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Elon Musk Unveils Tesla's Optimus Robot Cooking and Cleaning

Elon Musk has once again captivated social media with a video showcasing Tesla's humanoid robot, Optimus, performing household chores such as cooking, cleaning, and vacuuming. The clip, which Musk dubbed "the biggest product ever," highlights Optimus's ability to learn tasks through natural language instructions and by observing videos online. This comes shortly after the robot gained attention for its dance moves. Since its release, the video has amassed over 56 million views, sparking enthusiastic reactions from users who envision a future where robots like Optimus could revolutionize daily life. Comments ranged from excitement about the robot's potential to enhance independence for the elderly to predictions of an economic boom driven by rapid advancements in robotic technology. The Tesla Optimus account humorously noted, "I'm not just dancing all day, ok," further engaging the online community. sources

Published:
May 23 2025, 2 pm

US, Iran Restart Nuclear Talks in Rome Amid Disputes

Negotiators from Iran and the United States resumed discussions in Rome on Friday, aiming to address the contentious issue of Iran's nuclear ambitions. Despite warnings from Tehran that reaching a new agreement may be challenging due to conflicting demands, both sides recognize the stakes involved. President Trump seeks to limit Iran's nuclear capabilities, which could threaten regional stability and Israel, while Iran aims to alleviate crippling sanctions on its economy. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff are leading the talks, mediated by Oman. Tensions remain high, with Iran intensifying uranium enrichment beyond previous limits, while the U.S. insists on a deal that permits civil nuclear energy without enrichment. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei dismissed U.S. demands as excessive, complicating negotiations further. The outcome of these talks is critical, as failure could escalate tensions, particularly with Israel's concerns over Iran's nuclear potential. sources

Published:
May 23 2025, 6 pm

Harvard Sues Trump Over Foreign Student Enrollment Ban

Harvard University has filed a lawsuit against the US government following the revocation of its eligibility to enroll international students, a decision described as "unlawful and unwarranted" by Harvard President Dr Alan M Garber. In a statement, Garber emphasized that the move jeopardizes the futures of thousands of students and serves as a warning to others pursuing education in the US. The revocation, enacted under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, affects over 7,000 visa holders and follows President Donald Trump's threats to impose such actions unless Harvard complied with government demands for oversight of its governance and curriculum. Harvard, which has enrolled international students for over 70 years, argues that the government's actions violate the First Amendment and due process rights. The university is seeking a temporary restraining order while it pursues legal remedies, asserting that the decision is retaliatory in nature. sources

Published:
May 23 2025, 6 pm

Indians Lose Rs 136 Crores Over Schengen Visa Failures

India has emerged as the third-highest country in terms of financial losses from Schengen visa rejections, with ₹136 crore lost in 2024 due to 1.65 lakh denied applications, according to data from the European Commission. The rejection rate stands at 15%, primarily driven by France, which accounted for the most rejections at 31,314. Overall, over 11.08 lakh applications were lodged from India, with only 5.91 lakh approved. The total number of rejected applications across all countries exceeded 17 lakhs, generating €145 million (₹1,410 crore) in fees, of which Indian applicants contributed €14 million (₹136.6 crore). Additionally, the visa application fee has risen from €80 to €90 for applicants aged 12 and above, exacerbating concerns among travel agencies and potential travellers. The high rejection rates pose significant implications for tourism, business, and academic exchanges between India and European nations, underscoring the need for improved guidelines and application processes. sources

Published:
May 23 2025, 7 pm

Wife of OceanGate CEO Reacts to Titan Implosion Sound

Wendy Rush, wife of OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush, was aboard the support ship Polar Prince when the Titan submersible imploded during its 2023 dive to the Titanic wreck. She heard a loud pop through the communication system, unaware that it marked the moment of the vessel's catastrophic failure, killing all five aboard, including her husband and prominent figures such as British explorer Hamish Harding. Newly released US Coast Guard footage reveals that the Titan, nearly 11,000 feet underwater, went silent approximately 90 minutes into its descent. Despite previous signs of structural failure, OceanGate continued operations, with the ill-fated dive being the sub's 88th. A chilling audio clip captures the moment of implosion, described as a violent blast followed by silence. The Coast Guard has since recovered debris from the ocean floor and is expected to release a final report on the incident later this year. sources

Published:
May 23 2025, 4 pm

Trump Threatens 25% Tariff on Non-US iPhones

US President Donald Trump has warned that Apple will face a 25% tariff on iPhones sold in the United States unless they are manufactured domestically. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated he has communicated his expectations directly to Apple CEO Tim Cook, insisting that iPhones should be produced in the US rather than in countries like India. Following Trump's announcement, Apple shares fell 2.5% in premarket trading, contributing to a decline in US stock index futures. It remains uncertain whether Trump possesses the authority to impose tariffs on specific companies. Meanwhile, Apple is exploring India as a potential manufacturing hub, especially as tariffs on Chinese products have raised concerns about supply chains and increased iPhone prices. The company indicated that a significant portion of its smartphones sold in the US would be sourced from India in the upcoming June quarter. sources

Published:
May 23 2025, 5 pm

NASA Suspends WFH Policy Amid Trump's Funding Cuts

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has mandated that its over 5,500 employees return to on-site work by October 27, effectively ending its work-from-home policy established during the COVID-19 pandemic. The directive requires hybrid and telework staff to be back in their assigned locations by August 25, with exceptions allowed only under rare circumstances and requiring managerial approval. This decision comes amid anticipated budget cuts from the Trump administration, which could see NASA facing a potential 25 percent reduction in funding, impacting critical programs managed by JPL. In an email to staff, the lab emphasized the need for in-person collaboration to foster innovation and problem-solving during this challenging financial climate. Employees must notify management by July 20 of their intent to return or risk losing their positions, following a tumultuous year that included significant layoffs due to funding shortfalls. sources

Published:
May 23 2025, 5 pm

Harvard's Ties to China, Iran Raise US Security Worries

The US government has intensified its scrutiny of Harvard University over allegations of links to China and Iran, raising significant national security concerns. Investigations by the House Select Committee on China and the House Committee on Education and Workforce accuse Harvard of collaborating with sanctioned groups, including the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, and partnering with Chinese military-linked universities on Department of Defense-funded projects. The Department of Homeland Security has also halted foreign student enrollment at Harvard due to claims of fostering pro-terrorist conduct and creating an unsafe campus environment. Harvard has called the government's actions "unlawful," asserting its commitment to international scholarship, but has not publicly addressed the specific allegations regarding its foreign partnerships. The university has until June 2, 2025, to submit relevant documents and communications as part of the ongoing investigation. sources

Published:
May 23 2025, 5 pm

IMF Clarifies $2.3 Billion Bailout Restrictions for Pakistan

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reiterated that Pakistan cannot divert financial assistance provided under its Extended Fund Facility (EFF), emphasizing safeguards against misuse. IMF communications chief Julie Kozack stated that the funds are strictly for addressing balance of payments issues, and any deviation from program conditions could affect future reviews. This clarification comes amid concerns from India regarding the timing of aid disbursements to Pakistan, particularly following a recent terror attack and military escalation. Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman directly urged IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva to reconsider aid approvals, citing historical data showing an increase in Pakistan's arms procurement after receiving IMF assistance. Despite these concerns, the IMF confirmed that Pakistan met its targets for aid approval, having received $2.3 billion so far from a $7 billion EFF deal, while India plans to engage with the World Bank and the Financial Action Task Force regarding Pakistan's funding. sources

Published:
May 23 2025, 5 pm

FBI Calls Killing of Israeli Embassy Staff an Act of Terror

In a shocking incident in Washington, two Israeli Embassy employees were murdered outside the Jewish National Museum during an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee. FBI Assistant Director Steven J. Jensen described the attack as both an act of terror and targeted anti-Semitic violence, affirming the FBI's commitment to thoroughly investigate the case. The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, allegedly shouted "Free, free Palestine!" while being arrested. He faces multiple charges, including the murder of foreign officials and firearm offenses, as stated by the US Department of Justice. Rodriguez reportedly opened fire on the victims, Sarah Lynn Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, before continuing to shoot as one attempted to escape. The investigation, led by the FBI's Washington Field Office, is ongoing, with authorities utilizing surveillance footage and other evidence to build their case against Rodriguez. sources

Published:
May 23 2025, 3 pm

Yunus Won't Resign, Says Special Advisor

Bangladesh's interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, 84, must remain in office to facilitate a peaceful transition of power, according to a cabinet member and special adviser. Yunus, who assumed leadership after a mass uprising ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, has threatened to resign unless he receives backing from political parties. The country is currently embroiled in political unrest, with rival factions protesting in Dhaka over various demands. Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, Yunus's adviser, emphasized the need for stability, asserting that Yunus does not seek power for its own sake. The political crisis intensified as supporters of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) rallied, demanding a specific election date ahead of anticipated polls by June 2026. Tensions have also escalated with the military, as army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman suggested elections should occur by December, prompting Taiyeb to caution against military interference in politics. sources

Published:
May 23 2025, 3 pm

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