International
US approves proposal to sell 48 F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia
The US State Department has approved a possible proposal to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia worth $24.3 billion. If the deal is finalised, Riyadh will receive 48 advanced F-35 Lightning II fighter jets.
Saudi seeks China's help to rein in Houthis
Saudi Arabia has sought China's help in exerting influence over Iran to halt the recent military advances of Yemen's Houthi rebels. Following Riyadh's request, Beijing privately urged Tehran to use its influence over the Houthis to help contain the situation.
49 die after drinking toxic liquor in Nigeria
At least 49 people have died in southern Nigeria after drinking locally made toxic liquor containing methanol. Around 100 people are undergoing treatment in hospital in the incident, according to a report in The Indian Express on Thursday, September 17.
What Narendra Modi said in reply to Tarique Rahman’s birthday greetings
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has replied to the birthday greetings of Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
State of emergency declared in Fiji as HIV infections rise
A national state of emergency has been declared in the Pacific island nation of Fiji due to an alarming rise in HIV infections. The country’s government has taken initiatives to expand the scope of HIV testing, treatment and preventive services to tackle the situation.
Australia to end family visas for international students
Australia is set to announce major changes to its visa policy for international students. Under new directives, foreign students may lose the opportunity to bring their partners and children with them during their studies. At the same time, the government plans to tighten the rules for temporary migrants changing visas.
Pakistan, China launch joint boundary commission, India objects
More than a decade after it was first anticipated, the long-awaited "Joint Boundary Commission" between Pakistan and China has been formally launched. Pakistan described the initiative, launched on Wednesday, September 16, as a significant milestone in the diplomatic relations between the two countries. Islamabad said the new mechanism would play an important role in strengthening border management, expanding trade, and enhancing technical coordination.
Iran attacks US-contracted commercial ship near Hormuz, several injured
Iran has attacked a commercial vessel contracted with the United States with drones and missiles in waters near the Strait of Hormuz. Several crew members of the ship were injured in the attack, which took place earlier this week, US media outlet Fox News reported on Wednesday. Turkey-based news agency Anadolu published the report.
Global crude oil prices fall for a second straight session
Global crude oil prices fell for a second straight session on Thursday as concerns over a major disruption to Middle Eastern supplies eased following reports that Saudi Arabia had proposed additional crude shipments through Oman.
Trump says US-Iran war may be nearing end, calls for deal
US President Donald Trump said Thursday (September 17) that the United States may be nearing the end of its seven-month war with Iran, claiming that he has been in direct contact with Iranian officials and that Tehran is interested in reaching a deal.