"2024 Welcomed with Global Fireworks and Heartfelt Wishes Captured in Photos"

As the world welcomed 2024 with fireworks in major cities like Paris, Rio, and Sydney, conflict regions such as Israel, Gaza, and Ukraine experienced rocket strikes and military tensions. The global population, now over eight billion, anticipates significant events including major elections and the Paris Olympics, amidst challenges like high living costs and climate change. Queen Margrethe II of Denmark announced her abdication, while leaders in Russia and Ukraine delivered defiant New Year's messages. The US looks forward to a potential presidential election rematch between Joe Biden and Donald Trump.