In the Netherlands, a Dutch court has started hearing a case pushed by pro-Palestinian groups aiming to stop arms exports to Israel. This legal action comes as arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court target Israel's prime minister and former defense minister, amid accusations of genocide and apartheid.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has received an upgrade in its credit rating from Moody's to Aa3. This recognition highlights the nation's strides in economic diversification, particularly in reducing oil dependency and boosting non-oil sector growth, alongside a stable fiscal deficit.

Over in the United States, President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly setting up investigative units within the Department of Justice to probe supposed fraud in the 2020 election, despite his victory in the recent 2024 elections. His continued claims of fraud, despite facing federal charges last year, keep this saga alive.

In trade news, the U.S. is expanding its ban on imports from around 30 additional Chinese firms over concerns tied to Uyghur forced labor. This move, affecting companies in the metals and food sectors, seeks to curtail forced labor practices by those linked to the Xinjiang region.

Turning to the Middle East, escalating tensions have been marked by an Israeli airstrike in Beirut's Basta neighborhood, which resulted in significant casualties and destruction. This fourth strike within a week forms part of Israel's intensified operations against Hezbollah, while ceasefire talks, led by a U.S. mediator, attempt to quell hostilities.

In a more hopeful development, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center has been making substantial humanitarian efforts in Yemen. By providing crucial medical services and flood relief, particularly through artificial limb support and shelter agreements, KSrelief is transforming many lives in Yemen.