Tragically, in southern Russia, a gas explosion in a residential building in Cherkessk has left five people dead and four injured, leading to concerns about safety standards and prompting a criminal investigation due to potential violations.

Moving on to international trade, the Gulf Cooperation Council and New Zealand have signed a free-trade agreement in Doha, aiming to strengthen their economic cooperation by removing trade barriers, which could enhance bilateral trade that reached $2.9 billion in 2023.

In sports, Saleh Al Shehri's critical first-half goal secured a 1-0 win for Al Ittihad in the Jeddah Sea Derby, keeping them a close contender against league leaders Al Hilal, while their rivals Al Ahli face pressure to improve their form.

Meanwhile, in a significant historical acknowledgment, French President Emmanuel Macron has recognized the French responsibility in the killing of Algerian independence leader Larbi Ben M’hidi in 1957, although he stopped short of issuing a formal apology.

In economic news, Israel's cabinet has approved a substantial $162 billion wartime budget geared towards security amid conflicts with Hamas and Hezbollah, a decision stirring debate over its potential impact on the country's economy.

Lastly, turning to Lebanon, Israeli airstrikes in southern Beirut have intensified, targeting Hezbollah-linked sites and causing massive destruction, as part of an ongoing military operation that has already resulted in over 1,829 deaths since late September.