Boxing robots, a mass wedding and a home as art: photos of the day – Wednesday

A report by Naccom reveals that refugee homelessness in the UK has more than doubled over the past two years, with 4,434 refugees and migrants accommodated in 2024-25, while 3,450 others could not be housed. This alarming trend is attributed to frequent government policy changes and issues with eVisas that hinder access to essential services.

Bari Weiss, editor-in-chief of CBS News, is set to moderate a town hall event featuring Erika Kirk, widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, scheduled for December 13. The event will address themes of grief, faith, and politics, as indicated by internal marketing materials.

An Israeli missile strike in Khan Younis has resulted in the deaths of five individuals, including two children, according to Gaza's civil defense agency. This incident highlights the ongoing violence in the region, with reports indicating that the strike was part of Israel's operations against Hamas militants following clashes. The situation remains dire as civilian casualties continue to rise amidst military actions.

The Eurovision Song Contest is facing a critical decision as its organizing body may vote on Israel's participation in the 2026 competition, amid threats from several nations to withdraw if Israel is not excluded due to the ongoing Gaza conflict. This situation marks a significant moment for the contest, as it navigates political tensions while aiming to maintain its cultural integrity.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a readiness for war with Europe if conflict arises, stalling progress on a peace plan for Ukraine that was being negotiated by the U.S. under Donald Trump. This statement reflects ongoing tensions in the region and highlights the precarious nature of diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Ukraine conflict.

The Red Cross has handed over presumed remains from Gaza to Israel, which Hamas claims belong to one of the last two hostages held in the region. Israeli forensic experts will conduct examinations to confirm the identity of the remains. This transfer follows a ceasefire agreement that has been in place since October 10, during which Hamas has released several bodies of hostages.

Israel has received the remains of a deceased hostage, identified as Dror Or, from Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). The remains were reportedly found in northern Gaza and will undergo forensic tests in Tel Aviv. This transfer follows a ceasefire that began on October 10, during which Hamas has released several bodies of hostages.

On Tuesday, 54 couples participated in a mass wedding ceremony in Khan Yunis, Gaza, dressed in traditional attire, symbolizing a celebration of life amidst the destruction caused by two years of conflict. The event took place against a backdrop of dilapidated buildings and rubble, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.