Japan has approved a record defense budget to bolster its military capabilities amid rising tensions with China. The plan includes major investments in missiles, drones, and international defense projects. Parliamentary approval is needed for the budget to take effect.

Georgetown University ended its association with a United Nations expert accused of antisemitism, drawing praise from critics. Authorities in Australia revealed new details about the Bondi Beach attack, while Israel disputed a United Nations report on Gaza. Calls for stronger action against antisemitism continue to grow.

Iran is rebuilding missile production sites, potentially enabling the production of hundreds of missiles monthly. Israeli officials warn this poses a grave threat and say it will not be tolerated.

Pope Leo XIV quoted Israeli poet Yehuda Amichai during his Christmas sermon to emphasize a universal longing for peace. The poem was the only non-Christian source cited in the address.

The family of Gur Kehati, a fallen Golani soldier, has removed his military headstone in protest. His mother highlighted his lifelong dedication and the personal sacrifices he made for the country.

Nazareth is welcoming back pilgrims and tourists for the first time since the war in Gaza began, reviving its Christmas celebrations. The return of visitors brings hope and joy to the local community, though numbers remain below pre-war levels. Festivities and spiritual journeys are once again filling the ancient city.

A Hamas official has accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement and hindering Gaza's reconstruction. The search for the body of Ran Gvili, the last hostage, is ongoing.

Marty Supreme is a frenetic, character-driven tale of a 1950s table tennis hustler, starring Timothee Chalamet. The Housemaid offers a predictable but entertaining thriller set in a wealthy Long Island mansion.

Former hostage Romi Gonen has recounted repeated sexual assaults by her captors during her time in Gaza, describing the ordeal in a televised interview. She detailed the abuse, threats, and psychological torment she endured throughout her captivity.

A settler reservist rammed an ATV into a praying Palestinian man in the West Bank, prompting a military investigation and suspension of the soldier. Additional violent incidents by settlers, including an attack that injured a baby, were reported as tensions continue to escalate in the region.

A Palestinian father claims an Israeli reservist intentionally tried to kill his son by ramming him with an all-terrain vehicle. The military has suspended the reservist and confiscated his weapon following the incident.

A key panel is reviewing Roman Gofman's nomination as Mossad chief due to his involvement in a controversial influence operation with a minor. The committee was reportedly surprised by his testimony and is seeking more information. Gofman's appointment has drawn criticism from security officials.