Aid access in Gaza is reaching a critical low point, says the UN, amid contrasting claims between Israel and non-UN groups about blocked humanitarian efforts in the north, as ongoing Israeli operations continue.

In parallel developments, a Hamas official signaled willingness for an immediate ceasefire with Israel despite rising tensions, accusing Prime Minister Netanyahu of stalling negotiations since the death of their leader.

Meanwhile, in Pakistan's Punjab province, a health emergency and lockdowns have been declared in Lahore and Multan due to severe smog affecting millions, leading to closures of schools and businesses to combat the hazardous air quality.

Similarly, New Delhi faces its own battle with smog, sparking school closures and vehicle restrictions as pollution levels skyrocket far beyond safe limits, though criticism mounts over the adequacy of these measures to address the annual crisis.

On a different note, French student Victor Dupont has returned home after diplomatic interventions led to his release from 27 days of detention in Tunisia, following concerns over increased crackdowns on foreign nationals.

Finally, tensions escalate further in the Middle East as Israel launched strikes on Damascus' Mazzeh suburb, targeting alleged militant sites amid reports of Hezbollah and Iranian Revolutionary Guard presence, echoing regional unrest following the recent Hamas attack.