In Sudan, the UN's political chief Rosemary DiCarlo has strongly condemned the foreign-backed violence that's led to the displacement of over 11 million people since April 2023, highlighting concerns over external support for military factions, and calling for global intervention to protect civilians.

Meanwhile, in Delhi, a severe pollution crisis has taken hold, with the air quality index soaring past hazardous levels at 1,000, disrupting air travel and prompting restrictions on outdoor activities due to the hazardous haze trapped by cold weather and nearby farm fires.

As we turn our attention to Europe, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in Brussels to reinforce support for Ukraine in light of Donald Trump's return to the White House, amidst rising geopolitical tensions and concerns over potential shifts in U.S. policy.

Over in the Middle East, Russia is urging Israel to steer clear of airstrikes near its key Hmeimim air base in Syria, following an incident in Latakia, stressing the importance of safeguarding Russian military personnel amidst ongoing conflicts with Hezbollah.

In Lebanon, an Israeli strike in southern Beirut has intensified tensions, resulting in six fatalities and prompting warnings for evacuations in Hezbollah-affiliated areas, as the Israeli army prepares for further operations.

Lastly, at the UN COP29 summit in Azerbaijan, there's a push to significantly increase climate funding for developing nations to $1.3 trillion annually, marking a substantial rise from previous pledges, although not without debate over contributions from various countries.