US shows irritation at Israel ceasefire stance

Hello. Today Tom Bateman is reporting on the latest negotiations to broker a ceasefire deal in Gaza, with a senior US official seeming annoyed by reported remarks from Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. If you're planning to travel to the EU next year, you might want to read our piece explaining upcoming visa changes. We're also reporting from India, Chicago, and the Thames.

QUESTIONS ANSWERED

EU introduces US-like visa waiver scheme

The waiver will cover travel to every EU state except for Ireland and Cyprus, with the addition of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Credit: Getty Images

The EU is planning to introduce a €7 (£6, $7.80) EU visa waiver for some non-EU citizens by summer 2025. Under new rules, visitors from a list of non-EU countries, including the UK, will need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias)., similar to a US Esta, before travelling to 30 countries in Europe.

How does the Etias work?

Currently, visitors from 60 non-EU countries, including the US, the UK, Japan and Australia, can visit the EU's borderless Schengen area for up to 90 days every 180 days without a visa. This will change, as visitors will need to apply for a visa waiver that will be checked when crossing the EU border.

When will it start?

The EU has not announced a firm start, but its website says it will begin in "the first half of 2025". More than 95% of applications will be approved automatically within minutes, the EU says. However, it warns that in some cases may take up to 72 hours. Applications may also be denied or take up to four weeks to process in exceptional circumstances.

Why is the scheme being introduced?

The EU says it has decided to bring in more border controls as a response to the migrant crisis and concerns over terrorism. It says the Etias system will "strengthen security checks on those persons who travel visa-free to the EU". According to the EU website, the Etias will help EU states "assess potential risks" posed by people entering their borders.

THE BIG PICTURE

Parents of raped doctor speak out

The doctor's death has sparked a nation-wide conversation on violence against women in India. Credit: Getty Images

The rape and murder of a trainee doctor in India’s Kolkata city earlier this month has sparked massive outrage in the country. BBC Hindi spoke to the doctor’s parents who remember their only child as a clever, young woman. “At the age of 62, all my dreams have been shattered," her father said.

And finally... on the river Thames

Londoners strolling by the river near Tower Bridge might have been surprised to hear the Imperial March theme from the Star Wars movies - also known as the Darth Vader music. But no Death Star appeared in the sky - instead, the ominous tune was coming from a German Navy ship in London for training and supplies.