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Domain: Political Science: Analyzing Government and Politics
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Current affairs articles
Geopolitics
Trump counter-terrorism chief quits over Iran war, blaming Israel
The Guardian – World
· Europe
Joe Kent resigned as national counter-terrorism center director, saying Iran posed no imminent threat to the USSign up for the Breaking News US email to get ne…
US Senate prepares to take up debate on restrictive voting bill
The Guardian – World
· Europe
Sweeping bill would require proof of US citizenship for new voters passed by House but faces steep odds in SenateUS politics live – latest updatesSign up for t…
Being in Sinn Féin not the same as being in the IRA, Gerry Adams tells high court
The Guardian – World
· Europe
Party’s former leader, who is being sued for symbolic damages, says opponents have repeatedly tried to conflate Sinn Féin and IRAGerry Adams has told the high …
Death of influential Ali Larijani may be bigger loss to Iran than Khamenei
The Guardian – World
· Europe
He had IRGC’s trust while having his differences with hardliners and had huge sway with likes of China and RussiaMiddle East crisis – live updatesIf confirmed,…
National Counterterrorism Center director resigns over Iran war
NBC News – World
· US
The director of the National Counterterrorism Center, a retired Green Beret and longtime supporter of President Donald Trump, says he has resigned over the war…
Israel’s Killing of Ali Larijani Could Allow Military to Tighten Grip on Iran
The New York Times – World
· US
As Iran’s top national security official, Mr. Larijani had a reputation for acting as a bridge between hard-line figures in the armed forces and more moderate …
Why Won’t Europe Help Trump in Iran? Let’s Count the Reasons.
The New York Times – World
· US
President Trump says his NATO allies are disloyal for not helping the United States to clear an oil blockade. But they have a long list of incentives to refuse.
RS polls: Cong alleges BJP tried ‘vote chori’ in Haryana, warns cross-voters of strict action
Times of India – World
· India
The Congress accused the BJP of "vote chori" and "murdering democracy" in Haryana's Rajya Sabha elections after cross-voting and invalid ballots marred the con…
'We don't need help!' Trump explodes after Nato, other nations refuse to take part in Iran war
Times of India – World
· India
US President Donald Trump declared America's self-sufficiency in its military operations against Iran, stating the nation is the world's most powerful and requ…
‘Kurds seek a democratic Iran; we do not fight other powers’ wars’, says Iranian Kurdish party
The Hindu – World
· India
“We do not act according to any other power. We ourselves will do what is necessary and we will make the necessary decisions accordingly,” PJAK co-chair Peyman…
U.S. does ‘not need’ help from allies on Iran, says Donald Trump
The Hindu – World
· India
Iran’s attacks on Gulf nations and its grip on the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world’s oil is transported, have sparked increasing concerns …
Iran’s Ali Larijani, Basij paramilitary head ‘eliminated’ in Tehran strikes: Israel
South China Morning Post – World
· China
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Tuesday that Iran’s powerful national security chief Ali Larijani was “eliminated last night”, along with the comm…
A former Hong Kong opposition politician has argued that China’s one-party rule system is incompatible with the country’s constitution and fails to safeguard p…
Thailand to build fence along parts of Cambodian border for ‘peace of mind’
South China Morning Post – World
· China
Thailand will start building fences along a portion of its border with Cambodia next month to boost security after deadly clashes between the countries erupted…
Will delay in Trump-Xi summit affect US arms sales to Taiwan?
South China Morning Post – World
· China
A possible delay in the planned summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping later this month has raised concerns about a pending record US arms sale to Taiwan, …
Trump’s Iran gamble won’t advance his prospects at home or with China
South China Morning Post – World
· China
The eminent British military strategist Michael Howard famously said that the purpose of forecasting wars is not to get it right, but to avoid getting it terri…
With Trump’s China trip in limbo, further trade talks loom: analysts
South China Morning Post – World
· China
With US President Donald Trump’s trip to China postponed and the countries’ recent trade negotiations in Paris ending with no apparent breakthroughs, analysts …
Iran war overlaps with Afghanistan-Pakistan conflict
Deutsche Welle (DW) – World
· Europe
With airstrikes on Afghan territory, including the strategically important Bagram Airfield, Pakistan has declared open war on the Taliban. This escalation coin…
Germany: A regional election overshadowed by the Iran war
Deutsche Welle (DW) – World
· Europe
Another test case for Germany:s government: Voters will go to the polls in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany's wine-growing region and home of Donald Trump's ances…
What does the Iran war mean for the US defense sector?
Deutsche Welle (DW) – World
· Europe
US defense companies are being called on to ramp up production to meet fresh demand from the war in Iran. It opens up an existing rift between them and the Tru…
First Thing: Israel says Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani killed in airstrike
The Guardian – World
· Europe
It would make Larijani the most senior Iranian figure to be killed in the war since Ali Khamenei. Plus, Oakland homicides down 48% from Covid peakDon’t already…
Iran’s security chief, Ali Larijani, killed in airstrike, Israel says
The Guardian – World
· Europe
If confirmed, death would make Larijani the most senior Iranian figure to be killed since Ali Khamenei on first day of warMiddle East crisis – live updatesIsra…
Senate expected to take up voter ID bill opposed by Democrats – US politics live
The Guardian – World
· Europe
Donald Trump has vowed not to sign any other legislation until the passage of Save America act, which would create more barriers for votingSign up for the Brea…
Iranian soccer players train with Australian team after being granted asylum
NBC News – World
· US
Two members of the Iranian women’s soccer team joined a training session with a professional club in Australia, in their first publicly shared appearance since…
Iran war throws Trump's China trip in doubt, but Beijing doesn't seem to mind waiting
NBC News – World
· US
The timing of a highly anticipated summit between President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping is in doubt after Trump asked to delay it by “a month or…
Mobile internet blackouts sweep Moscow, leaving residents feeling 'powerless'
NBC News – World
· US
Moscow has been hit by a major mobile internet blackout as the Russian government tightens restrictions it has touted as necessary to ensure the “security” of …
Europe Has Helped the U.S. Protect Shipping. The Strait of Hormuz Is Different.
The New York Times – World
· US
European Union ministers and leaders pushed back on ideas to protect the strait, including expanding a maritime operation already in place in the Red Sea.
Iran War Live Updates: Israel Says It Has Killed Iran’s De Facto Leader
The New York Times – World
· US
Ali Larijani, Iran’s top security official, was killed in an overnight strike, the Israeli military said. His death would deal another severe blow to Iran’s po…
Why Trump's 'beautiful armada' cannot take control of the Strait of Hormuz
Times of India – World
· India
The proposal from President Trump to assemble an international naval coalition for the defense of the Strait of Hormuz encounters formidable obstacles. Iran's …
Exclusive - 'Action will follow. Pak's brutality won't go unanswered': Taliban
Times of India – World
· India
Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid vowed retaliation after an alleged Pakistani airstrike on Omar Addiction Treatment Hospital in Kabul, which he describe…
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Trump counter-terrorism chief quits over Iran war, blaming Israel
Source: The Guardian – World
·
- Joe Kent resigned as NCTC director, protesting U.S. war in Iran, claiming it posed no imminent threat and blaming Israel's lobbying.
- He criticized misinformation campaigns pushing for the war, likening it to the Iraq conflict, and promoted anti-government conspiracy theories.
- Kent’s career includes combat experience and congressional bids, but his campaigns linked to far-right groups and controversial rhetoric.
- Trump dismissed Kent’s resignation, calling him "weak on security" and asserting Iran was a clear threat.
US Senate prepares to take up debate on restrictive voting bill
Source: The Guardian – World
·
- Senate voted 51-48 to debate the Save America Act, requiring citizenship proof for voters, a rebranded version of the Safeguard Act.
- Bill mandates ID at polls and registration, supported by Trump, despite existing federal citizenship requirements.
- House passed the bill earlier, but Senate needs 60 votes; Thune lacks support, and Democrats oppose it, citing voter disenfranchisement risks.
- Trump threatens to withhold signing and pushes amendments, warning of political backlash if the bill is blocked.
Being in Sinn Féin not the same as being in the IRA, Gerry Adams tells high court
Source: The Guardian – World
·
- Gerry Adams denies IRA membership, insisting Sinn Féin and the IRA are separate, amid a £1 symbolic damages lawsuit by bombing victims.
- Claimants allege he led the IRA and was responsible for 1973 and 1996 bombings; Adams rejects all accusations.
- Judge reprimanded Adams for making off-the-record remarks during cross-examination.
- Adams compares his stance to support for ANC and PLO, denying IRA ties despite historical delegation claims.
Death of influential Ali Larijani may be bigger loss to Iran than Khamenei
Source: The Guardian – World
·
- Israel’s assassination of Ali Larijani, Iran’s top security chief, is a major blow, surpassing the loss of Khamenei, due to his cross-level influence and international ties.
- Larijani’s removal confirms Israel/US never saw him as a potential Iranian leader, deepening uncertainty about US alternatives for regime collapse.
- His death eliminates his potential as a pragmatic transitional leader akin to Venezuela’s Delcy Rodríguez, highlighting US struggles to find internal Iranian candidates.
- Larijani shaped Iran’s nuclear strategy, delayed Khamenei’s succession, and bridged military/civilian factions, leaving a legacy of strategic and diplomatic influence.
Aspiring female Zambian politicians asked for sexual favours, official says
Source: BBC News – World
·
- Zambian officials report political parties are demanding sexual favors from female candidates for election nominations, prompting calls for recording and addressing such cases.
- Zambia faces severe gender imbalance in politics (15% female MPs), with structural and cultural barriers hindering women’s leadership roles.
- Women face "sextortion" during nominations; advocates urge legal reforms, fast-track courts, and stronger anti-harassment laws to combat the issue.
- Upcoming August elections highlight ongoing challenges, with only 5 out of 36 state-owned enterprise CEOs being women despite progress in some roles.
Chile's president begins building border barrier less than week into term
Source: BBC News – World
·
- Chile's President Kast initiated a border barrier near Peru, citing illegal immigration and crime, echoing Trump's wall policy.
- Rising undocumented migrants (336,000) and security concerns drive the project, with trenches and fences planned.
- The barrier targets half of Chile’s 180km-Peru border, reflecting a rightward shift and alignment with Trump’s immigration stance.
- Additional context includes evacuations, flood alerts, and a canceled Congo-Chile football match due to Ebola fears.
Top US counterterrorism official resigns over Iran war, urging Trump to 'reverse course'
Source: BBC News – World
·
- **Joe Kent resigned** as Trump's counterterrorism chief, claiming Iran posed "no imminent threat" and blaming Israel/lobby groups for pushing the Iran war.
- **White House dismissed** his claims, asserting Trump had "compelling evidence" of an Iranian attack, while ADL called his accusations "antisemitic tropes."
- **Kent cited military service** and his wife's death, arguing the Iran war harms American lives and contradicts "America First" principles.
- **Political reactions split**, with some supporting Kent and others condemning his criticism as anti-Semitic, amid broader Trump admin resignations.
National Counterterrorism Center director resigns over Iran war
Source: NBC News – World
·
- Joe Kent resigns from National Counterterrorism Center, citing no imminent Iran threat and Israeli influence.
- White House disputes, citing Iran's terrorism, missile programs, and Trump's assessment of imminent threat.
- Kent, a retired Green Beret, served in CIA, wife died in Syria; linked to Trump's loyalists and Jan. 6 rhetoric.
- He pressured analysts to align with Trump's Iran claims and criticized Biden's immigration policies.
Israel’s Killing of Ali Larijani Could Allow Military to Tighten Grip on Iran
Source: The New York Times – World
·
- Ali Larijani, Iran’s top security official, killed in Israeli airstrike, risking military dominance over Iran’s ruling system.
- He was trusted by Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, and oversaw crackdowns, military prep, and internal power struggles.
- Larijani pushed for a moderate leader, but Mojtaba Khamenei, Khamenei’s son, succeeded him, deepening hard-line control.
- Iranian officials expressed shock and fear Israel may continue targeting leadership to topple the Islamic Republic.
Here Are the Top Iranian Leaders Killed in the War So Far
Source: The New York Times – World
·
- Israel killed Ali Larijani, Iran’s de facto leader, and Gholamreza Soleimani in an airstrike near Tehran.
- These strikes mark the largest blow to Iran’s leadership since Feb. 28 attacks killed Khamenei and top security officials.
- Larijani, though close to Khamenei, was not a likely supreme leader candidate due to his non-cleric status.
- Mojtaba Khamenei, Khamenei’s son, succeeded him as Iran’s new supreme leader.
What is the Basij?
Source: The New York Times – World
·
- Israel killed Iran’s Basij militia commander and national security chief, targeting its security establishment amid the Middle East war.
- The Basij, a million-member paramilitary force, suppresses dissent through pervasive domestic presence and brutal tactics.
- U.S. and Israeli strikes aim to weaken Iran’s military and internal security networks, not just degrade its military power.
- Iranian authorities brace for Nowruz protests, imposing strict security amid fears of unrest and government crackdowns.
Why Won’t Europe Help Trump in Iran? Let’s Count the Reasons.
Source: The New York Times – World
·
- Trump accuses NATO allies of disloyalty for not aiding in clearing an oil blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.
- Europe urges Trump to end the Iran war quickly, resisting U.S. demands for military support.
- U.S. and Israel launched unconsulted strikes on Iran, bypassing allies and international coordination.
- European nations responded variably: Germany agreed to base use, Britain partially complied, Spain refused.
Trump Signals He May Intervene in Cuba Following Iran and Venezuela
Source: The New York Times – World
·
- Trump claims he may "take Cuba" by force, signaling potential U.S. intervention, contrasting with past presidents' cautious approaches.
- His remarks follow military actions in Venezuela and Iran, suggesting a pattern of foreign policy aggression.
- This marks the first time a U.S. president has openly contemplated seizing Cuba, reflecting his perceived power.
- Analysts warn Trump's comments could indicate a third foreign intervention attempt before the year’s end.
RS polls: Cong alleges BJP tried ‘vote chori’ in Haryana, warns cross-voters of strict action
Source: Times of India – World
·
- Former Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda elected Rajya Sabha MP with Karamvir Singh Boudh.
- TOI News Desk operates 24/7 to deliver real-time news and updates globally.
- Team prioritizes verified breaking news, analysis, and in-depth reports.
- TOI is a trusted source for global updates, ensuring readers stay informed.
'We don't need help!' Trump explodes after Nato, other nations refuse to take part in Iran war
Source: Times of India – World
·
- TOI World Desk's team covers global events with seasoned journalists and passionate writers.
- Focus on accuracy, depth, and timeliness in international reporting.
- Aims to deliver nuanced understanding of global affairs and interconnected issues.
- Provides round-the-clock news with diverse perspectives to keep readers informed.
‘Kurds seek a democratic Iran; we do not fight other powers’ wars’, says Iranian Kurdish party
Source: The Hindu – World
·
- **PJAK rejects foreign wars**, insisting Kurds will act independently, not for U.S. or Israel, and prioritize self-defense against Iranian state forces.
- **U.S. and Israel** reportedly supported Kurdish militias, but PJAK denies aid, claiming they’ve resisted Iran’s regime alone for years.
- **PJAK demands autonomy** for Eastern Kurdistan, advocating a democratic Iran to ensure rights for all ethnic groups, including Kurds.
- **Conflict escalation** threatens Iran’s stability, with PJAK warning the regime’s policies risk collapse unless it reforms.
Watch: US-China summit delayed: Trump cites War, Hormuz tensions
Source: The Hindu – World
·
- U.S. President Trump delays summit with Xi Jinping over Strait of Hormuz tensions and global oil supply concerns.
- Paris talks between Bessent and He Lifeng labeled "constructive" amid escalating West Asia conflict.
- Delayed summit impacts global trade and U.S.-China relations, with implications for economic stability.
- Article published on March 17, 2026, highlighting geopolitical tensions and diplomatic efforts.
Top U.S. counterterrorism official resigns over Iran war, says Iran posed no imminent threat
Source: The Hindu – World
·
- Joe Kent resigned as U.S. National Counterterrorism Centre director, opposing Trump's Iran war, citing Israel's influence and claiming Iran posed no threat.
- Kent, with military and CIA ties, faced Democratic opposition over far-right links, including ties to Proud Boys and conspiracy theories.
- His Senate confirmation involved criticism over a Signal group chat used by Trump’s team and false claims about the 2020 election.
- Republicans praised his counterterrorism credentials, highlighting his military experience despite controversies.
U.S. does ‘not need’ help from allies on Iran, says Donald Trump
Source: The Hindu – World
·
- Trump claims U.S. no longer needs NATO or ally military help in Iran conflict due to "military success."
- His remarks follow rebuffed requests to reopen Strait of Hormuz for oil traffic.
- Trump asserts U.S. "never" required foreign assistance in the Iran war.
- He explicitly lists Japan, Australia, South Korea, and NATO as unnecessary partners.
Iran’s Ali Larijani, Basij paramilitary head ‘eliminated’ in Tehran strikes: Israel
Source: South China Morning Post – World
·
- Iranian leaders Larijani and Soleimani killed in strike, per Katz's statement.
- Iranian state media shared Larijani's note on sailors killed in US attack, no response to Katz's claims.
- Iran's Revolutionary Guards confirmed Soleimani's death, calling him a martyr.
- Larijani killed with son; no details on circumstances provided.
- Ex-Hong Kong lawmaker Lee Cheuk-yan argues calling for an end to “one-party dictatorship” doesn’t mean ousting the Communist Party, but promoting democratic rights under the constitution.
- He claims one-party rule contradicts the constitution’s preamble, which allows “multiparty cooperation and political consultation” under party leadership.
- Lee emphasizes people should choose their government, asserting the Communist Party can retain power while enabling constitutional freedoms.
- His remarks were made during oral testimony at West Kowloon Court, highlighting tensions between party authority and democratic aspirations.
Thailand to build fence along parts of Cambodian border for ‘peace of mind’
Source: South China Morning Post – World
·
- Military plans to build 1.3km barrier with walls, sensors, and CCTV in Chanthaburi province.
- Fence aims to enhance security and provide peace of mind to border residents.
- Construction will take 45 days, following landmine clearance and road paving.
- Project includes electronic fencing and physical barriers for border protection.
Will delay in Trump-Xi summit affect US arms sales to Taiwan?
Source: South China Morning Post – World
·
- US$14 billion arms package for Taiwan, largest ever, awaits presidential approval.
- Includes advanced systems like Patriot PAC-3, NASAMS, and $6B in asymmetric capabilities.
- Defense Minister Koo assures no sales delay reported.
- Broader concerns over US ammunition depletion in Iran conflict.
Trump’s Iran gamble won’t advance his prospects at home or with China
Source: South China Morning Post – World
·
- US lacks a clear end-goal or timeline for the Iran war, with Trump’s claims of Iran’s defeat exaggerated but highlighting significant US military damage.
- The US faces limited ammunition and time, exacerbated by midterms, as Iran’s persistent attacks via drones and missiles complicate withdrawal.
- No coherent national strategy exists; the Middle East remains a permanent battlefield with over six wars since the 1980s, mirroring Afghanistan’s “forever war.”
- Israel’s leverage exceeds Europe’s allies combined, making US withdrawal from the region harder than exiting Ukraine, due to strong pro-Israel influence.
With Trump’s China trip in limbo, further trade talks loom: analysts
Source: South China Morning Post – World
·
- US president cites Iran war for summit delay; Paris talks show minimal progress, with experts predicting more negotiations before Trump’s visit.
- Experts view talks as a pause, not breakthrough, warning tension could overshadow the critical summit.
- Iran conflict complicates talks; China frustrated by US mixing trade with security issues, avoiding Washington’s agenda.
- US Treasury official denies postponement is linked to China’s stance on Iran.
Israel says Iran’s security chief Larijani has been killed
Source: Al Jazeera – News
·
- Israel’s defense minister claims Iranian security chief Ali Larijani was killed in an Israeli strike.
- No official confirmation from Iran has been released.
- The strike reportedly occurred overnight.
- Al Jazeera English reports the Israeli claim.
Blood tech: The UK ambassador, the sex offender, Palantir, and Gaza
Source: Al Jazeera – News
·
- UK procures spyware tested on Palestinians despite public criticism of Israel’s actions.
- Palantir secures £240m UK defense contract and £330m NHS deal, with redacted details.
- Company aids Israel’s Gaza operations via data analytics, criticized for enabling targeting.
- Mandelson’s Epstein ties and UK’s opaque dealings spark calls for Palantir review.
Mapping Israeli attacks and the displacement of one million in Lebanon
Source: Al Jazeera – News
·
- Nearly 1 in 5 Lebanese displaced due to Israeli ground operations and air raids, with over 1 million registered as displaced.
- Israeli attacks since October 2023 killed at least 5,282 in Lebanon, including 886 in March alone, violating the 2024 ceasefire.
- Evacuation orders expanded to 1,470 sq km, displacing 18% of Lebanon’s population amid ongoing violence.
- Israel’s refusal to withdraw troops and continued attacks have caused widespread destruction, leaving 99,000 homes damaged or destroyed.
German Chancellor says Iran war has no military solution
Source: Al Jazeera – News
·
- German Chancellor Merz states the Iran conflict cannot be resolved militarily.
- Political solutions are essential to address the crisis.
- Military action is deemed ineffective for resolving tensions.
- Emphasis on diplomatic dialogue over military intervention.
Thousands of Christians are being evicted in Pakistan’s capital
Source: Al Jazeera – News
·
- Thousands of Christians face eviction in Islamabad amid protests.
- Locals and activists protest forced displacement of Christian community.
- Interior Ministry claims evictions target illegal settlements, not minorities.
- Article highlights tensions over religious minorities in Islamabad.
Iran war overlaps with Afghanistan-Pakistan conflict
Source: Deutsche Welle (DW) – World
·
- Pakistan launches airstrikes on Taliban in Afghanistan, including Bagram Airfield, escalating cross-border conflict.
- Taliban accuse Pakistan of attacking a Kabul hospital, killing 400, while Islamabad denies civilian targets.
- Tensions rise as Pakistan shifts strikes to Afghan military sites, highlighting strategic regional instability.
- Geopolitical tensions intensify as Bagram’s attack risks U.S. military return and regional power dynamics.
Germany: A regional election overshadowed by the Iran war
Source: Deutsche Welle (DW) – World
·
- Rhineland-Palatinate's wine region, home to Trump's ancestors, hosts a pivotal state election testing Germany's coalition government and viticulture ministry leadership.
- CDU and SPD face a tight race, with AfD rising to 19%, likely leading to a SPD-CDU coalition despite political tensions.
- Election results could impact federal politics, especially after SPD's recent losses in Baden-Württemberg, risking internal party unrest.
- Schweitzer (SPD) leads in popularity over Schnieder (CDU), shaping the outcome and potential coalition dynamics in the state.
What does the Iran war mean for the US defense sector?
Source: Deutsche Welle (DW) – World
·
- US defense firms pressured to boost production for Iran conflict, straining ties with Trump administration over delays and budget disputes.
- Companies criticized for prioritizing dividends over investment, with Trump accusing them of slow output and shareholder focus.
- Pentagon faces delays in contracts due to political gridlock and lack of timely budget approvals, hindering readiness.
- Long-term risks include potential defense spending cuts if Democrats gain Congress, and sustainability concerns over $1.5T budget targets.
Iran wants World Cup games moved from US to Mexico
Source: Deutsche Welle (DW) – World
·
- Iran seeks to relocate 2026 World Cup matches from the U.S. to Mexico due to security concerns over Trump’s remarks, citing risks to players’ safety.
- Trump criticized Iran’s participation, while Iran’s sports minister threatens a boycott amid U.S.-Israel strikes.
- Iran’s World Cup schedule includes U.S. venues, with base camp in Arizona; coaches insist preparations proceed as planned.
- FIFA has not responded to Iran’s request, while Iranian women players recently returned to Iran after asylum offers.
First Thing: Israel says Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani killed in airstrike
Source: The Guardian – World
·
- Israel claims to have killed Iran’s national security chief, Larijani, a top figure in the war, potentially escalating tensions.
- Oil prices rose after Iran attacked production facilities, with Brent crude hitting $103.2 per barrel.
- A federal judge blocked RFK Jr.’s vaccine panel overhaul, ruling it violated federal law.
- Lebanese displaced fear prolonged occupation as Israel expands ground operations in southern Lebanon.
Iran’s security chief, Ali Larijani, killed in airstrike, Israel says
Source: The Guardian – World
·
- **Larijani, Iran’s top security official, killed by Israeli airstrike** alongside his son and bodyguards, marking the highest-ranking Iranian fatality since Khamenei.
- **Israel threatens retaliation**; Soleimani’s death confirmed, with Trump criticizing Iran’s regime and praising strikes.
- **Larijani’s death strengthens IRGC’s influence**; he was a key strategist, shifting from pragmatism to hardline amid escalating tensions.
- **Conflict intensifies** as Hormuz remains closed, US allies reject reopening calls, and Israel leverages intelligence to target Iran’s leadership.
Senate expected to take up voter ID bill opposed by Democrats – US politics live
Source: The Guardian – World
·
- Tulsi Gabbard defends Trump’s authority to assess Iran’s threat, stating his role as Commander-in-Chief, despite her deputy’s resignation over differing views.
- Gabbard avoids confirming Iran’s imminent threat status, contrasting her past criticism of Trump’s Iran policies.
- Trump’s claims about Iran’s nuclear plans lack evidence, contradicting 2007 intelligence reports showing halted programs.
- Kent resigned over Iran conflict, citing ethical concerns, while critics question his ties to right-wing extremists.
Iranian soccer players train with Australian team after being granted asylum
Source: NBC News – World
·
- Two Iranian women’s soccer players joined an Australian club’s training session after accepting asylum, marking their first public appearance since leaving Iran amid war tensions.
- Their team left Australia for Oman after the U.S.-Israeli war began, facing scrutiny over their silence during the national anthem at the Women’s Asian Cup.
- The Asian Football Confederation confirmed their departure was arranged by Iran’s embassy, with ongoing checks on their safety in the country.
- The players expressed gratitude publicly, while Iranian officials labeled them “traitors” for their actions during the tournament.
Iran war throws Trump's China trip in doubt, but Beijing doesn't seem to mind waiting
Source: NBC News – World
·
- **Summit Delay**: Trump postponed the U.S.-China summit to focus on Iran tensions, citing a "month or so" delay, with China expressing no immediate concern.
- **Trade Priorities**: Analysts suggest the delay may aid relations, as both sides aim for incremental trade deals, not a grand bargain.
- **Strait of Hormuz**: China downplays its role in the Strait crisis, though energy concerns persist despite strategic reserves.
- **Communication**: China maintains open dialogue with the U.S. on summit timing, avoiding direct confrontation over the delay.
Mobile internet blackouts sweep Moscow, leaving residents feeling 'powerless'
Source: NBC News – World
·
- Moscow faces a major mobile internet blackout, with authorities citing security concerns against Ukrainian drones, though residents question its true intent.
- Outages disrupt daily life, forcing cash use and causing $37M–$62M in business losses, with sectors like retail and transport hit hardest.
- The government promotes state-controlled platforms like MAX, raising fears of surveillance, while a "whitelist" limits online access to approved sites.
- Public skepticism grows over the blackout’s motives, with some suspecting it aims to suppress communication and control information under the guise of security.
What to Know About Ali Larijani, Iran’s Top Security Official
Source: The New York Times – World
·
- Ali Larijani, Iran’s top security official, killed in U.S.-Israeli strike, becoming de facto leader after Khamenei’s death.
- Larijani, a Khamenei confidant, led Iran’s survival plan post-assassination and condemned U.S./Israel publicly.
- His son and security chief also killed; funerals for Larijani, son, and naval officers scheduled.
- Larijani negotiated a 2021 China deal, critical for Iran’s economy under sanctions.
Europe Has Helped the U.S. Protect Shipping. The Strait of Hormuz Is Different.
Source: The New York Times – World
·
- U.S. demands European allies reopen Strait of Hormuz, blocked by Iran, amid rising tensions. European leaders resist deeper involvement in the conflict.
- Operation Aspides (Red Sea) aims to protect shipping, with a 15M€ budget and limited ships, recently expanded by France.
- Aspides collaborates with U.S.-led Prosperity Guardian, involving more ships, including European vessels.
- Experts suggest Aspides could serve as a model for securing Hormuz, though EU’s expansion plan is currently shelved.
Iran War Live Updates: Israel Says It Has Killed Iran’s De Facto Leader
Source: The New York Times – World
·
- Israel killed Iran’s Supreme National Security Council head Ali Larijani and militia leader Soleimani in airstrikes, escalating regional tensions.
- Trump defended the war, blaming NATO and Israel, while National Counterterrorism Center director Joe Kent resigned over policy disagreements.
- Strait of Hormuz saw 17 vessel attacks since the war began, with over 1,348 Iranian and 912 Lebanese civilian casualties reported.
- Israeli airstrikes in Beirut collapsed a building, expanding targets beyond Hezbollah strongholds and raising safety concerns.
Why Trump's 'beautiful armada' cannot take control of the Strait of Hormuz
Source: Times of India – World
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- Aashish Saxena is Assistant News Editor at Times of India with 14 years in print/digital media.
- Focuses on geopolitics, Indian politics, defense tech, and current affairs.
- Expands coverage to South Asia and Middle East regions.
- Writes extensively on regional and global current affairs.
Exclusive - 'Action will follow. Pak's brutality won't go unanswered': Taliban
Source: Times of India – World
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- Ismat Ara covers politics, people, and societies at The Times of India, emphasizing accountability, justice, and lived experiences.
- Her reporting spans cities, towns, and remote villages, highlighting human stories beneath policy.
- Years of rigorous journalism shape her focus on real-world impacts of policies and systems.
- She prioritizes uncovering narratives that reflect societal challenges and individual experiences.
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