CIA Director John Ratcliffe informed US lawmakers that American military strikes decimated Iran's metal conversion facility, significantly hindering Tehran's nuclear ambitions for years. While some enriched uranium may remain, the loss of this facility cripples Iran's ability to construct a nuclear bomb. Assessments vary, but severe damage has occurred, though Iran retains some capabilities and knowledge.

Pakistani officials have temporarily closed the Ghulam Khan border crossing with Afghanistan following a suicide attack in North Waziristan that killed 13 security personnel. The closure, prompted by security threats and ongoing skirmishes, has led to a curfew in the affected region.

The World Health Organization (WHO) maintains that all origin hypotheses for the Covid-19 pandemic remain viable after an inconclusive investigation. Despite requests, China has not provided crucial viral sequences, animal market data, or lab information from Wuhan. The WHO urges transparency from Beijing and other nations to prevent future pandemics, keeping zoonotic spillover and lab leak theories open.

South Korean lawmakers revealed that North Korea might send more troops to Russia for the Ukraine war in July or August, citing intelligence reports. In exchange for artillery and missiles, Pyongyang is likely receiving technical assistance for satellite launches and missile guidance.

President Trump's strikes on Iran ignited immediate debate in Congress regarding his authority, revealing deep divisions. Republicans largely praised the action, while Democrats and some Republicans raised concerns about the lack of congressional approval and potential for escalating conflict. The strikes have complicated efforts to pass a national security package, highlighting existing schisms within both parties over U.S.

Israeli Air Force spokesperson announced that Israel has achieved aerial freedom over Tehran after striking Iranian nuclear and military sites. Dozens of Israeli jets operated over Tehran for hours, targeting air defense systems and other key assets. The IDF claims this operation will significantly delay Iran's nuclear program, marking a major escalation in the conflict between the two nations.

Following recent Israeli strikes that resulted in the deaths of two high-ranking military officials, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has appointed new commanders. Gen. Abdolrahim Mousavi, formerly the top army commander, now heads the armed forces, succeeding Gen. Mohammad Bagheri. Additionally, Mohammad Pakpour has been selected to lead the powerful Revolutionary Guard, replacing Gen. Hossein Salami.

Jordan and Iraq have announced the closure of their airspace. All flights have been grounded following Israel's attack on Iran. Amman has declared it will not permit any airspace violations. Jordan had intercepted drones and missiles fired by Iran at Israel in October 2024. Iraq has also closed its airspace and suspended air traffic at all airports.

Japan's Defence Ministry has confirmed the Liaoning and Shandong operating in separate locations in the Pacific on Saturday, both near remote southern islands belonging to Japan. Iwaya said the ministry had communicated with Beijing through China's embassy in Japan and that it would take further appropriate steps as needed. He stopped short of condemning China for the operations.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte urges member states to increase air and missile defenses by 400% to counter the Russian threat. He emphasizes the need for a quantum leap in collective defense, advocating for increased military spending and readiness.

In Los Angeles, officers used tear gas on demonstrators protesting President Trump's National Guard deployment. The protests followed Trump's immigration crackdown. Governor Newsom requested the Guard's removal, citing a breach of state sovereignty. Trump defended the deployment, alleging failures by California officials. Tensions rose with threats of further federal intervention.

Israel recovered the body of Nattapong Pinta, a Thai hostage taken in the October 7 attack. He was among 31 Thais captured by Hamas. Thailand confirmed Pinta's death, the last Thai hostage. Forty-six Thais died during the conflict. Thousands of Thais work in Israel, drawn by higher wages. Despite reports of poor conditions, many continue to seek employment there.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, northwest Pakistan, a government high school was bombed by unknown individuals early Friday, as reported by local police. The explosives caused the collapse of several rooms in the school, located in Akbari village, Tank district.

UN human rights chief Volker Turk said on Tuesday that deadly attacks on civilians around aid distribution sites in the Gaza Strip constituted a war crime. Attacks directed against civilians constitute a grave breach of international law, and a war crime, he said.

Iran on Sunday warned it would retaliate if European powers that have threatened to reimpose nuclear sanctions exploit a UN report showing Tehran has stepped up production of highly enriched uranium. The European trio have warned they could reimpose sanctions if they deemed Iran's nuclear programme a threat to the continent's security.

In Rafah, Gaza Strip, a tragic incident occurred. Twenty-one people died while seeking aid from an Israeli-backed foundation. A Red Cross hospital reported the casualties. Witnesses claim Israeli forces opened fire near the aid distribution site. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation's aid system faces chaos. The UN and aid groups criticize the system. They cite Israeli control and forced relocation.

France is set to implement a smoking ban in various public spaces, including beaches, parks, and school areas, starting July 1st. Health Minister Catherine Vautrin emphasised the need to protect children from the dangers of tobacco, which she stated causes approximately 200 deaths daily in France.

A U.S. federal court has blocked Donald Trumps attempt to impose sweeping tariffs under emergency powers, ruling that the president exceeded his constitutional authority. The Court of International Trade determined that only Congress can regulate foreign trade, rejecting Trumps use of emergency legislation to justify the levies. The ruling came in response to lawsuits filed by U.S. businesses and states, with critics calling the tariffs economically damaging and legally unsound. The decision cas

Japan has accused China of conducting unnotified maritime scientific research within its exclusive economic zone around Okinotori Island. The Japanese coastguard spotted a Chinese vessel extending a wire into the waters, prompting a demand to cease activity and a diplomatic protest. China argues Okinotori is merely rocks, invalidating Japan's EEZ claim, a stance supported by other nations.

China supports Pakistan's sovereignty after recent clashes with India. The conflict followed an attack in Kashmir, resulting in a ceasefire brokered by US President Trump. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Pakistani counterpart Mohammad Ishaq Dar in Beijing. China reaffirmed its strong relationship with Pakistan, calling it an ironclad friend. Pakistan confirmed using Chinese jets during the conflict.

Colombia joined China's Belt and Road Initiative. This happened during a regional leaders' meeting in Beijing. President Xi Jinping wants to improve cooperation with Colombia. Gustavo Petro, Colombia's President, sees this as a change in foreign relations. The Belt and Road Initiative helps China expand its global influence. China also pledged billions for development at the China-CELAC Forum.

Recent attacks in Sudan have resulted in numerous fatalities. The Rapid Support Forces are blamed for the violence. Drone strikes targeted Port Sudan, damaging vital infrastructure. A displacement camp in Darfur was also hit, killing many. Fighting continues between the army and the RSF. The conflict has caused a major humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

Following India's missile strikes on terror targets in Pakistan under Operation Sindoor, the UK has offered support for dialogue and de-escalation between the two nations. UK officials have expressed deep concern over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, urging restraint and warning of the potential for a wider conflict with serious global implications.

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated that a complete victory over Hamas would result in the total destruction of Gaza. He envisioned civilians being relocated to a southern humanitarian zone, eventually emigrating to other countries. Smotrich also voiced his aspiration for the formal annexation of the West Bank during the current government's tenure, a move that defies international concerns.

The UN Security Council convened closed-door consultations on the India-Pakistan situation following Pakistan's request, amidst heightened tensions. Secretary-General Guterres expressed concern over the escalating tensions, particularly after the Pahalgam terror attack, urging restraint and offering UN support for de-escalation. India anticipates no significant outcome from the discussion, viewing it as a perception-shaping effort by Pakistan.

Early Monday, Israeli air strikes in northern Gaza resulted in the deaths of at least 19 people, including women and children, according to Gaza's civil defense agency. The strikes targeted apartments northwest of Gaza City and a house in Beit Lahiya.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's security cabinet has approved a gradual expansion of the offensive against Hamas in Gaza, according to Kan. The military is issuing call-up orders for reserve forces to bolster the campaign. Netanyahu convened the cabinet to discuss the war's next stage, aiming to increase pressure to return hostages and defeat Hamas.

British counter-terrorism police have apprehended five men, including four Iranian nationals, across multiple locations in England. The arrests, which took place on Saturday in Swindon, London, Stockport, Rochdale, and Manchester, are linked to a suspected terrorism plot targeting a specific premises. Authorities are currently investigating potential motivations and assessing any further risks to the public.

A man has surrendered to Italian police for allegedly killing a Muslim worshipper in France. The incident occurred in La Grande Combe. The suspect filmed the attack and shouted insults. French authorities are investigating the possibility of an Islamophobic motive. Emmanuel Macron condemned the act. The Grand Mosque of Paris also condemned the attack.

Pakistan and China have reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace and opposition to unilateral policies during a call between their foreign ministers, following a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan has offered to join an independent probe into the incident and asserted its readiness to respond to any Indian aggression.

Canada's election on Monday follows a campaign dominated by concerns over US President Trump's threats. Mark Carney, replacing Justin Trudeau, is favoured, emphasising his experience to counter Trump's policies. Poilievre focused on domestic issues like rising costs, but Trump's influence and Carney's appeal have tightened the race.

Bangladesh has refuted India's claim of systematic persecution of Hindu minorities following the death of Bhabesh Chandra Roy. The government insists it protects all citizens' rights, regardless of religion. While India condemned the killing and urged protection for minorities, Bangladesh stated the victim knew his companions and awaits viscera analysis to determine the cause of death, urging against speculation.

President Trump's immigration policies face increasing scrutiny as the Supreme Court intervened to halt the deportation of Venezuelan migrants under the Alien Enemies Act. Trump criticized the judiciary, while Democrats warned of a constitutional crisis. Senator Amy Klobuchar accused Trump of undermining constitutional rights.

Amid heightened security for Easter celebrations, a gunman targeted a church in Manampitiya, Sri Lanka, damaging windows but causing no injuries. Police have arrested a suspect, citing a personal dispute with the pastor as the motive. This incident occurs six years after the devastating 2019 Easter Sunday bombings that killed 279 people.

Under President Trump, the U.S. is increasing its use of AI and surveillance to track and arrest immigrants, raising concerns about accuracy and privacy. Agencies like DHS and CBP are using tools like facial recognition and social media monitoring to track immigrants and justify warrants.

Pakistan has expelled over 80,000 Afghan nationals since late March as part of its Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan, with a final deadline of April 30 for those without valid visas. The repatriation drive comes amid accusations from Pakistan blaming Afghan citizens for militant attacks and crimes, which Afghanistan rejects, calling it forced deportation.

Donald Trump reportedly blocked an Israeli plan to strike Iranian nuclear sites as the US pursues a new nuclear deal with Tehran. This decision came after Israel sought US assistance for the attack in May. Trump instead announced direct talks with Iran, despite their increasing uranium enrichment levels nearing weapons grade.

A senior Hamas official stated on Monday that the group is willing to release all Israeli hostages in exchange for a comprehensive prisoner swap and a guaranteed end to the war in Gaza. Negotiations in Cairo, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, stalled as Hamas accused Israel of obstructing a ceasefire.

Maldives plans to eradicate smoking. A new law will prohibit tobacco sales to those born after January 2007. This phases out smoking for future generations. The law is set to take effect on November 1, 2025. Penalties for violations are being developed. Britain has a similar law in progress. New Zealand repealed its generational smoking law last year.

President Trump stated he anticipates a swift decision regarding Iran, following positive discussions in Oman where both nations agreed to meet again this week. While threatening military action if a nuclear deal isn't reached, Trump met with advisors and expressed optimism about the Iran situation. A second round of nuclear talks is reportedly scheduled for next Saturday in Rome.

Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada defended the recent public executions as part of Islamic law, rejecting Western criticism and emphasizing the comprehensive nature of Islam beyond mere rituals. This statement follows the execution of four men convicted of murder in sports stadiums, drawing condemnation from rights groups and the UN.

In Afghanistan, four men were publicly executed on Friday, marking the highest number of executions in a single day since the Taliban's return to power in 2021. The executions, carried out in three provinces, bring the total to ten under the current regime.

Israeli aircraft struck a residential block in war-ravaged northern Gaza, killing at least 23 people, health officials said, as the renewed fighting in the devastated Palestinian enclave showed no signs of letting up.

Tragedy struck the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, as a roof collapse resulted in at least 18 fatalities and over 120 injuries. Rescue teams are diligently searching the wreckage for survivors, while authorities investigate the cause of the incident.

South Korea's cabinet is set to finalize a June 3 date for a presidential election following the removal of Yoon Suk Yeol. This decision will be made official at a meeting on Tuesday. Yoon was ousted for violating his official duty by declaring martial law and deploying troops.

Marine Le Pen, recently convicted of embezzling public funds, led a Paris rally claiming the verdict was politically motivated. Le Pen's party likened the situation to a 'judicial coup,' while thousands of supporters voiced defiance. This event marks an effort to challenge the credibility of France's legal system before the 2027 presidential race.

A second unvaccinated child in West Texas has died from a measles-related illness, as the outbreak spreads to neighboring states and Mexico. The CDC is assisting with response efforts, and health officials emphasize the importance of the measles vaccine, which is 97 percent effective after two doses.

Indonesia's senior economic minister announced that the nation will not retaliate against U.S. tariffs, opting instead for diplomacy and negotiations to protect bilateral trade relations and economic stability. A high-level delegation will be sent to the U.S.

Pakistan is set to expel 3 million Afghan immigrants, focusing on those living illegally. As of April 10, deportations will begin, with specific deadlines imposed for those holding different documentation. The Taliban has requested a more organized process for returning citizens, while affected Afghans fear uncertainty in a country they barely know.

Myanmar, already weakened by four years of civil war, faces new hardships following a 7.7-magnitude earthquake that killed more than 1,600 people. The existing humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by a devastated infrastructure, inadequate healthcare, and disrupted communication, complicating relief efforts amid ongoing conflict.