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Germany Calls for Immediate End to Gaza Aid Blockade

Germany has called on Israel to "immediately" allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, following Israel's decision to block aid amid stalled truce extension talks. Foreign ministry spokesman Sebastian Fischer emphasized the necessity of unimpeded access to humanitarian assistance, stating that using aid access as leverage in negotiations is unacceptable. Germany, a long-time ally of Israel, also urged Hamas to release the hostages it is holding, asserting that the group must end the suffering of the hostages and their families. The recent conflict was ignited by Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. While Israel announced a truce extension proposed by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, Hamas has rejected it in favor of moving to a second phase of the truce that could lead to a permanent resolution. Fischer reiterated the importance of negotiations for the release of hostages and the humanitarian situation in Gaza, as well as for future peace in the region. sources

Published:
Mar 03 2025, 6 pm

Pope Francis Experienced Two Acute Respiratory Failure Episodes

Pope Francis experienced two acute respiratory episodes on Monday, necessitating bronchoscopies as he continues to recover from pneumonia, according to the Vatican. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalized for 18 days—the longest of his papacy—was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14 with bronchitis that escalated into pneumonia. The Vatican's medical bulletin revealed that the bronchoscopies were performed to clear significant mucus buildup, and the pope has resumed non-invasive mechanical ventilation. Despite being alert and cooperative, his prognosis remains "reserved," indicating uncertainty about his recovery. On Sunday, Francis participated in mass and met with senior Vatican officials but missed his traditional Angelus prayer for the third consecutive week. In a written message, he expressed gratitude for the public's prayers, stating he feels supported by the affection of the faithful during this challenging time. sources

Published:
Mar 04 2025, 12 am

Zelensky Aims to End War Quickly

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed a strong desire to conclude the ongoing conflict in Ukraine "as soon as possible," emphasizing the need for substantial diplomacy to achieve peace. In a social media post on Monday, Zelensky highlighted the importance of US support in this endeavor, amid ongoing criticism from former US President Donald Trump regarding his stance on a ceasefire. Zelensky's comments reflect a continued push for international assistance as Ukraine navigates the complexities of the war. The call for an urgent resolution underscores the humanitarian and geopolitical stakes involved, as the nation seeks to stabilize its situation and move towards a peaceful future. sources

Published:
Mar 04 2025, 1 am

India Offers Legal Aid for UP Woman Executed in UAE

The Indian Embassy in the UAE has confirmed that Shahzadi Khan, a 33-year-old Indian national from Uttar Pradesh, was executed on February 15, 2025, after being convicted of murdering an infant under her care. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that they provided extensive legal assistance, including mercy petitions, to Khan's family. Khan was sentenced to death by the UAE's Court of Cassation following a confession alleged to have been coerced under duress. Her father, Shabbir Khan, had sought intervention from Indian authorities, but his pleas ended in tragedy after the embassy was informed of her execution on February 28. The family has been notified that they can attend her last rites scheduled for March 5, and a dedicated contact number for the embassy has been provided to them. The case has drawn attention to the complexities of legal proceedings for Indian nationals abroad. sources

Published:
Mar 03 2025, 11 pm

Conan O'Brien's Russian Joke at Oscars After Trump-Zelensky Feud

The Oscars, Hollywood's premier annual event, unfolded on Sunday as a spectacle of glamour and emotion, yet notably lacked political discourse, with only a single mention of the Ukraine-Russia conflict. First-time host Conan O'Brien delivered a light-hearted evening, making a subtle jab at the Trump administration while celebrating the film "Anora," which triumphed with five awards, including Best Picture. O'Brien quipped about Americans' excitement over a character standing up to a powerful Russian, eliciting strong applause from the audience. This humorous moment followed a tumultuous meeting between Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which erupted into a heated exchange over U.S. military support for Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia continues to control nearly 20% of Ukraine, with the conflict framed by divergent narratives from both sides regarding its origins and implications. sources

Published:
Mar 03 2025, 11 pm

Jaishankar's UK, Ireland Visit Scheduled for March 4-9

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will begin a six-day visit to the UK and Ireland on Tuesday, aiming to enhance bilateral cooperation. His trip will start in London, where he will meet with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy to discuss a range of topics, including the ongoing Ukraine conflict and the ambitious India-UK free trade agreement, which was recently revisited during British Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds' visit to New Delhi. The backdrop of Jaishankar's talks follows a contentious exchange between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, coinciding with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's summit on seeking a peace deal for Ukraine. In Ireland, Jaishankar will engage with his counterpart Simon Harris and connect with the Indian community. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that this visit will strengthen India's strategic partnerships with both the UK and Ireland across various sectors. sources

Published:
Mar 04 2025, 12 am

Trump's Gold Card Visa Scheme Fails to Impress Billionaires

Days after President Donald Trump unveiled his $5 million "gold card" visa scheme, aimed at attracting wealthy individuals to the U.S. and reducing the federal deficit, a number of billionaires have expressed strong disapproval. A recent Forbes poll revealed that nearly 75% of billionaires surveyed showed little interest in the programme, with some questioning the rationale behind spending such a sum when business opportunities are readily available at a lower cost. Concerns over U.S. tax implications, particularly the country's policy of taxing citizens on global income, were highlighted as significant deterrents. While Trump assured that gold card holders would not be taxed on foreign income, skepticism remains regarding Congressional approval for the plan. The gold card is intended to replace the existing EB-5 immigrant investor visa programme, offering similar residency rights through direct purchase. Further details are expected to be released in the coming weeks. sources

Published:
Mar 03 2025, 9 pm

Russia Bans Japan's Foreign Minister and 8 Others Permanently

Russia has issued a permanent entry ban on nine Japanese citizens, including Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwai and executives from major companies such as Isuzu and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in retaliation for Japan's sanctions linked to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The Russian Foreign Ministry announced the sanctions on Monday, following a similar move in July 2024, which targeted 13 other Japanese nationals, including Toyota's chairman. Tokyo has condemned these actions, highlighting the growing tensions between the two nations. Moscow frequently employs such entry restrictions against foreigners as a countermeasure to sanctions or opposition to its military operations in Ukraine, with similar lists affecting citizens from the US, Canada, and other countries, encompassing hundreds of individuals. sources

Published:
Mar 03 2025, 10 pm

Netanyahu Advocates for Gazans' "Freedom to Leave

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for Palestinians in Gaza to be given "the freedom to leave," endorsing a controversial plan proposed by former US President Donald Trump. In a speech to the Israeli parliament on Monday, Netanyahu described Trump's approach as "visionary and innovative," suggesting it would facilitate the migration of Gazans. He emphasized the need to provide residents of Gaza with a "real choice," implying that the option to leave should be made available. This statement comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, as Israel continues to grapple with the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Critics of such proposals argue that they may undermine the rights of Palestinians and exacerbate the already dire conditions faced by those living in the territory. sources

Published:
Mar 03 2025, 10 pm

Trump Rejects Zelensky's Ceasefire Position

In a tense exchange, Donald Trump criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, stating that the U.S. would "not put up with" Zelensky's rhetoric much longer, particularly after the Ukrainian leader suggested that the end of the war with Russia was distant. Trump accused Zelensky of being disrespectful and ungrateful for U.S. military support during a heated meeting at the White House, which ended with Zelensky being asked to leave and a crucial deal on mineral resources left unsigned. Following this confrontation, Trump convened his top advisors to discuss the next steps regarding Ukraine, amid reports that he might consider cutting military aid. Meanwhile, European leaders, who met with Zelensky in London over the weekend, expressed their reliance on U.S. support for any peacekeeping efforts, highlighting the complexities of the ongoing conflict and diplomatic negotiations. sources

Published:
Mar 03 2025, 10 pm

Ariane 6 Rocket Launch Canceled Minutes Before Liftoff

The inaugural commercial launch of Europe's heavy-lift rocket, Ariane 6, was abruptly postponed just minutes before its scheduled departure from Kourou, French Guiana, due to a detected "anomaly" on the ground. This setback adds to a series of delays as Europe aims to establish independent access to space amid shifting geopolitical dynamics following a rapprochement between Moscow and Washington. The Ariane 6 was set to deploy the CSO-3 satellite, completing a trio of French military imaging satellites crucial for military operations. With Europe unable to utilize Russian Soyuz rockets since the Ukraine invasion and the retirement of the Ariane 5, the urgency for strategic autonomy in space has intensified. Arianespace's head, David Cavailloles, expressed confidence in future launches, emphasizing the need for Europe to rely on its capabilities to ensure security and competitiveness in the evolving space industry. sources

Published:
Mar 03 2025, 10 pm

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