The US conducted overnight airstrikes in Yemen, targeting the capital Sanaa and other areas, resulting in numerous casualties. President Trump has vowed to use overwhelming force against the Iran-backed Houthis, who have been attacking international ships in the Red Sea in solidarity with Gaza. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the strikes will continue until the militants are no longer capable of attacking ships. The Houthis, who have previously targeted the US Navy and commercial shipping, have not carried out any attacks since the ceasefire in Gaza began in January.
The former President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, was arrested by Interpol at an airport in Manila on Tuesday morning based on an ICC arrest warrant. He is charged with crimes against humanity for the murder of at least 43 people during a drug crackdown while in office. His plane to the Netherlands for trial was delayed in Dubai for a medical check and his daughters claim he has been "kidnapped" and demand his return. His daughter, also the current Vice President, is facing impeachment and believes his arrest is politically motivated to boost her opponent's party in the upcoming elections.
The Huthi rebels, backed by Iran, have launched two attacks within 24 hours on an American aircraft carrier group in the Red Sea, in response to US strikes in Yemen. The US has not yet responded to the claims. The Huthi leader has called for a march and the UN has called for a cessation of military activity in the region. This escalation raises tensions between Iran and the US, and the Huthis claim to be acting in solidarity with Palestinians.
Despite Bhutan's focus on Gross National Happiness and sustainable development, children living in Taktsang Monastery face challenges in accessing education and healthcare. The lack of infrastructure and trained officials in the remote monastery has led to inadequate services and limited opportunities for these children. This issue is further compounded by the fear of traditional practices and the country's focus on preserving heritage, trapping the children in a cycle of poverty and limited resources.
In a major blow to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist group, top operative Abu Qatal, also known as Zia-ur-Rehman, was gunned down in a targeted attack in Pakistan. Qatal, who is the nephew of 26/11 attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed, was known for executing several terror plans in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, which occurred in the Jhelum area, also claimed the life of one of Qatal's security guards. Qatal's killing is seen as a significant setback for the LeT, as he was appointed as their Chief Operational Commander by Saeed himself.
Abu Qatal, also known as Faisal Nadeem, a close aide of Hafiz Saeed and wanted for his role in multiple attacks in India, was killed in a violent encounter in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. He was a highly sought-after target for Indian security agencies, particularly for his involvement in the 2023 Rajouri attack and the 2024 Reasi bus attack, both in Jammu and Kashmir. Qatal's death is a major blow to terrorist activities in the region and a significant win for India's efforts to combat terror.
Abu Qatal Sindhi, a prominent figure in Lashkar-e-Taiba and key aide of Hafiz Saeed who was also critically injured, was killed in a shooting in Pakistan. The attack also marks the return of Saeed to Pakistan after meeting with the country's Army's Corps Commander Mangla. Qatal was responsible for multiple attacks in Jammu & Kashmir, including the 2023 Rajouri attack, and was eliminated by an unidentified person in the Dina area of Jhelum. NIA has also filed a charge sheet against Qatal and two others in connection with the terror attack.
The Balochistan conflict between Pakistani forces and Balochi fighters has escalated with recent incidents of violence, leading to a greater concern for the region's stability. With certain parts of Balochistan no longer under the control of the central or provincial governments, experts fear for Pakistan's territorial integrity. In this critical situation, India's proactive approach and unique position in the region may be leveraged to mediate between the warring parties, but this will require de-hyphenation of India's domestic and foreign policies. The Prime Minister has an opportunity to seize the moment and demonstrate India's leadership in the region by engaging in dialogue with Pakistan.
In an exclusive report by CNN News18, top Indian intelligence sources have revealed that China should be worried about the rising attacks by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) against Beijing's investments in Balochistan, Pakistan. The BLA, a separatist militant group, has showcased its evolving tactics and increasing operational sophistication with its recent hostage crisis on Tuesday. Sources also highlight that the BLA's internal coordination has become more structured, making it difficult to predict their movements and potential future threats.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been announced to receive the highest honour in Mauritius, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean. PM Modi expressed his gratitude for the recognition and dedicated the award to the Indian community who migrated to Mauritius. The award signifies the strong cultural and historical ties between the two nations and India's commitment to regional peace and development.