Ethiopian Jews flown to Israel in latest operation
Israel’s PM speaks of tears in his eyes as he welcomes the group, the first of an expected wave. BBC News – Middle East
Craig Taylor
Reptiles smuggled from Mexico found at German airport stitched inside dolls
Ten of 26 rare animals from Mexico discovered at a German airport did not survive. BBC News – Latin America & Caribbean
France launches checks on dozens of mosques
The 76 places of worship are under scrutiny over possible Islamist extremism. BBC News – Europe
Avonmouth water works explosion: ‘Multiple casualties’ reported
A witness heard a “very loud explosion” at the treatment works in an industrial area near Bristol. BBC News – UK
Coronavirus: US hits record Covid cases and hospitalisations
Two records are reached on Wednesday, amid fears the pace will not slow leading up to Christmas. BBC News – US & Canada
Alieu Kosiah: Liberian ex-commander faces war crimes trial
Alieu Kosiah, 45, is accused of murder, rape, recruiting child soldiers and a host of other crimes. BBC News – Africa