Asia-Pacific markets begin Christmas week higher; Nissan-Honda merger deal in focus

A British-Israeli woman, Emily Damari, held hostage by Hamas for over a year, criticized Sir Keir Starmer for his conditional pledge to recognize Palestine, equating it to a moral failure reminiscent of WWII. Starmer stated the UK would recognize a Palestinian state by September unless Israel takes significant steps to resolve the Gaza situation, prompting Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to denounce the move as rewarding terrorism. Want More Context? 🔎

On July 30, 2025, Palestinian man Abdulhadi Subh and his family scavenged for food scraps among waste materials in Yarmouk camp, Gaza City, due to severe starvation caused by the ongoing Israeli blockade that restricts food entry. They had previously migrated to the camp from Beit Lahia amidst intense Israeli attacks, highlighting the dire humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians. Want More Context? 🔎

US President Donald Trump stated he ended his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein after Epstein "stole" young women from his Mar-a-Lago spa, including Virginia Giuffre, who has accused Epstein and Prince Andrew of abuse. Amid scrutiny, Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's accomplice, is seeking legal protections to testify before Congress as pressure mounts for disclosures related to Epstein's activities. Want More Context? 🔎

About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk is a dedicated team of journalists committed to delivering up-to-date news and analysis for The Times of India readers globally. They ensure comprehensive coverage of breaking news and insightful reports on various topics, making them a trusted source for current events.Read More Want More Context? 🔎

The lawyer for Black Power member Royden Haenga, accused of murdering Hori Gage, claims the intent was to intimidate, not kill. Haenga and co-defendant Robert Richards are on trial for Gage's death, which the Crown alleges was retaliation for a previous attack on a gang president, despite Gage being uninvolved in that incident. Want More Context? 🔎

Sarah RainsfordSouthern and Eastern Europe correspondent in CreteIn Crete, migrants from North Africa are detained in dire conditions, denied asylum rights under new Greek government measures amidst a migration "state of emergency." The migration minister, Thanos Plevris, emphasizes strong deterrence as thousands continue to arrive, with reports of individuals like Mustafa from Sudan fearing deportation despite fleeing war. Want More Context? 🔎