a global audience and underscores the pressing need for essential assistance to reach those affected by the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Salah's appeal highlights the urgency of the situation and the necessity of international support for Gaza.

The US and UK Embassies in Beirut have urged citizens to leave Lebanon amid escalating border tensions between Israel and Hezbollah due to the Israel-Hamas war. The advisory comes as Hezbollah and Palestinian factions continue cross-border fire with Israel, leading to heightened security concerns. The US State Department raised its travel advisory for Lebanon to the highest level, emphasizing the unpredictable situation. Several countries, including France, Germany, Canada, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, have also warned against travel to Lebanon. Demonstrations in Beirut against a Gaza hospital strike have further intensified the situation.

At China's Belt and Road project summit, President Xi Jinping welcomed world leaders, including Russia's Vladimir Putin. However, just before Putin's speech, several delegates, including former French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin, walked out of the event. Videos showed Putin carrying a nuclear briefcase, adding to the intrigue. In his speech, Putin thanked Xi for the invitation, emphasizing Russia and China's desire for equal cooperation. Notably, this marked Putin's second overseas trip since the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant, highlighting China's immunity to such warrants.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas amidst the Israel-Gaza conflict, offering condolences for the loss of civilian lives at Gaza's Al Ahli Hospital. Modi affirmed India's commitment to providing humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people in a tweet. During their conversation, the leaders discussed concerns about escalating terrorism, violence, and the deteriorating security situation in the region. Modi also reiterated India's longstanding principled stance on the Israel-Palestine issue. This diplomatic exchange underscores India's engagement with the ongoing Middle East crisis and its support for those affected by the conflict.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak voiced support for Israel's right to self-defense in the ongoing conflict with Hamas, declaring, "We want you to win." Sunak's statement came during his joint appearance with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He emphasized solidarity and hoped for progress in providing essential humanitarian aid to Gaza following President Biden's recent agreement with Israel. Sunak's visit to Israel was followed by a planned trip to Saudi Arabia. Efforts are ongoing to deliver aid to Gaza and address the humanitarian crisis while international leaders express their stance on the conflict

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has announced the annual Diwali on the Square celebration will take place at Trafalgar Square on October 29. The free public event from 1-7pm will feature dances, music, activities, and food that capture the festival's spirit. Attendees can enjoy performances by London's Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities, yoga workshops, puppet shows, and more. Mayor Khan hailed the event as embodying Diwali's symbolic victory of light over darkness. The family-friendly festivities aim to showcase London's diversity. Organizers anticipate the landmark Diwali celebrations will draw Londoners and visitors of all backgrounds. (Image Courtesy: Greater London Authority)

India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi stated that four Indians are in Gaza, and while the current situation hinders evacuation efforts, they will be repatriated at the earliest opportunity. The MEA condemned the terror attack on Israel and expressed concern over civilian casualties, emphasizing India's support for direct negotiations for a two-state solution. India urged international collaboration against terrorism. The statement follows a tragic airstrike on a Gaza hospital that killed over 500, leading to global condemnation. India has repatriated 1,200 people from Israel under Operation Ajay and provided significant aid to Palestine between 2000 and 2023.

In the ongoing India vs Bangladesh Cricket World Cup 2023 match at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune, Virat Kohli took the field as a bowler after a six-year hiatus, replacing the injured Hardik Pandya. Pandya, who suffered an ankle injury, had to retire after bowling just three deliveries. Kohli's return to bowling in a One Day International (ODI) match sparked excitement among fans, filling the Pune stadium with cheers. The video of Kohli bowling shared by ICC on Instagram garnered thousands of views and enthusiastic reactions from cricket enthusiasts.

A US Department of State official has resigned in protest of Washington's decision to increase military aid to Israel, expressing concerns about the US-backed Gaza conflict's impact on both Israelis and Palestinians. Josh Paul, a director in the State Department's Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, voiced his disapproval in an online note. He argued that the Biden administration was perpetuating longstanding mistakes and that supporting Israel's response and the status quo of occupation would result in more suffering for both sides. Paul cited "blind support for one side" leading to shortsighted, destructive, and unjust policy decisions as his reason for resignation after over 11 years involved in arms transfers to US allies.