A roundup of the most bizarre and hilarious moments that made headlines in 2024, including Donald Trump's false claim about Haitian immigrants eating dogs, Rishi Sunak's soggy speech, and the Gallagher brothers' reunion announcement.

An 80-year-old Palestinian woman was shot and killed by Israeli forces during a raid in the West Bank.

Labour runners and riders for the next London mayoral election are beginning to emerge, with potential candidates including Stella Creasy, Florence Eshalomi, Dawn Butler, and Dr Rosena Allin Khan. There is a growing consensus that the next mayor should be a woman. Other potential candidates include Georgia Gould, Mete Coban, and David Lammy. The next mayoral contest is scheduled for 2028.

Tony Blair courted Syria's Assad in the early days of his regime, but their relationship soured over time. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer welcomed Assad's fall but expressed caution about the future of Syria.

Saudi Arabia has won the bid to host the 2034 World Cup, raising questions about the country's selection process and human rights record.

Eurovision Song Contest organisers have announced new measures for the 2025 event in Basel to protect artists' wellbeing after controversies at this year's competition.

The family of US journalist Austin Tice, who has been held captive in Syria for 12 years, is hopeful of his return following the fall of Bashar al Assad's regime.

Sir Keir Starmer is visiting the UAE and Saudi Arabia to build closer economic ties, benefiting the north of England. Graphene Innovation Manchester has secured a deal with Saudi Arabia for a major construction project. Calls have been made for Sir Keir to address human rights issues in Saudi Arabia.

Syria faces ongoing military action and uncertainty as rebel leaders try to heal a divided nation. Israel and the US launch airstrikes to prevent Islamic State from taking advantage and secure chemical weapons. Concerns are raised about the safety of Russian bases in the country.

Sir Keir Starmer welcomes fall of Assad regime in Syria and urges political way forward. He visits Middle East to discuss economic partnerships and deepen defence ties with UAE and KSA.

President Bashar al Assad has been granted asylum in Moscow on 'humanitarian' grounds after his government fell following a lightning offensive. Syrians celebrated in the streets and ransacked presidential residences as Assad fled.

The Syrian government has collapsed, falling to a rebel offensive. The fall of Assad was brought about swiftly due to pressure from three different rebel groups and the limited commitment of Russia and Iran.

Rebel forces in Syria are closing in on the capital, Damascus, posing a threat to President Bashar al Assad's rule. Government forces have been losing ground to the rebels, who have seized major cities across the country.

Australia's prime minister has blamed antisemitism for an arson attack on a synagogue in Melbourne.

China's dominance in electric vehicle production and battery manufacturing is causing disruption in the car industry, particularly in Europe. European carmakers are struggling to compete with China's low-cost production, and many countries have imposed tariffs on Chinese EV imports to protect their domestic industries.

Donald Trump wants a Gaza ceasefire deal before he takes power, according to the prime minister of Qatar. Negotiations have been unsuccessful so far, and there are concerns about the human rights record of Qatar.

It's been more than 1,000 days since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine, with both sides showing no sign of giving up. Ukraine is struggling to hold back the Russian advance and is heavily reliant on Western military support.

Residents in Lebanon have mixed feelings about the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, with some hopeful and stoic while others are uncertain about its stability.

Donald Trump warns of consequences if Gaza hostages are not released before inauguration.

The Princess of Wales made a rare public appearance as the emir of Qatar and his wife began a two-day state visit to the UK. The Queen missed the open-air greeting and a carriage ride back to Buckingham Palace, after pulling out on Monday.

Syrian rebels, including HTS, have attacked Aleppo and taken control of other major areas, raising concerns about another violent front opening in the Middle East.

President Joe Biden has pardoned his son Hunter, who was convicted of firearm charges and federal tax charges. Hunter pleaded guilty to the charges and was due to be sentenced in December. However, President Biden issued a pardon for him, allowing him to avoid prison time.

A nine-year-old Palestinian boy has been left paralysed after being shot in the neck by Israeli soldiers in the occupied West Bank. The death toll of Palestinian children killed by Israel in shootings and airstrikes in the occupied West Bank has doubled since October 2023.

Sir Keir Starmer faces his first foreign policy challenge as he delivers his first speech to the annual Lord Mayor's Banquet in the City of London. He is quietly building a reliable team to navigate the UK's relationships with other countries.

Thousands visit shrine in Lebanon to honor former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and express their admiration, while vowing to avenge his death.

Former Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond was remembered as an 'inspiration' and a 'political genius' at a memorial service in Edinburgh. Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon did not attend the service, and the Proclaimers performed a pro-independence song.

Aleppo airport and major roads closed as anti-regime rebels reach the heart of the city, responding to increased strikes on civilians by Russian and Syrian air forces.

Hezbollah flags still fly in Lebanon as the fragile peace deal continues to hold. People are returning and clearing up despite the destruction caused by heavy bombardment.

Syrian rebels breach Aleppo for the first time since 2016, seizing towns and villages along the way. Ongoing offensive results in civilian deaths and prompts residents to flee.

Six-time British Superbike champion Shane Byrne has won a High Court claim over the 'catastrophic' injuries he suffered during a race in 2018.

The annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade in New York was disrupted by protests over the conflict in Gaza for the second year in a row.

Qatar's sovereign wealth fund, QIA, is purchasing a 30% stake in the Audi F1 team, marking its first major investment in elite motorsport. The deal is worth hundreds of millions of dollars and highlights the trend of wealthy Arab nations investing in global sports teams and leagues. The QIA plans to provide significant financial resources to improve the Audi team's performance and play an active role in enhancing the sport's sustainability.

Hezbollah has vowed to continue its resistance to Israel after the ceasefire came into effect.

Israel imposes curfew in Lebanon as ceasefire with Hezbollah begins.

The article covers the recent PMQs session between Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch, David Lammy's appearance at the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, and the Middle East ceasefire.

Breathtaking images, including a bright blue European roller bird annoying a bemused-looking owl, a badger checking out badger graffiti and a frightened baby cheetah cub waiting to be sold at market, are among those shortlisted for a prestigious photography award.

A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has begun, allowing people to return home and marking progress in diplomatic efforts in the region.

Israel and Hezbollah have reached a ceasefire deal, ending over a year of fighting. The agreement involves a 60-day halt in fighting, monitored by an international panel. Both sides reserve the right to retaliate if the agreement is broken. The US will continue efforts for a ceasefire in Gaza.

A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has been agreed, bringing some calm to Lebanon but with scepticism in Israel. The situation in Gaza remains complex with the lives of hostages at stake and a worsening humanitarian crisis.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald says she will demand a referendum on Irish unity if she wins Ireland's general election. She expects a vote on Irish reunification to take place by 2030.

Israel and Hezbollah are reportedly getting closer to reaching a ceasefire agreement, potentially ending the fighting that has caused thousands of deaths and injuries. The agreement could also allow people on both sides of the border to return home.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is accused of damaging growth with tax rises. Other political events include tackling violence against women, an AI arms race, VAT for private school fees, the COVID inquiry, and discussions on the Middle East.

A kayaker in Tasmania has had his leg amputated after becoming stuck between rocks in the Franklin River. A 20-hour rescue operation was launched and he remains in critical condition.

A residential building in central Beirut has been destroyed in an Israeli attack, and casualties are unknown. Israel has targeted central Beirut with airstrikes, and heavy fighting between Israel and Hezbollah continues in southern Lebanon.

The UK Home Secretary has refused to comment on whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would be arrested if he visited the country, following the issuance of an international arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The UK will scrap warships, military helicopters, and drones to save money despite growing threats from Russia and a war in Europe.

The G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro this week will address critical issues such as climate change, the crisis in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine, and global poverty. However, with the impending arrival of President-elect Donald Trump to the White House, there are concerns about what can be achieved in President Joe Biden's final act.

Pope Francis is urging an investigation into whether Israel has committed genocide in Gaza, according to a new book. The Pope also discusses migration and the importance of global cooperation.

New pictures show the moment of impact as an Israeli missile hit a Beirut apartment block and exploded. The block was one of five buildings destroyed by airstrikes on Friday alone.

Thousands in Gaza are forced to evacuate - as one woman says 'we don't know where we have to go'. More than a thousand Gazans have been killed in the area since the operation began on 5 October, according to figures from the UN, many of them from missile strikes on residential buildings or temporary camps.

Dr Adnan Al-Bursh, a famous surgeon, died in an Israeli prison after being taken from Gaza hospital during the conflict. Allegations of abuse were made during his detention.

The situation in northern Gaza has been described as 'apocalyptic' by acting UN aid chief Joyce Msuya, as Israel's military offensive against Hamas in the area continues.

Donald Trump is expected to name Florida Senator Marco Rubio as his secretary of state, according to US media reports.

Five more people have been arrested in connection with the attacks on Israeli football fans in Amsterdam, bringing the total number of arrests to 68.

A minute's silence at a Celtic match was interrupted by fans protesting against British 'hypocrisy' and the conflict in Palestine.

Sir Keir Starmer will be the first UK prime minister to mark Armistice Day in France since Winston Churchill. He will attend Armistice Day commemorations in France on Monday and meet President Emmanuel Macron to discuss the wars in Ukraine and Gaza.

More than 100 pro-Palestinian protesters have been taken away by police during a banned demonstration in Amsterdam after 'antisemitic' violence took place following a football game this week.

Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump share a similar stance on Iran, according to Netanyahu. The two leaders have had important conversations since the election to strengthen their alliance.

The head of the UK armed forces has stated that the country is prepared for war, despite recent concerns about military readiness. Admiral Sir Tony Radakin emphasised the importance of supporting Ukraine and the need for the UK to be even stronger in the future. He highlighted the high casualty rate among Russian troops in the warzone and stressed the significance of NATO membership. Concerns have been raised about US support for the alliance following the re-election of Donald Trump.

Police in Amsterdam are using a life-size hologram of a murdered sex worker to try to solve a cold case. The hologram will show the victim reaching out for help, and police hope it will encourage witnesses to come forward.

Israel is sending a rescue mission to Amsterdam following a violent incident targeting Israeli citizens.

With the possibility of a second term, Trump 2.0 may be more organized and knowledgeable about who to hire. His power will be different, with a powerful mandate and control of both Houses of Congress. His agenda includes scrapping the department of education, mass deportations of illegal immigrants, tax cuts, and an overhaul of the federal government.

US allies and enemies are scrambling to adjust after Donald Trump's victory in the presidential election.

Can a Labour prime minister get on well with a Republican US president? Or a Conservative PM with a Democrat in the White House? The short answer is yes, absolutely.

Sky's US correspondent James Matthews explores the global implications of Donald Trump's return to office after a decisive election victory.

The UK has sanctioned a Russian military officer accused of Salisbury novichok poisoning. The Foreign Office has imposed sanctions on people and entities linked to Russia, including the Wagner mercenary group and companies based in China, Turkey, and central Asia supplying parts to Russia.

Israeli strikes in Lebanon kill 40, while Gaza response expands. War in Gaza has claimed over 43,000 Palestinian lives and is described as absolute despair.

Donald Trump's return to the White House could have significant implications for global wars and European security. His track record of unpredictability poses challenges for both traditional foes and allies, particularly NATO members.

Large groups of youths in Edinburgh have been throwing fireworks, bricks, and bottles at police during Bonfire Night, causing disorder across the city.

The US presidential election outcome will not just affect Americans, but people around the world. Among the British public, there is a clear preference for Kamala Harris to win.

Donald Trump and Kamala Harris have one final day to win over voters in a US presidential campaign that will be decided in just a handful of states.

Israel claims to have captured a senior Hezbollah operative in a raid in northern Lebanon, marking the first time troops have been deployed that far north during the campaign against Hezbollah.

Kemi Badenoch, the first black woman to be elected leader of the Conservatives, faces the challenge of unifying the party and igniting grassroots support after winning a close victory in the leadership race.

Musicians in war zones are using music as a form of resistance and escapism, providing a space to share their experiences and unite people.

An 18-month-old boy and his 10-year-old sister are among 25 people who were killed in a series of Israeli strikes on central parts of Gaza, hospital officials have said. Meanwhile, Israeli attacks have left 30 dead in Lebanon in the past 24 hours, the Lebanese health ministry has said.

Tens of thousands of people have been displaced in Lebanon after Israeli airstrikes, seeking shelter in schools and relief centers.

Charity demands UK evacuate 21 critically ill children from besieged hospital in Gaza.

Lebanon's caretaker PM hopes for a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah, including Israeli forces' withdrawal and self-defense rights.

Israel's defence minister insists Naim Kassem's appointment as Hezbollah's new leader is likely to be temporary, as he lacks the charisma and personality of his predecessor, Hassan Nasrallah.

Israel retaliates against Iran with airstrikes, targeting military sites. Intense campaigns against Hamas and Hezbollah continue in Gaza and Lebanon.

Lebanon's internal refugees who have fled Israeli bombing in the south of the country face racism, discrimination, and evictions as they search for safety.

One person killed and dozens injured after truck rams bus stop near Tel Aviv. Iranian leaders respond to Israeli strikes. Truck collided with passengers and bus, leaving over 30 injured. Authorities treating incident as a terror attack. Israeli strikes in Gaza kill at least 22 people, including women and children.

Iran's president warns against further attacks after Israel airstrikes hit military targets. Israel's opposition leader criticizes decision to avoid 'strategic and economic targets'.

The IDF has confirmed airstrikes on Tehran, and the scale of the damage will determine the next steps in the conflict.

The scale of retaliation will determine if Iran and Israel are headed towards all-out war, as Israel's announcement of only targeting military sites is crucial.

Explosions heard in Tehran as Israel confirms strikes on military targets in Iran. Iran warns of stronger retaliation.

The head of the World Health Organisation has expressed concern over reports of an Israeli raid on a hospital in northern Gaza. Palestinian officials and medics at the Kamal Adwan Hospital have said that Israeli Defence Forces stormed the facility after it was fired upon by tanks. The IDF has stated that it conducted operations in the area based on intelligence information regarding the presence of terrorists and terrorist infrastructure. The situation remains unclear, with reports of hostilities and evacuation orders.

Al Jazeera has accused Israel of a 'baseless fabrication' after six of its journalists were accused of being 'terrorists'. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) claims it has found documents and computer files proving that the six, who are all based in Gaza, have long-standing links to Hamas or Islamic Jihad.

Israel will send a delegation to Doha to meet with US and Qatari officials for Gaza peace talks. The delegation will join Qatari officials and US diplomats to restart negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release deal.

The Israel-Lebanon border has turned into a warzone, with rockets and drones being fired daily. The Israeli army blames the UN for failing to prevent armed groups from operating in southern Lebanon.

Kuwait has withdrawn approval for Call of Duty, a popular video game featuring Saddam Hussein, effectively banning its release in the country.

Sky News and NBC News have launched a new podcast called The World With Richard Engel And Yalda Hakim. The latest episode covers the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and the potential for reprisals against Western leaders. They also discuss the involvement of Kim Jong Un's troops in the war against Ukraine and the threat posed by North Korea, Russia, China, and Iran.

Sir Keir Starmer warns that Russian attacks on the Black Sea are causing delays in delivering vital aid to Palestinians and hindering grain supplies to the global south.

Explosions have occurred in Beirut after Israel threatened to attack Hezbollah's financial sites. Strikes are likely to occur all over Lebanon.

A man with suspected ties to the Islamic State has been arrested in Germany for planning an attack on the Israeli embassy in Berlin.

A drone was launched at Benjamin Netanyahu's house while more than 50 people have been killed in Gaza in the last 24 hours. Israel also killed the deputy commander of Hezbollah and Iran's Supreme Leader says Hamas will live on.