The Hunter Biden pardon is a gift to Donald Trump.

Week into rebel offensive in north, crumbling state faces new eastern front as US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces battle Assad army and pro-Iranian militias. Their gains could impact Iranian weapons corridor and, consequently, Israel.

Citing threats and opposition deadlock, President Yoon Suk Yeol takes drastic action in surprise move. 

US President-elect Donald Trump issued a strong warning to Hamas, stating: 'Those responsible will be hit harder than anybody has been hit in the long and storied History of the United States of America.'

Defense Minister Israel Katz vows "tough response" to Hezbollah's actions, while Netanyahu warns terrorist group.  Lebanon reports Israeli retaliation.