Watch: Several killed in fireworks unit blast in Kerala | Above the Fold | 21.04.2026
Todays Above the Fold episode, take a closer look at the tragic blast in Thrissur, Kerala. We begin with Indias outreach to West Asia, including a key visit to Saudi Arabia, followed by the end of campaigning ahead of the Tamil Nadu and West Bengal Assembly polls. In global news, Apple is set for a leadership change, and more.
Uncertainty clouds Iran talks as ceasefire deadline nears
As of 7:30 p.m. Pakistan time, a formal response about Irans participation is still awaited, Pakistans Information Minister said in a statement
Can Israels economy sustain conflicts on multiple fronts?
The Bank of Israels preliminary estimates suggest that Israels war with Iran came at the cost of 35 billion shekels ($11.52 billion) in budgetary expenses. Its operations in Gaza till 2025 cost the country around 8.6% of its annual gross domestic product.
Trumps cryptic post adds uncertainty as US-Iran ceasefire talks hang in balance
Iran Foreign Ministry condemns arrests in UAE as 'baseless'
Iran accuses Gulf states of allowing U.S. forces to carry out attacks from their territory, and launched missile and drone strikes against what it calls U.S. interests in those countries throughout the war
Taiwan president cancels Africa trip blaming Chinese pressure
Madagascar foreign ministry official said the overflight request had been denied
Tim Cook an incredible guy who kissed my a**: Trump on outgoing Apple CEO
US President Donald Trump on Tuesday, April 21, paid tribute to outgoing Apple chief executive officer (CEO) Tim Cook, calling him an incredible guy in a Truth Social post that recounted a series of favours he said he had done for the tech executive, while also declaring that Cook had outperformed even company co-founder Steve Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Donald Trump says administration weighing currency swap with UAE
U.S. President expressed surprise that the nation needs assistance, but made clear he was open to the prospect of making the move to help meet his ally's concerns
Astronauts for America Founders Share Mission Behind Nonprofit
Mass trial for nearly 500 alleged gang members in El Salvador
Mass trial for nearly 500 alleged gang members in El Salvador Mass trial for nearly 500 alleged gang members in El Salvador
What was the Iran nuclear deal Trump dumped in search of better terms?
Trump withdrew the US from the JCPOA in 2018, branding it 'the worst deal ever' and seeking stronger terms. What was the Iran nuclear deal Trump dumped in search of better terms?
Are we heading into a world divided by AI tribes?
Four thinkers join Mohamed Hassan to explore how AI is reshaping our politics, culture and collective thinking. Are we heading into a world divided by AI tribes?
Iran-US war: Four scenarios for whats next as talks stumble
Between an expiring ceasefire and a possible deal lies a range of ways in which the war could proceed, analysts say. Iran-US war: Four scenarios for whats next as talks stumble
Donald Trump says U.S. in very, very strong position for Iran talks
Trump accused Iran of repeatedly violating the ceasefire with the U.S. in the war in West Asia, as both countries deliberate over a possible new round of peace negotiations
Nearly 1,000 killed in road accidents in J&K in 2025; Jammu worst affected
Despite a declining trend in road accidents over the past three years, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir recorded 972 deaths and over 7,500 injuries in 5,258 accidents in 2025. Jammu district emerged as the worst affected.
Muslim BJP leader storms Lenskart store, applies tilak to all employees amid bindi-hijab row
BJP leader entered a Mumbai store and confronted the staff over claims that religious symbols like the tilak and bindi were discouraged. The clip shows that she is applying tilak to employees and tying sacred threads (kalawa), while questioning the store management and raising objections over the reported restrictions.
U.S. forces board oil tanker previously sanctioned for smuggling Iranian crude oil
Ship-tracking data showed the Tifani in the Indian Ocean between Sri Lanka and Indonesia
Fired former U.K. official says he felt political pressure to approve Mandelson as U.S. Ambassador
European Union expects positive decisions on 90 billion euro loan to Ukraine on April 22
We expect some positive decisions tomorrow on the 90 billion loan, says European Union's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas
3 reasons war between US, Israel and Iran is headed for frozen conflict
Sydney: With a shaky ceasefire in place between the US, Israel and Iran and little progress on talks to resolve the complex issues at the heart of the war where is this conflict going? The most likely scenario is a frozen conflict. A frozen conflict is not static, but is an unresolved war Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Apple CEO Tim Cook on What Advice Hed Give His Successor
Myanmar President seeks peace talks within 100 days, rebels reject offer
For groups that have not yet engaged in dialogue and negotiation, we also invite them to come participate in discussions by the final deadline of July 31, says President Min Aung Hlaing
Pak receives second tranche of USD 1 bn loan from Saudi Arabia
Karachi: Pakistan has received the second and final tranche of USD 1 billion from Saudi Arabia, as part of a USD 3 billion aid package aimed at boosting its foreign reserves, the state bank said on Tuesday. Last week, Saudi Arabia pledged USD 3 billion in deposits for Pakistan and extended its existing USD 5 Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Japan ends post-WWII ban on lethal weapons exports in break with pacifist era
The approval by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis Cabinet of the new guideline clears a final set of hurdles for many arms sales, including Japanese-developed warships, combat drones and other weapons
Kuwaiti actress Hayat Al-Fahad, a pioneering force in Gulf television and theatre, has passed away at 78 after a prolonged illness. Her death marks the end of an era for the region's entertainment industry, where she was a defining cultural voice for over five decades. Al-Fahad's career spanned acting, writing, and producing, leaving an indelible mark on Arab drama.
UK electricity price shake-up: Will your bills rise or fall under the new clean energy plan?
The UK government is overhauling its electricity pricing to decouple household bills from volatile gas markets, aiming to leverage cheaper renewable energy. This once-in-a-generation opportunity seeks to deliver cleaner, more secure, and ultimately cheaper power by giving renewables a greater role in price setting.
War in Iran is causing biggest energy crisis in history, IEA says
The war in West Asia has choked up maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, which is a conduit for a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas flows
Iranian supertanker breaches lockade line after offloading 2 million barrels of crude oil
The successful transit comes amid heightened monitoring of Iranian maritime activities and commercial shipping lanes in the region
Scam alert: Ships stranded near Hormuz receive fake messages offering safe transit
Fake messages ask for payments in cryptocurrency for safe passage through the strait as ships continue to remain stranded amid tensions
Trumps Board of Peace holds talks with DP World on rebuilding Gaza, FT says
Rehabilitation of Gaza, where two years of Israeli bombardment have destroyed four-fifths of buildings, has been projected by global institutions to cost around $70 billion
Russian forces took 1,700 square km of Ukraine so far this year, Gerasimov says
US positive on Iran deal but talks still uncertain as ceasefire end nears
The Iranian official, speaking to Reuters, said Tehran was positively reviewing its participation in talks, despite earlier ruling them out, but stressed no decision had been made
Gunman kills Canadian, wounds other tourists at Mexicos Teotihuacan pyramids
Tim Cook to step down as Apple CEO after nearly 15 years
San Francisco: Apple CEO Tim Cook is stepping down from the job that he inherited from the late Steve Jobs, ending a nearly 15-year reign that saw the companys market value soar by more than $3.6 trillion during an iPhone-fueled era of prosperity. Cook, 65, will turn the CEO duties to Apples head of hardware Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Japan approves scrapping a ban on lethal weapons exports in a change of its postwar pacifist policy
The approval by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's Cabinet of the new guideline clears a final set of hurdles for Japan's postwar arms sales
Archaeologists find a 1,500-year-old church next to a Zoroastrian site of worship in Iraq
Japan approves scrapping ban on lethal weapons exports in a change of its postwar pacifist policy
The approval by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's Cabinet of the new guideline clears a final set of hurdles for Japan's postwar arms sales
Who is the new Apple CEO, John Ternus and whats next for Tim Cook?
John Ternuss appointment comes at a time when the tech industry at large is tinkering with the advancements in artificial intelligence.
New Zealand Prime Minister Luxon survives party leadership vote
Wellington: New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Tuesday, April 21, that he had survived a vote on his leadership among his own partys lawmakers, after recent slumps in the polls prompted speculation he might be ousted. The vote, during a routine meeting of Luxons center-right National Party lawmakers, was held privately. Luxon emerged afterward, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Iran-Israel war LIVE: Vance to travel to Pakistan on Tuesday for Iran talks, says reports
Iran's Revolutionary Guards have warned of targeting any vessel attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz without permission.
The Onion launches new bid to take over Alex Jones Infowars and turn it into a parody platform
The satirical news outlet The Onion has a new plan to take over conspiracy theorist Alex Jones Infowars platforms and turn them into parodies
Government to propose electricity price changes in clean power push
Trump claims US is winning against Iran ahead of crucial Islamabad talks
His remarks, made on Truth Social, also included sharp criticism of sections of the American media
High school principal crowned prom king after stopping gunman
A deal to end the Iran war seemed close. Then Trump started posting on social media
White House: Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer will leave job
Donald Trump 'planning shock nuclear retreat' to end conflict with Iran
Iran could be allowed to resume uranium enrichment in a decade in a new deal that is being weighed up by Donald Trump in a bid to reach a compromise i... Donald Trump 'planning shock nuclear retreat' to end conflict with Iran
NATO jets scrambled as nuclear-capable Russian bombers spark major alert
The Russian Defence Ministry confirmed Tu-22M3 long-range bombers were escorted by Su-35 fighters during a four-hour mission over international waters... NATO jets scrambled as nuclear-capable Russian bombers spark major alert
California says Amazon pressured retailers to boost prices on their websites to not undercut it
A 2,000-year-old underwater city found in Turkey shows advanced urban planning
6 missing after U.S.-flagged ship found overturned following typhoon
Woman charged in US with trafficking arms to Sudan for Iranian government
US accuses Iranian citizen of brokering arms deals, including for drones and ammunition, with Sudan Ministry of Defence. Woman charged in US with trafficking arms to Sudan for Iranian government
Germany summons Russian ambassador citing direct threats
Berlin calls undefined threats 'an attempt to undermine support for Ukraine and test our unity'. Germany summons Russian ambassador citing direct threats
Ukrainian drone attack hits Russias Tuapse port
Plumes of black smoke were seen after Ukrainian drones targeted Russias Black Sea port of Tuapse. Ukrainian drone attack hits Russias Tuapse port
India is violating its obligations under international law: Francesca Albanese
In an exclusive interview with The Hindu, the UN Special Rapporteur speaks on her latest report on the situation of human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, flags legal and moral concerns for countries backing Israel
Watch: Can Iran and the U.S. find middle ground?
In the latest episode of Above the Fold, we look at the next phase of peace talks between the US and Iran appear to be uncertain ahead of Wednesdays ceasefire deadline. In other news, fresh violence that has gripped Manipur; a powerful earthquake that jolted Japan; the deadliest mass shooting in Louisiana; updates from the fireworks factory explosion in Virudhunagar, and more.
Biggest party in Romanian coalition withdraws support for PM, political crisis looms
What is President Donald Trump's approval rating? See latest polls
Trump says Iran must never have nuclear weapon, dismisses critics as fake
US President Donald Trump has reiterated his hardline stance on Iran, declaring that Tehran can never have a nuclear weapon while dismissing media reports and opinion polls as fake and rigged. In a post on Truth Social on Monday, April 20, Trump insisted he was not influenced by Israel in escalating the conflict, instead citing Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Seized Iranian ship likely carrying equipment deemed dual-use by US, sources say
Adobe launches AI suite for corporate clients as competition heats up
What are today's mortgage interest rates: April 20, 2026?
FBI Director Kash Patel sues the Atlantic claiming false reporting about drinking, absences
US Supreme Court rejects Massachusetts school gender-identity policy challenge
U.K.'s Starmer to face grilling from MPs over Mandelson scandal
Mr. Starmer has insisted that he and other ministers were not told until last week that Mr. Mandelson had failed the independent vetting process, which he has branded unforgivable
How GLP-1s, Male Factors, and Lifestyle Affect Fertility Issues
California treasurer Fiona Ma tied to Chinese school cited in scathing audit
They tried everything, and nothing worked. Now, women are turning to cannabis for help
Jenna Bush Hager Sits Down With Former US Presidents
Pope Leo XIV Moves to End War of Words With President Trump
Israel condemns soldier's desecration of crucifix in south Lebanon
Biggest party in Romanian coalition set to demand PM's resignation, political crisis looms
Mr. Bolojan's coalition government of four pro-European parties came together 10 months ago after a polarizing presidential election in an attempt to keep the surging far right from power but they have constantly clashed over reform measures
Merz touts Brazil's potential on critical metals, says Germany can supply technology
Dubai launches work from park initiative to turn public spaces into flexible work hubs
Dubai is transforming public parks into Work from Park spaces, offering nature-based work environments for professionals, freelancers, and small businesses. This initiative, supported by Group AMANA and Letswork, aims to enhance quality of life and boost economic activity. The first location opens in May 2026 at Al Barsha Pond Park, with more to follow.
'They told me he was dead': Children born near army base learn truth about UK soldier dads
Trump screamed at aides, kept out of the room after jet downed in Iran: WSJ
A US F-15 fighter jet shot down over Iran triggered turmoil inside the White House, with Donald Trump having screamed at aides for hours before being kept out of the room during detailed rescue planning, according to a recent The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) report. The incident occurred in early April after Trump was informed Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
India, South Korea decide to start negotiations to upgrade economic pact
The two sides also resolved to work together to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region
Dubai will host a highly anticipated concert on May 9, 2026, featuring iconic Arabic music stars Angham and Majid Al Mohandis at the Coca-Cola Arena. Promoted as the event of the season, the show promises an unforgettable night of pure music and emotion, blending classic ballads and modern hits.
Major 7.5-magnitude quake hits off Japan, triggers tsunami warnings
Doubts over talks between Iran, US after violence flares in Strait of Hormuz
Over the weekend, the US attacked and seized an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel that it said had tried to evade its blockade of Iranian ports
Sri Lankas Tamil parties seek sustained Indian push to realise spirit of Indo-Lanka Accord
Vice-President assures them that Indias position on devolution stands; provincial polls discussed with Sri Lankan side
Iran to continue US talks not at any cost as Islamabad talks loom
Irans top lawmaker Ebrahim Azizi said Tehran will pursue further negotiations with Washington but not at any cost, stressing that engagement will be strictly bound by national interests and security considerations. On Monday, April 20, Azizi said Irans openness to dialogue does not mean it will accept US negotiating practices, adding that Tehran expects Washington Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Cheap Batteries Are Taking Over the Worlds Power Grids
UAE issues new school rules as students return to classrooms with strict safety measures
Over a million UAE students returned to classrooms on Monday, April 20, for a full-scale resumption of in-person learning after weeks of distance education. Strict safety protocols and a nationwide traffic management plan are in place, while hybrid learning options remain available for parents. The move signifies a broader return to normalcy following regional stability.
U.S., allied forces kick off combat drills with Philippines despite Washington's focus on Iran
The large-scale combat drills between the U.S. and Philippines will expand this year to include other militaries, including from Japan, France and Canada, which have signed visiting forces agreements with Manila
HiPP recalls baby food jars in Austria after samples found with rat poison
Vienna: Baby food brand HiPP is recalling some of its baby food jars after samples in Austria, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic tested positive for rat poison, officials said Sunday, April 19. Authorities believe the tampering occurred in 190-gram jars of baby food made with carrots and potatoes for 5-month-olds, which were sold in SPAR Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
UK PM faces backlash after appointment of Epstein associate as Ambassador
London: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will try on Monday, April 20, to get a grip on a crisis that has left power slipping from his grasp. Starmer will face a tough barrage of questions in Parliament when he stands up to explain why Peter Mandelson, a scandal-tarnished politician and friend of Jeffrey Epstein, became Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Hormuz traffic at standstill as US vessel seizure widens risk
Transits through the waterway have reduced to a trickle over seven weeks of war in the Persian Gulf, as Iran tightens control in retaliation for US and Israeli strikes
