World

India and New Zealand signed a Free Trade Agreement boosting exports, investment, and skilled mobility. India gains 100% duty-free access to NZ, while New Zealand secures selective market entry. The pact strengthens Indo-Pacific trade ties and targets $20 billion investment inflows

Police in Bangladesh have failed to complete investigations in over 90% of 1,855 cases linked to July 2024 protests, raising concerns over justice delays, false accusations, and systemic weaknesses, with journalists and civilians among those still awaiting case resolution

China blocked Meta’s acquisition of AI startup Manus, citing foreign investment security review rules. The deal, involving a Singapore-based firm with Chinese roots, was halted after scrutiny by regulators, despite Meta claiming full legal compliance and expecting resolution

Iran has offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz if the US lifts its blockade and the war ends, officials said. The proposal comes amid ongoing tensions, stalled negotiations and global concerns over oil supply disruptions and rising prices

India and New Zealand signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA), described as India’s first women-led negotiation deal. It grants 100% duty-free access for Indian exports, boosts investment, and expands opportunities for students, professionals, and key sectors

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that Israel is defending the rights of Christians across the Middle East, highlighting the role of Christian soldiers in the IDF. His remarks followed a viral incident in Lebanon where an Israeli soldier was filmed smashing a statue of Jesus Christ.

India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Ajaz Khan, visited Makkah to oversee arrangements for Haj 2026 and welcomed the first batch of pilgrims arriving by train from Madinah. Key initiatives this year include the Haj Suvidha App, smart wristbands, short-duration Haj options, expanded insurance coverage, and high-speed rail connectivity.

A Hindu temple caretaker was found dead in southeastern Bangladesh days after going missing. Minority groups suspect foul play and demand justice, while police await autopsy results to determine whether it was murder or suicide

The India–New Zealand FTA is set to boost India’s leather sector, with zero tariffs enhancing exports. Piyush Goyal said the industry could reach $50 billion by 2030, leveraging manufacturing strength and global market access

India advised citizens to avoid travel to Iran due to partially open airspace, while assisting evacuation of 2,445 Indians via land routes. Gulf carriers continue limited flights to India as regional aviation gradually stabilises under safety restrictions

At least 16 people were killed in strikes across Ukraine, Russian-held territories and Russia over the weekend, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster. Ukrainian and Russian drone attacks hit Dnipro, Sevastopol, Belgorod and Yaroslavl, sparking fires at an oil refinery.

The Central Information Commission upheld denial of RTI data on India’s oil imports from Russia, citing commercial confidentiality and strategic interests, while directing Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell to improve transparency and disclosures on its website

A UN-backed report has ranked Pakistan among the top 10 fragile countries facing acute food insecurity, with around 11 million people affected in 2025. Floods, inflation and poor infrastructure are cited as key drivers of worsening food conditions.

Nepal faces a widening trade deficit with China, driven by heavy imports and weak exports. World Bank data shows BRI projects favour Chinese firms, deepening structural imbalances and exposing Nepal’s economic vulnerabilities

A reported shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner sparked panic and security concerns in Washington DC. Elon Musk condemned the attack online, while authorities said the suspect was detained and investigations are underway into the alleged breach.

Donald Trump survived another assassination attempt, highlighting dangers faced by US presidents. He has faced three attempts. Historically, presidents including Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, James Garfield, and William McKinley were killed or attacked in politically violent incidents

Social media profiles linked to the California man arrested in a shooting incident at the White House correspondents' dinner suggest he is a highly educated tutor and amateur game developer with engineering and computer science background according to online records

Four candidates, including Michelle Bachelet and Rafael Grossi, faced tough questioning to succeed Antonio Guterres. With no clear frontrunner, the race highlights calls for reforms, stronger leadership, and restoring global trust in the UN

A suspect breached outer security at the White House Correspondents' Dinner at Washington Hilton by posing as a guest. Authorities said layered security worked, but the incident raised concerns over protection at high-profile political events

Shots fired outside a White House event in Washington DC caused panic as Secret Service swiftly secured Donald Trump. The shooter was apprehended, officials confirmed, and the Correspondents Dinner was postponed following law enforcement advice.

Gunshots reported at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner caused panic and evacuation, with President Donald Trump and officials moved to safety. Authorities confirmed the suspect was apprehended, while investigations continue into the incident

Pakistan has successfully launched its third indigenous electro-optical satellite, EO-3, from China’s Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre. The satellite is expected to revolutionise urban planning, disaster management, food security, and environmental protection.

Thousands of Palestinians participated in municipal elections in Gaza for the first time in 20 years, with voting limited to Deir al-Balah while parallel polls were held across the West Bank. The Palestinian Central Elections Commission reported over 1.3 million eligible voters across the territories.

President Donald Trump announced that US negotiators would not travel to Pakistan for talks with Iran, asserting that Washington holds the upper hand in the conflict. His remarks followed the departure of Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi from Islamabad after meetings with Pakistan’s leadership.