The United States has launched airstrikes targeting underground weapons storage facilities controlled by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. This marks the first time advanced B-2 Spirit stealth bombers have been used in the conflict. The Pentagon confirmed that five Houthi facilities were struck, with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin stating that these facilities were used to house conventional weapons that posed a threat to civilian and military vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The deployment of these bombers showcases the capabilities and commitment of the US to address security threats in the region.
Israel launched a massive aerial operation against Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen on Sunday, citing revenge for recent missile attacks by the Iran-backed group. The airstrikes targeted power plants and a seaport used to import oil, which were being used by the Houthis to transfer Iranian weapons to the region. This is the first time Israel has directly struck Yemen, with previous attacks focused on suppressing Houthi attacks on shipping in the area. The ongoing air campaign by Britain and the United States against Houthi targets began in January this year to protect commercial vessels.
A Red Cross delegation has visited the 25 crew members onboard the Hijacked Galaxy Leader vessel, which has been held by Houthi rebels since November 2020. The visit was the second by ICRC since the hijacking and aimed to monitor the conditions of detention and facilitate communication between the crew members and their families. Yemeni officials claim that the release of the crew members is dependent on negotiations with Hamas.
In a brief meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi discuss mutual concerns and bilateral relations. The meeting took place before the BRICS nations' meeting, where the two countries are part of the emerging economies bloc. The meeting comes at a critical time as tensions rise in West Asia due to conflicts involving Iran and other neighboring countries like Israel and Yemen.
GRM Overseas Ltd, a food processing company based in New Delhi, is facing criticism and questioning from investors after it was revealed that there is no data available for a recent block deal in which the company was involved. Despite operating for over 25 years, the lack of transparency in this deal has raised concerns about the company's financial practices and trustworthiness among stakeholders. The company has not released an official statement or explanation, leaving investors and the market unsure of the implications of this news.
In a nail-biting match between Yemen and Orvañanos, tensions rose as both teams struggled to break the tie. Jasim's long distance shot left Ali scrambling to prevent a goal, resulting in a yellow card. Referee calls a foul in favor of Yemen after Dahi was beaten in midfield. A potential goal for Yemen was thwarted by the goalkeeper's impressive save. Despite multiple close calls, the match ends in a draw with no clear winner.
Boby Chemmanur, a businessman and philanthropist, has announced plans to produce a film chronicling the journey of hope and redemption of Abdul Rahim, who was sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia. Through unwavering solidarity and compassion, the Malayali community raised a staggering Rs 34 crore to secure Rahim's release from jail. The project aims to showcase the inherent goodness and compassion of the Malayali community, with any profits being directed towards the relief activities of the Boche Charitable Trust. Attention has also turned to the case of Nimisha Priya, currently imprisoned in Yemen, with Boby expressing his commitment to ensuring justice and fairness in all endeavours.
US Special Envoy for Yemen, Tim Lenderking, emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire by the Houthi rebel group during a press briefing. He warned that Houthi attacks in the Red Sea are jeopardizing the ongoing peace process in Yemen and hindering crucial humanitarian aid to the region. Lenderking's discussions in Oman and Saudi Arabia included commending Oman's efforts in facilitating peace talks and engaging with regional partners. He called for a halt in Houthi attacks to refocus on the Yemen peace process and address the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people for a two-state solution.
In a surprise attack, 11 fighters loyal to the Yemeni government were killed while repelling Houthi rebels in the southern Lahij province. The Southern Transitional Council confirmed their fighters were the target of the attack, which lasted for five hours. Despite a lull in fighting, sporadic clashes like these continue to occur in Yemen, with no clear end in sight.
The tension continues to rise in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers as Qatar's Al-Annabi secure two impressive victories in Group A. Meanwhile, Japan and South Korea establish themselves as early front-runners in Groups B and C, respectively. As the competition intensifies, teams strive to secure spots for not just the FIFA World Cup 2026 but also the AFC Asian Cup 2027.