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Zuckerberg to testify in landmark social media addiction trial

The trial will mark the first time Mark Zuckerberg will address the safety of his world-dominating platforms directly before a jury.

The Hindu 19 Feb 2026 12:10 am

Amid global uncertainty, assertive Sanae Takaichi has the mandate to pursue structural reforms: Sanjaya Baru

Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi belongs to the Abe lineage and represents continuity with his twin emphasis on restoring Japans economic competitiveness and enhancing its strategic relevance, says public policy analyst Sanjaya Baru

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 10:50 pm

Intense U.S. naval, air power buildup sets stage for potential Iran war

Washington currently has 13 warships in the West Asia: one aircraft carrier the USS Abraham Lincoln nine destroyers and three littoral combat ships, with more on the way, according to a U..S official

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 10:40 pm

Modi, Sanchez stress AI partnership for inclusive progress

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish President Pedro Sanchez on Wednesday hailed artificial intelligence (AI) as a transformative force and underlined the need for closer India-Spain cooperation to leverage its potential for inclusive development. In his talks with Modi, the Spanish president said the AI Impact Summit could emerge as turning point to 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 .

The Siasat Daily 18 Feb 2026 10:31 pm

U.S. energy chief says IEA must 'drop' focus on climate change

Chris Wright threatened last year to pull the United States out of the IEA which was founded to coordinate responses to major disruptions of supplies after the 1973 oil crisis unless it reformed the way it operates.

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 10:31 pm

Pope Leo laments a world in flames at Ash Wednesday service

Before sprinkling ashes on the heads of participants, a sign of mortality, the pope said the ashes could represent the weight of a world that is ablaze, of entire cities destroyed by war

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 10:22 pm

BNP-Led regime vows action over targeting of minorities in Bangladesh

Dhaka: Bangladeshs new BNP-led government on Wednesday, February 18, warned that mob culture will not be tolerated, amid a rise in mob violence, extrajudicial killings and attacks on minority communities. Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the senior-most minister in the new Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) government, said that the law and order issue was one of 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 .

The Siasat Daily 18 Feb 2026 10:09 pm

Its time the old perception of the JVPs India stance changed: Tilvin Silva

Focus of recent visit was development cooperation; Provincial polls, national question, power devolution not discussed

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 9:37 pm

Iran, Russia to conduct joint drills in the Sea of Oman

The joint naval exercise of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Russia will take place tomorrow (Thursday) in the Sea of Oman and in the northern Indian Ocean, says drill spokesman, Rear Admiral Hassan Maghsoudloo.

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 9:17 pm

Fireworks shop explosion in China kills 12 people in the second such blast in days

An explosion at a fireworks shop in Chinas Hubei province has killed 12 people

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 8:56 pm

Pakistan Opposition alliance calls off sit-in; Insists on physicians' access to Imran Khan

A report prepared by a team of doctors who visited Khan on February 15 said that, unaided, Khan's right eye had 6/24 partial vision and 6/9 in the left, adding that with glasses, the ex-premiers vision was 6/9 partial in the right and 6/6 in the left

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 8:49 pm

Fourth alleged rape victim testifies against Norway princess's son

At the time of the fourth alleged rape, he was already under police investigation

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 8:10 pm

Ramzan: Know which dates are harvested in occupied Israeli settlements

Dates are a staple in Ramzan and are especially consumed to end the day-long fast in the holy month. However, the delicious nuggets of sweetness have been embroiled in politics, with Israel allegedly rebranding Palestinian-grown Medjool dates as Jerusalem dates, effectively selling them as a product of their country, according to an investigation and NGO 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 .

The Siasat Daily 18 Feb 2026 8:06 pm

Iran 'drafting framework to advance' future U.S. talks: FM tells IAEA chief

In the call with IAEA chief Rafael Grossi, Mr. Araghchi stressed the Islamic Republic of Iran's focus on drafting an initial and coherent framework to advance future talks, a day after a second round of resumed negotiations with U.S.

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 7:36 pm

Ukraine war talks in Geneva end without agreement on territory

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the two sides agreed on almost all issues related to a ceasefire monitoring mechanism, which will involve the United States, but sensitive issues related to the fate of occupied territory in Ukraines east and the future status of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant remained unresolved

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 6:20 pm

India-AI Impact Summit 2026: Swedens Deputy PM Ebba Busch backs Indias AI leadership, hails EU deal; who is she?

Swedens Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch attended the India-AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, backing Indias growing role in global AI governance and innovation. She underscored deepening India-Sweden ties across technology, energy and trade, welcomed the EU-India free trade agreement as a strategic milestone, and signalled stronger long-term collaboration in AI, industry and investment.

The Times of India 18 Feb 2026 6:11 pm

India-AI Impact Summit 2026: Swedens Deputy PM Ebba Busch endorses Indias AI leadership, says EU deal more than trade

Swedens Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch attended the India-AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, backing Indias growing role in global AI governance and innovation. She underscored deepening India-Sweden ties across technology, energy and trade, welcomed the EU-India free trade agreement as a strategic milestone, and signalled stronger long-term collaboration in AI, industry and investment.

The Times of India 18 Feb 2026 6:11 pm

Polish army bans Chinese vehicles from military premises

WARSAW (Poland), Feb 18: The Polish army has banned Chinese cars from entering military facilities hoping to prevent the collection of sensitive data by technologically advanced automobiles. Modern vehicles equipped with cutting edge sensors and communication systems are capable of uncontrolled acquisition and use of data, the Polish army wrote in a statement justifying the ban. Vehicles are now able to collect video, sound and location and there is a fear that Chinese producers might share some of this potentially [] The post Polish army bans Chinese vehicles from military premises appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 18 Feb 2026 5:33 pm

Atharvana Bhadrakali Pictures acquires Rakasa overseas rights; set to release in 350+ theatres

Atharvana Bhadrakali Pictures acquires its overseas theatrical rights of the movie Rakasa. The film will release in 350 theaters spanning the USA, Europe, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia on April 3.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 5:18 pm

Akshay Kumar on why he never read a book in his life; fans amused by confession

Akshay's confession left all those in the audience extremely amused, particularly because Twinkle Khanna has reinvented herself as a bestselling writer after stepping away from the film industry.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 5:14 pm

Chiranjeevi's emotional message on Sureka's birthday melts fans' hearts [read now]

Megastar Chiranjeevi Konidela has dropped an emotional message to wish his wife, Sureka, on her birthday as well as their wedding anniversary in advance.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 5:11 pm

Saudi Arabia Founding Day 2026: Date, history, significance and celebration of 300 years of statehood

Saudi Arabia commemorates Founding Day on February 22, honouring the 1727 establishment of the first Saudi state by Muhammad bin Saud. This paid public holiday celebrates deep historical roots, cultural heritage and national pride, distinct from National Day's focus on modern unification. Celebrations foster unity and connect citizens to their enduring legacy.

The Times of India 18 Feb 2026 5:09 pm

Over 50 pc of India's AI jobs in Bengaluru, DelhiNCR

Bengaluru and Delhi NCR together account for over 50% of India's AI job openings, with Bengaluru at 25.4% and Delhi NCR at 24.8%, according to a CBRE South Asia report. Mumbai holds 19.2%, and the three cities together cover nearly 70% of AI roles.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 5:09 pm

PM Modi, EU member states discuss strengthening cooperation through FTA

The leaders discussed early FTA implementation and boosting ties in AI, digitalisation, innovation, clean energy, 6G, biofuels, and circular economy. PM Modi praised Croatia's interest in Yoga and Ayurveda and thanked Finland for FTA support.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 5:08 pm

Nifty, Sensex post notable gains amid deeper AI discussions at Impact Summit

At the closing bell, Sensex gained 283 points, or 0.34 per cent to settle at 83,734. Nifty added 93 points, or 0.37 per cent, to close at 25,819.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 5:08 pm

Grokepedia an unrealistic idea that won't work: Wikipedia Co-founder at AI Summit

Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales called an AI-driven Grokepedia unrealistic at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, highlighting that Wikipedia relies on human collaboration, transparency, and verifiable sourcesqualities AI cannot replicate. He also criticized AI platforms for failing to credit original sources.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 5:07 pm

'How can boy and girl indulge in physical relationship before marriage': SC on pre-marital relationships in bail hearing

The Supreme Court stressed caution in pre-marital relationships in a rape-on-false-promise case, suggesting mediation. It also overturned a controversial Allahabad HC ruling, restoring minor rape attempt charges and directing guidelines for judicial sensitivity in sexual offence cases.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 5:07 pm

Epstein files point toward global criminal organisation: UNHRC experts

The Epstein Files suggest the existence of a global criminal trade, while the acts described in them were led by extremist beliefs, according to a statement released by independent experts from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). The statement released on February 17 warned that not only do the alleged acts amount to gravest 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 .

The Siasat Daily 18 Feb 2026 4:54 pm

Brazil steps up trade push in India, targets $20 billion bilateral trade by 2026

India's vast consumer market, rising demand for energy, food, and industrial inputs, along with rapid infrastructure growth, have positioned it as a priority destination for Brazilian exports

The Hindu Businessline 18 Feb 2026 4:53 pm

Emirates CFO Michael Doersam announces retirement, whos next in line?

Emirates Group's Chief Financial and Group Services Officer, Michael Doersam, will step down at the end of June 2026 for family reasons after nearly two decades. His departure marks the end of a significant era for the Dubai-based aviation giant.

The Times of India 18 Feb 2026 4:44 pm

Kremlin says neither China nor Russia have carried out secret nuclear tests

U.S. accused China of conducting a secret nuclear test in 2020 as it called for a new, broader arms control treaty that would bring in China as well as Russia

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 4:33 pm

India skips 85-nation statement on West Bank ahead of Modis Israel visit

Hyderabad:Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis scheduled visit to Israel, India has refrained from signing a joint statement by 85 UN member states condemning Israels decision to seize large areas of the occupied West Bank. Modi will travel to Israel on a two-day visit from February 25 to 26, where he will address the countrys 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 .

The Siasat Daily 18 Feb 2026 4:26 pm

Galgotias University, under fire over Chinese robodog, asked to leave AI Summit

Galgotias University said the robodog on display was procured from Unitree, a Chinese robotics firm, and was being used as a learning tool for students. Following the controversy, Galgotias University was asked to exit the AI Summit immediately. However, the institution said it did not receive any such order from the government.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 3:52 pm

'Salim Khan is not critical, to be off ventilator tomorrow': Doctor slams fake media reports [Watch]

On February 18, Dr. Jalil Parkar from the Lilavati Hospital addressed the media stationed outside and said that legendary writer Salim Khan is doing 'fine'. He even revealed the reason behind putting him on ventilatior.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 3:50 pm

Ramadan 2026 moon sighted in India, US, UK? Hilal sighting committees to confirm first day of fasting; is it from February 19 or 20 and why is crescent timing significant

Muslims worldwide eagerly await the Ramadan crescent moon sighting, marking the start of the holy month. This year, fasting is expected to begin on February 18th in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf, while South Asia, Europe, and North America may commence on February 19th due to local sighting variations. The month emphasizes fasting, prayer, reflection, and charity.

The Times of India 18 Feb 2026 3:17 pm

Ramzan crescent moon not sighted in New Zealand, India awaits dusk

Hyderabad: While India awaits dusk, the Hilal Committee of the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) has confirmed that the Ramzan crescent moon has not been sighted today. The holy month of Ramzan in New Zealand will begin on February 20, 2026. Ramzan crescent moon not sighted in New Zealand, confirmed by others 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 .

The Siasat Daily 18 Feb 2026 2:56 pm

Qualcomm commits up to $150 million for Strategic AI Venture Fund in India

Qualcomm announced it will invest up to $150 million through Qualcomm Ventures to support Indian AI startups at all stages, focusing on automotive, IoT, robotics, and mobile. The announcement coincided with CEO Cristiano Amon's participation in the 'India AI Impact Summit 2026.'

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 2:02 pm

Gold, silver prices rise over macro-economic factors

Gold has support at Rs 1,49,800 and Rs 1,47,700 while resistance at Rs 1,53,150 and Rs 1,55,500. MCX silver has support at Rs 2,24,400 and Rs 2,18,800, and resistance is at Rs 2,32,200 and Rs 2,36,000, an analyst said.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 2:02 pm

Afghanistan releases 3 Pakistani soldiers after Saudi mediation

Kabul: Afghanistan has released three Pakistani soldiers who it had captured during cross-border fighting last October, its government spokesman said Tuesday, February 17. Zabihullah Mujahid said in a statement the three, who had been captured during fighting on October 12, were turned over to a Saudi delegation that mediated between the two sides and had 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 .

The Siasat Daily 18 Feb 2026 1:59 pm

The world according to Marco Rubio

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, addressing the Munich Security Conference, hailed the colonial period as a phase of the Wests expansion

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 1:39 pm

Irans Khamenei threatens to sink US warships in Gulf

Tehran: Irans Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei warned on Tuesday, February 17, that United States (US) warships deployed to Gulf could be sunk to the bottom of the sea, as tensions mounted alongside live-fire military exercises in the strategic Strait of Hormuz and the resumption of nuclear talks. Speaking at an event in Tehran, Khamenei said 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 .

The Siasat Daily 18 Feb 2026 1:38 pm

70st couple who snacked at KFC on way to McDonald's lose 40st with one exercise

Dawid and Rose-Mari used to get through 12litres of Coke and two loaves of bread a day 70st couple who snacked at KFC on way to McDonald's lose 40st with one exercise

India Vision 18 Feb 2026 1:33 pm

Man charged with murder allegedly 'absconded from care' before Merrylands attack

Emergency services responded to reports of a stabbing at about 10am on Tuesday - one person died and several others were critically injured as a resul... Man charged with murder allegedly 'absconded from care' before Merrylands attack

India Vision 18 Feb 2026 1:32 pm

Welcomed me with open arms: Kiara Advani remembers late father-in-law in emotional post

Sidharth Malhotra's father, Sunil Malhotra, passed away. Kiara Advani pens an emotional note remembering him.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 1:31 pm

Kuwait to introduce freelance visa with KD 1,000 fee and no sponsor required - Heres how to apply?

Kuwait is introducing a new freelance residency permit within two months, allowing skilled expatriates to work independently without an employer sponsor. This initiative, with an annual fee of KD 750-1,000, aims to combat visa trading and tighten labor market regulations by redirecting payments to the government.

The Times of India 18 Feb 2026 1:30 pm

Samsung Galaxy S26 will be costlier; breaks 3-year no-hike streak

Samsung Electronics is likely to raise prices for its upcoming Galaxy S26 series, marking its first increase in three years, amid rising global memory chip costs driven by the AI boom. The new flagship smartphone is expected to be unveiled at the Galaxy Unpacked 2026 event in San Francisco on February 25.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 1:24 pm

Salim Khan suffered haemorrhage; stable after surgery; Salman Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Javed Akhtar visit Lilavati Hospital

Veteran lyricist and screenwriter Salim Khan, father of Salman Khan, underwent surgery at Lilavati Hospital after being rushed there by the family physician. He is currently stable and on a ventilator, under close medical supervision. The press briefing will be held today.

IBTimes 18 Feb 2026 1:23 pm

Watch: Iran partially shuts Strait of Hormuz, State media broadcasts military drills

Iranian state media broadcast footage on Tuesday (February 17) of Revolutionary Guards drills in and around the Strait of Hormuz, hours after talks began, as semi-official Fars said parts of the waterway would close for a few hours for security precautions.

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 1:06 pm

Zelenskyy says Trump exerting undue pressure on him

Any plan requiring Ukraine to give up territory that Russia had not captured in the eastern Donbas region would be rejected by Ukrainians if put to a referendum, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 1:05 pm

Eight suspected terrorists killed in Pakistans Balochistan

A spokesperson of the Balochistan Counter Terrorism Department told the media that the CTD had carried out an intelligence-based raid near Darakshan town on the outskirts of Quetta in which the militants were killed

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 12:49 pm

Omans bold new expat permit pricing: Fee hikes and discounts to push Omanisation goals

Oman is revolutionising foreign worker hiring with a tiered fee system for work permits, directly linking costs to national employment targets. Companies meeting local hire quotas receive significant discounts, while those falling short face doubled fees. This initiative aims to boost Omani employment and reduce reliance on expatriate labour, reflecting a regional trend.

The Times of India 18 Feb 2026 12:40 pm

Over 80 UN member states condemn Israels de facto annexation of West Bank

UN warns that Israel's plan will lead to widespread dispossession of Palestinian land in the occupied West Bank. Over 80 UN member states condemn Israels de facto annexation of West Bank

India Vision 18 Feb 2026 12:35 pm

Washington appoints new US envoy on Tibetan human rights

China has previously criticised the role, accusing the US of interfering in Chinas internal affairs. Washington appoints new US envoy on Tibetan human rights

India Vision 18 Feb 2026 12:34 pm

LIVE: Israel steps up attacks, land takeover across occupied West Bank

Ramped-up raids, violent settler attacks and bulldozed homes - Israel escalates its assault on the occupied West Bank. LIVE: Israel steps up attacks, land takeover across occupied West Bank

India Vision 18 Feb 2026 12:33 pm

Philippine VP Sara Duterte announces run for president in 2028

Announcement follows multiple impeachment complaints against the vice president over allegations of corruption. Philippine VP Sara Duterte announces run for president in 2028

India Vision 18 Feb 2026 12:32 pm

Iran says it is closing parts of Hormuz Strait as US talks resume

The drills, announced previously, come as Iran and the US start a second round of negotiations in Geneva. Oil reversed losses on the news, with Brent trading 0.1% higher to $68.74 a barrel

The Hindu Businessline 18 Feb 2026 12:13 pm

Dubai Metro announces new Ramadan 2026 timings, adds late-night Friday service

Dubai's RTA has adjusted public transport timings for Ramadan 2026, with the Metro operating extended hours to accommodate late-night prayers and gatherings. Paid parking offers an Iftar Break with free periods, while Salik tolls have reduced rates outside peak hours, ensuring smooth travel throughout the holy month.

The Times of India 18 Feb 2026 12:12 pm

From bloodshed to blooms: inside the making of Bondis living memorial

Installations made with sunflowers, roses, orchids, wattles and bougainvillea left at the 2025 Bondi Beach massacre site will be unveiled at the Sydney Jewish Museum next year

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 12:08 pm

Ramadan Begins In UAE: First fast observed as work hours shift; Iftar at 6:18 PM in Dubai

Ramadan 1447 AH commenced on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, following verified crescent moon sightings across the Middle East, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. Dubai residents began their fast at dawn, with Imsak at 5:24 AM and Fajr at 5:34 AM. Evening prayers and community gatherings will mark the spiritual observance throughout the month.

The Times of India 18 Feb 2026 11:50 am

Europe squares up to Big Tech, risking ire of Washington

European nations are ratcheting up the pressure on social media companies, risking a backlash from the United States

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 11:22 am

ResistDance at Lincoln Memorial: First Amendment Troop honours Renee Good and Alex Pretti

The event faced interruption by law enforcement during a follow-up performance at the John F. Kennedy Center

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 11:02 am

Allegations in Epstein files may amount to crimes against humanity, say U.N. experts

The crimes, they said, showed a commodification and dehumanisation of women and girls

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 10:47 am

Judge blocks deportation of Palestinian activist Mohsen Mahdawi who led protests at Columbia

The Trump administration may appeal the decision

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 10:35 am

Iran upbeat after U.S. talks but Vance says 'red lines' not met

Iran's supreme leader had warned earlier in the day that the country had the ability to sink a U.S. warship recently deployed to the region, after Trump alluded to consequences should the two sides fail to strike a deal

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 10:26 am

Peru Congress impeaches interim President after four months in office

Mr. Jeri took over from unpopular leader Dina Boluarte, who was also impeached amid protests against corruption and a wave of violence linked to organised crime

The Hindu 18 Feb 2026 9:13 am

India, France announce Joint Declaration of Intent for cooperation in critical minerals

The leaders recognise the key role of critical minerals in supporting a green and digital economy, emerging technologies and advanced manufacturing

The Hindu Businessline 18 Feb 2026 9:12 am