International
HRW concerned over arrest of 4 for Facebook posts
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has expressed deep concern over the arrest of four individuals in Bangladesh for allegedly posting content on Facebook. In a statement issued on Thursday, the US-based rights group said the move reflects the repressive practices of the previous administration and is contrary to freedom of expression.
Emmanuel Macron to leave politics after term ends
French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that he will not remain active in politics after his current term ends. The French constitution allows a president to serve two consecutive terms, which will conclude in 2027.
Raghav Chadha quits AAP, to join BJP along with seven Rajya Sabha MPs
In a major political development, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha has announced that he and six other upper house MPs are quitting the party and will join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) . The move is being seen as a significant setback for AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal.
Iran's foreign minister to visit Pakistan tonight for fresh talks
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to arrive in Islamabad tonight, according to Pakistani government sources. The trip comes as diplomatic efforts between Iran and the United States remain stalled, with Tehran insisting on the lifting of a naval blockade before any new round of talks.
India urges citizens not to travel to Iran
Amid ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran, India has issued a fresh advisory asking its citizens to avoid travelling to Iran and urging those already there to leave the country at the earliest.
Iran waives Hormuz transit fees for Russia, select allied nations
Iran has announced that it will waive transit fees for vessels from Russia and other “friendly countries” using the strategic Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes, according to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti.
22 Pakistani Taliban killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
At least 22 members of the Pakistani Taliban were killed in a joint intelligence-based operation in northwestern Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province, the military said on Friday. Armed attacks have increased in the region, posing growing challenges for Pakistani authorities.
Global crude oil prices climbed to $106 per barrel
Global crude oil prices climbed sharply on Friday (April 24) as escalating tensions between the United States and Iran over commercial vessel seizures in the Strait of Hormuz rattled energy markets.
Trump announces 3-week extension of Israel–Lebanon ceasefire
US President Donald Trump has announced a three-week extension of the ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, aiming to ease tensions in the Middle East.
Record voter turnout in West Bengal polls, Mamata calls it “positive sign”
West Bengal recorded an unusually high voter turnout in the first phase of its legislative assembly elections on Thursday (April 23), following controversy over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list.