GGS NEWS

Iran Slams Trump’s ‘Baseless’ Claims, Blames US Strikes for Killing 3 Indian Sailors

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 11:21:25 +0530

Iran Slams Trump’s ‘Baseless’ Claims, Blames US Strikes for Killing 3 Indian Sailors

Iran Slams Trump’s ‘Baseless’ Claims, Blames US Strikes for Killing 3 Indian Sailors

ANI

New Delhi : The Embassy of Iran in India on Saturday rejected the US President Donald Trump's allegations regarding an Indian vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, calling them "baseless".

It also accused Washington of attempting to deflect attention from recent attacks on commercial ships carrying Indian seafarers.

The Iranian Embassy said the US attacked three Indian vessels in less than a week, resulting in the death of three Indian sailors, and described the actions as "brutal" and "pathetic".

In a post on X, the official account of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India shared, "The U.S. president's accusation against Iran regarding an Indian vessel in the Strait of Hormuz is simply baseless. It is an attempt to divert public attention from the brutal fact that the U.S. has attacked 3 Indian vessels in less than a week and killed 3 innocent Indian sailors. That's pathetic!"

The U.S. president's accusation against Iran regarding an Indian vessel in the Strait of Hormuz is simply baseless. It is an attempt to divert public attention from the brutal fact that the U.S. has attacked 3 Indian vessels in less than a week and killed 3 innocent Indian… https://t.co/2UiXWAMulM

— Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) June 12, 2026

This comes after Trump alleged that Iran was behind the attacks on three vessels carrying Indian seafarers near the Hormuz Strait, which resulted in the deaths of three, despite the US Central Command having confirmed that the strikes were carried out by American naval forces, calling the incident "totally unacceptable".

His remarks followed Iran's condemnation of the United States attacks on commercial vessels carrying Indian seafarers, resulting in the death of three in the Gulf of Oman, describing the actions as "brutal" and accusing Washington of engaging in "lawless conduct" that threatens global peace and maritime security.

In a statement on X, Esmaeil Baqaei, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iran, expressed condolences over the deaths of Indian nationals killed in the attacks and called for international accountability.

"The brutal U.S. attacks on Indian commercial vessels, which have killed at least three Indian nationals, stand as clear evidence of America's ongoing policy of armed robbery and State piracy. We extend our sympathies to the families and friends of the slain Indian sailors and offer our sincere condolences to the Indian people and government," the statement said.

He further urged the international community to take action against the repeated violations of international norms.

"The international community must hold the United States accountable for its lawless conduct, which continues to threaten global peace and security while endangering the freedom of navigation," the spokesperson added.

US plans to use seized Iranian funds for Gulf reconstruction amid faltering ceasefire: Report

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Sun, 7 Jun 2026 12:00:10 +0530

US plans to use seized Iranian funds for Gulf reconstruction amid faltering ceasefire: Report

US plans to use seized Iranian funds for Gulf reconstruction amid faltering ceasefire: Report

Washington : The US Treasury Department is planning to leverage Iranian assets to assist Gulf allies in rebuilding from destruction inflicted by Tehran's regime during the ongoing war, according to a CBS News report.

A source familiar with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's thinking revealed on Saturday that the department "intends to utilise all available authorities to make Iranian assets accessible for rebuilding and repair efforts related to any future damage inflicted by Iran."

The directive marks a significant shift in how Washington intends to handle frozen foreign capital.

Bessent has instructed officials to obtain detailed financial projections from partner nations in the Gulf regarding the total expenditure required to fix infrastructure hit since the hostilities erupted.

Furthermore, the Treasury is poised to examine whether these seized assets can legally and practically be deployed to fund restorations for destruction that has "already been sustained by Gulf allies during the conflict," the source told CBS News.

Currently, it remains uncertain which specific holdings will be targeted to fund the reconstruction initiatives -- whether liquid funds held in frozen bank accounts or physical property such as oil tankers.

The strategy comes at a delicate time for international diplomacy. During concurrent indirect peace negotiations between Washington and Tehran, Iran has maintained that "any deal would require the lifting of sanctions to allow the release of billions of dollars in Iranian frozen assets abroad."

Since the outbreak of hostilities in late February, Tehran has carried out sporadic drone and missile offensives targeting multiple Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and Oman.

According to the source cited by CBS News, the overarching objective remains holding the regime financially accountable for its regional aggression while alleviating the economic burden on key US security partners in the region.

This contentious asset proposal has materialised at a highly volatile juncture, as the United States and Iran actively trade military strikes despite a nominal ceasefire being in place.

The immediate catalyst for the heightened friction was a pre-dawn operation on Saturday, when US forces launched targeted strikes against Iranian coastal radar installations located in Goruk and on Qeshm Island within the critical Strait of Hormuz.

US Central Command stated that the military action was initiated after intercepting Iranian drones that posed an immediate threat to commercial shipping lanes in the strategic waterway.

In direct retaliation for the radar strikes, Iran fired a barrage of missiles aimed at US military facilities situated in Kuwait and Bahrain. According to Kuwaiti authorities, seven ballistic missiles traversed populated areas, resulting in structural damage but causing no casualties, while Bahrain activated its public warning sirens and instructed citizens to take immediate shelter.

An official statement from Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed that its strikes successfully targeted American military installations in both Gulf nations, though the US military countered that six of the incoming missiles were intercepted by air defences, while another failed to reach its intended target.

These rapid military exchanges have severely complicated the broader diplomatic tracks, which are already stalled due to Tehran's sweeping demands.

Beyond insisting on the release of USD 24 billion in frozen revenues, an adviser to Iran's supreme leader indicated that securing these funds remains a non-negotiable component of any future peace framework, even as Tehran continues to seek leverage over shipping corridors through the Strait of Hormuz and relief from sanctions affecting its oil exports.

Amid these gridlocked negotiations, Pakistan has attempted to intercede, with Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi travelling to Tehran on Saturday to deliver a special message from Islamabad's leadership to Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei.

However, the prospects for a diplomatic breakthrough are further dimmed as the conflict expands across multiple regional fronts, particularly in Lebanon.

An Israeli strike recently hit a military vehicle in the southern region of the country, killing three members of the Lebanese armed forces, including two officers, according to an official statement from the Lebanese army.

This Lebanese front has become deeply intertwined with the wider US-Iran friction, as Tehran has explicitly conditioned any diplomatic progress with Washington on a comprehensive ceasefire involving Israel and Hezbollah, while Israel has signalled its intention to sustain active military operations and preserve its strategic troop deployments.

The security situation has drawn further scrutiny following a separate development in which Lebanese Army Commander General Rudolf Haykal travelled to Pakistan following an invitation from the Pakistani military leadership.

Ultimately, the persistent combat operations spanning from the waters of the Gulf to the borders of Lebanon continue to present severe obstacles for international negotiators attempting to transition the highly volatile ceasefire into a permanent and verifiable peace agreement.

Trump Faces Blow as Republicans Break Ranks to Back Iran War Halt

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Thu, 4 Jun 2026 11:05:05 +0530

Trump Faces Blow as Republicans Break Ranks to Back Iran War Halt

Trump Faces Blow as Republicans Break Ranks to Back Iran War Halt

Reuters

Washington : The Republican-led US House of Representatives approved a resolution on Wednesday to block President Donald Trump from continuing the war against Iran, reflecting growing concern among members of his party about the three-month-old conflict.

The House voted 215 to 208, as four Republicans voted with Democrats in favour of the war powers resolution, which directs Trump to withdraw US troops from Iran unless Congress declares war or authorises the use of military force.

It was the latest setback for Trump in Congress despite his party's slim majorities in both the House and Senate.

For now, the vote is largely symbolic, as legislation must pass the Senate as well as the House to become effective, and there is debate over whether war powers resolutions would be constitutional even if they are approved by Congress.

The vote, nonetheless, reflects unease among some Republicans over Trump’s handling of the conflict and marks a rare bipartisan effort to curb presidential war powers as the war has entered a fourth month.

Three previous war powers resolutions had failed in the House by increasingly slim margins and the chamber's Republican leaders abruptly postponed a vote on this one last month when it looked likely to pass.

The Senate advanced a separate, but similar resolution last month in a procedural vote, after seven previous attempts had failed. Further votes on the Senate measure have not yet been scheduled.

The four House Republicans who voted for the war powers resolution were Representatives Tom Barrett of Michigan, Warren Davidson of Ohio, Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania and Thomas Massie of Kentucky.

No Democrats voted against it. Seven House members did not vote.

Recent pushback against Trump

Trump recently has faced some opposition from members of his party in Congress, after months in which very few Republicans pushed back against his policy initiatives.

Separately on Wednesday, the House approved a procedural motion that clears the way for a vote on the Ukraine Support Act, which would provide security aid to Ukraine as it fights a Russian invasion. The act reached the floor only after a petition reached a 218-signature threshold last month to move ahead.

Six Republicans and one independent who normally votes with Republicans voted in favor of the Ukraine measure.

Republicans recently have revolted against Trump's plans to create a “weaponisation” fund to pay his political allies who said they had been the subject of government abuse.

Republican lawmakers on Wednesday also criticised Trump's pick of loyalist Bill Pulte - a mortgage regulator with no national security experience - to serve as acting director of national intelligence.

Separation of powers

Democrats have called on Trump to come to Congress for authorisation to use military force in the Iran conflict, noting that the US Constitution says only the legislature, not the President, can declare war.

They warned that Trump may have pulled the country into a long conflict without setting out a clear strategy and also railed against higher prices for gasoline, food and other products since the joint U.S.-Israeli air strikes on Iran began on February 28.

“The passage of this WPR today signals a significant turning point: more and more Republicans are listening to their constituents who do not want another open-ended war in the Middle East,” Representative Gregory Meeks, who sponsored the war powers resolution and serves as ranking member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, said in a statement after the vote.

Democrats have made affordability a central theme of their economic message ahead of midterm elections in November that will decide whether Republicans keep control of Congress.

US producer prices posted their biggest increase in four years in April, boosted by soaring costs for goods and services since the war began.

The Trump administration insists that the war on Iran is necessary for US national security, citing an urgent need to prevent the Islamic republic from developing a nuclear weapon.

Republican critics of the war powers resolutions call them political grandstanding by Democrats who want to weaken the United States and score points against Trump.

Delhi Scraps B&B Policy After Fatal Hotel Blaze, Says Kapil Mishra

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Thu, 4 Jun 2026 10:34:42 +0530

Delhi Scraps B&B Policy After Fatal Hotel Blaze, Says Kapil Mishra

Delhi Scraps B&B Policy After Fatal Hotel Blaze, Says Kapil Mishra

PTI

New DELHI : In the wake of the devastating fire at a hotel in south Delhi's Malviya Nagar area that claimed 21 lives on Wednesday, the Delhi government has decided to officially withdraw its Bed and Breakfast policy and review all establishments operating under the scheme, Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra said.

The announcement comes after a massive fire ripped through the Flourish Stay B&B on Wednesday morning, leaving 21 people dead, including 11 foreign nationals, and several injured.

"We are going to officially withdraw the Bed and Breakfast scheme, and all establishments licensed under it will be checked," Mishra told PTI.

"Action would be taken against operators found violating the terms of the licence. If any establishment registered under the scheme is found running more than six rooms, its licence will be cancelled," the minister said.

According to Mishra, Flourish Stay was granted a licence under the B&B scheme in 2024 in the Silver category for six rooms, with validity until 2027.

However, investigators said the hotel was allegedly operating nearly four times beyond its permitted strength and did not possess the mandatory fire safety clearance.

It was allegedly running around 25 rooms, including some in the basement, police sources said.

Explaining the role of the tourism department, Mishra said its responsibility is largely limited to granting and renewing licences and verifying compliance during inspections.

"The owners are required to submit guest records to the local police station every 15 days. The tourism department does not have a role in the day-to-day functioning of these establishments," he said.

The decision to withdraw the policy comes despite the tourism department recently proposing a revamp of the scheme.

Last month, the department released a draft policy proposing several changes to the existing framework. It introduced two categories Gold and Silver with classification based on factors such as room size, furnishings, sanitation standards, guest amenities and safety arrangements, a senior official said.

As of 2023, more than 2,200 rooms across 432 properties in the national capital had been registered under Delhi government's B&B scheme.

Urban planning expert Jagdish Mamgain said the city has witnessed a series of fatal incidents in recent months, raising concerns about enforcement and regulatory oversight.

"In the last one to one-and-a-half years, Delhi has witnessed several deaths due to fire incidents and building collapses. The latest fire tragedy and the building collapse in Saidulajab point to a larger systemic issue that needs attention," he said.

Mamgain, a former chairman of the works committee of the erstwhile unified Municipal Corporation of Delhi, said the frequent incidents suggest gaps in monitoring and enforcement.

"There appears to be a flaw in the system that is directly affecting public safety. The discussion should not be limited to whether the establishment had permission for six rooms or more," he said.

The more important question is how it continued to operate with a valid licence when commercial activities were allegedly being carried out from the basement, which is a violation of norms, he added.

The blaze tore through the hotel allegedly operating without a fire NOC in a congested bylane in Malviya Nagar, killing at least 21 people, including 10 Indians, nine African nationals, and two from Turkmenistan, officials said.

The fire started around 8.30 am and quickly spread through the five-floor narrow building that had only one entry-exit point, permanently sealed windows and a sensor-operated main door, they said.

At least 58 people were rescued and rushed to hospitals where 21 were declared dead, they said.

Fresh Escalation in West Asia: Kuwait Counters Missile and Drone Attacks

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Mon, 1 Jun 2026 12:08:05 +0530

Fresh Escalation in West Asia: Kuwait Counters Missile and Drone Attacks

Fresh Escalation in West Asia: Kuwait Counters Missile and Drone Attacks

ANI

Kuwait City : Tension sparked once again in West Asia even as the US and Iran continue to hedge their bets on a possible peace deal. Kuwait's Army on Monday announced that its air defences were confronting hostile missile and drone attacks, and advised people to adhere to security and safety instructions.

In a post on X the Army said, "The Kuwaiti air defenses are currently confronting hostile missile and drone attacks."

It informed that if explosion sounds are heard, they result from the air defence systems intercepting the hostile attacks."Everyone is requested to adhere to the security and safety instructions issued by the competent authorities", the post concluded.

تتصدى حالياً الدفاعات الجوية الكويتية لهجمات صاروخية وطائرات مسيرة معادية.

تنوه رئاسة الأركان العامة للجيش أن أصوات الانفجارات إن سمعت فهي نتيجة اعتراض منظومات الدفاع الجوي للهجمات المعادية.

يرجى من الجميع التقيد بتعليمات الأمن والسلامة الصادرة عن الجهات المختصة.… pic.twitter.com/TkNLV2Yj4E

— KUWAIT ARMY - الجيش الكويتي (@KuwaitArmyGHQ) June 1, 2026

Earlier on May 28 also the Kuwaiti air defence was engaged in confronting hostile missile and drone attacks.

As the security situation continues to evolve in West Asia and the Gulf region, Kuwait's News Agency (KUNA) reported that the country's Foreign Minister Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah held a phone call with the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. During which the developments of current events in the region and ways to enhance regional and international security and stability were discussed.

Meanwhile, Iran has restored access to a significant portion of its underground missile infrastructure following months of excavation and repair work, highlighting the "limits to US bombing strategy", which was focused on sealing tunnel entrances, according to a news report by CNN.

As developments follow, US President Donald Trump has requested further amendments to a proposed agreement with Iran aimed at prolonging a ceasefire, CBS News reported.

According to reports, the newest draft incorporates a 60-day cessation of hostilities, measures to unlock the Strait of Hormuz, and a framework to resume negotiations on Iran's nuclear programme. However, an official agreement has not yet been declared.

A high-level White House session held on Friday to reach a "final determination" concluded without any definitive resolution.

Trump signalled that blocking Iran from engineering nuclear armaments continues to be a core element of the potential pact.

"The one guarantee that I have to have is that there will be no nuclear weapons," he asserted during a broadcast interview on Fox News.

The US President further mentioned that he was in "no hurry" to finalise a pact. According to Axios, as cited by CBS News, Trump demanded multiple revisions during the Friday session and has subsequently pushed for additional modifications.

Validating this stance, a White House official stated: "President Trump will only make a deal that is good for America and satisfies his red lines."

As per the CBS News report, the current proposal encompasses the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and tackling the issue of Iran's reserve of highly enriched uranium.

US–Iran Tensions Spike as Trump Rejects Hormuz Deal, Strikes Resume

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Fri, 29 May 2026 11:38:36 +0530

US–Iran Tensions Spike as Trump Rejects Hormuz Deal, Strikes Resume

US–Iran Tensions Spike as Trump Rejects Hormuz Deal, Strikes Resume

Washington : Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated sharply after former US President Donald Trump rejected reports of a potential agreement over the Strait of Hormuz, triggering a fresh wave of military strikes between the two long-time adversaries.

According to multiple reports, both nations carried out retaliatory attacks in and around strategic areas linked to the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil shipping route. The escalation comes at a time when diplomatic efforts had hinted at a possible breakthrough aimed at reducing hostilities in the region.

Sources suggested that a deal under discussion involved easing tensions and ensuring the safe passage of oil tankers through the strait. However, Trump publicly dismissed these reports, calling them “inaccurate” and stating that no such agreement was in place. His remarks appeared to undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts and were quickly followed by renewed military action.

Within hours of the statement, explosions were reported near key maritime zones, with both sides accusing each other of initiating the attacks. Iranian officials claimed that US forces targeted defensive installations, while Washington alleged that Iranian-backed units were responsible for strikes on allied assets.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most strategically important chokepoints in the world, with nearly a fifth of global oil supply passing through it. Any disruption in this region has immediate repercussions for global energy markets, often leading to spikes in oil prices and heightened economic uncertainty.

International observers have expressed concern over the rapid deterioration of the situation. Analysts warn that the collapse of even preliminary discussions could push both countries closer to a wider conflict, especially given the fragile state of previous ceasefire understandings.

Meanwhile, global leaders have urged restraint, calling for both sides to return to diplomatic channels. The United Nations has reiterated the importance of maintaining peace in the Gulf region, emphasizing that continued escalation could have far-reaching consequences beyond the Middle East.

Military experts note that the current exchange of strikes appears calibrated rather than full-scale, suggesting that both sides may still be attempting to avoid an all-out war. However, the risk of miscalculation remains high, particularly in such a volatile and heavily militarized zone.

For now, the situation remains fluid, with no immediate signs of de-escalation. Markets, governments, and security agencies worldwide are closely monitoring developments, as the possibility of further conflict looms large.

The latest confrontation highlights how quickly geopolitical tensions can spiral, especially when diplomacy falters. As both nations continue to trade accusations and military actions, the future of stability in the region hangs in the balance.

Tensions Explode: US Bombs Iran Targets Despite Ceasefire

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Tue, 26 May 2026 14:48:54 +0530

Tensions Explode: US Bombs Iran Targets Despite Ceasefire

Tensions Explode: US Bombs Iran Targets Despite Ceasefire

Washington : The US military said Monday that it carried out "self-defence" strikes in southern Iran, including on missile launch sites and boats placing mines, even as President Donald Trump said on social media that negotiations with Tehran were "proceeding nicely."

The strikes were done "to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces," but the military was "using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire," Capt Tim Hawkins, the spokesman for the US military's Central Command, said in a statement.

Further details were not immediately available, including more specifics on the threats from Iran and what this means for negotiations. There was no official response from Iran, which had sent its parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf to Qatar for negotiations over the possible deal with the US.

Qatar, which faced intense attacks from Iran during the war, holds billions of dollars in frozen Iranian funds.

In Iran, the news website Tabnak, believed to be close to former Revolutionary Guard chief Mohsen Rezaei, identified four dead Guard troops it said had been killed in American strikes on boats. Iranian state television separately reported blasts around Bandar Abbas, a city on the Strait of Hormuz home to a military port and a dual-use airport.

The strikes were the latest attacks to shake the weekslong ceasefire in the war. The Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of all crude oil and natural gas traded once passed, remains effectively in Iran's chokehold, disrupting global energy markets.

Trump brings up recognition of Israel

Earlier, Trump said any agreement to end the Iran war should include a requirement for several additional countries, including Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, to join the Abraham Accords, the US-brokered agreements from Trump's first term aimed at normalizing relations with Israel.

The proposal came as the emerging Iran deal faced criticism from fellow Republicans who favour a harder line on Iran, and it could add new diplomatic complications to the negotiations.

Trump pointed to Saudi Arabia and Qatar as countries that should "immediately" sign on. Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates became the first countries to join in 2020, diplomatically recognizing Israel.

He wrote that "after all the work done by the United States to try and pull this very complex puzzle together, it should be mandatory that all of these Countries, at a minimum, simultaneously, sign onto the Abraham Accords."

Trump has long hoped Saudi Arabia would join. Saudi Arabia in particular has for decades called on Israel to return to its 1967 borders and allow the formation of a Palestinian nation with east Jerusalem as its capital. Israel's conduct in the war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip also has alienated Gulf Arab states and the wider Muslim world as well.

Pakistan remains key mediator

Recognition of a Palestinian state also remains key for Pakistan, which is among the countries that do not have diplomatic relations with Israel.

Islamabad-based analyst Syed Mohammad Ali said Pakistan's position on Israel remains unchanged despite Trump's latest proposal.

The President said he brought up the Abraham Accords plan with leaders during negotiations on Saturday. He said he would accept "one or two" countries declining to sign, but said most should be willing. Egypt and Jordan already formally recognise Israel and have long-standing peace treaties. Turkey first recognised Israel in 1949.

Masood Khan, Pakistan's former ambassador to the United States, said it remains to be seen how workable the proposal might be for the countries on Trump's list.

"The invocation of the Abraham Accords at this stage gives an altogether new dimension to the diplomatic and mediatory processes because this issue was not on the agenda," he said, pointing to the domestic pressure Trump is facing to strike a favourable deal.

Still, Khan said, "the diplomatic track is still working, and I believe Pakistan is very much at the centre of it, supported by regional countries."

It remains unclear when or how any deal with Iran might be completed. Trump suggested even Iran could eventually sign on to the accords, if an agreement is reached.

The accords are a series of diplomatic, economic and security agreements created with US influence during Trump's first term, which also saw Sudan, Morocco, and, more recently, Kazakhstan, join.

Punjab Polls Turn Turbulent: 32% Voting, Congress Candidate Attacked in Raikot

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Tue, 26 May 2026 14:05:48 +0530

Punjab Polls Turn Turbulent: 32% Voting, Congress Candidate Attacked in Raikot

Punjab Polls Turn Turbulent: 32% Voting, Congress Candidate Attacked in Raikot

Ludhiana : Voting for local civic body elections across Punjab witnessed steady participation on polling day, with approximately 32% voter turnout recorded till 12 noon, according to preliminary data released by election authorities. The polling process, which began early in the morning, has largely remained peaceful across most districts, though isolated incidents of violence have raised concerns.

One of the most serious incidents was reported from Raikot, where a candidate belonging to the Indian National Congress was allegedly attacked during polling hours. The candidate sustained injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Local authorities have confirmed that the situation is now under control, and an investigation into the attack has been initiated.

Officials stated that security arrangements had been tightened in sensitive areas, with additional police forces deployed to prevent disruptions. Despite these measures, sporadic clashes between rival party supporters were reported in a few locations. Election observers are closely monitoring developments to ensure that polling remains free and fair.

Voter turnout in urban areas appeared moderate, while rural regions showed comparatively higher participation during the morning hours. Election officials expressed optimism that the overall turnout would increase significantly as the day progresses, with many voters expected to cast their ballots in the afternoon.

The civic body elections are considered crucial, as they will determine the composition of local governance bodies responsible for municipal administration and development. Political parties have been actively campaigning over the past weeks, focusing on issues such as infrastructure, sanitation, water supply, and local employment.

Leaders from major political parties have urged voters to come out in large numbers and exercise their democratic rights. At the same time, they have condemned the incident in Raikot and called for strict action against those responsible.

Meanwhile, the State Election Commission reiterated its commitment to conducting peaceful elections and warned that any attempt to disrupt the democratic process would be dealt with firmly. Polling is scheduled to continue until the evening, after which the counting of votes will take place as per the official schedule.

As the day unfolds, all eyes remain on voter turnout trends and the overall conduct of the elections, especially in areas marked as sensitive. Authorities continue to appeal for calm and cooperation from the public to ensure a smooth and incident-free electoral process.

Powerful Blast Destroys Railway Track in Balochistan, 20 Injured

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Sun, 24 May 2026 14:13:55 +0530

Powerful Blast Destroys Railway Track in Balochistan, 20 Injured

Powerful Blast Destroys Railway Track in Balochistan, 20 Injured

PTI

Karachi : A powerful explosion ripped through a railway track in Pakistan’s Balochistan province on Sunday, injuring at least 20 people, authorities said.

A train suffered partial damage in the blast, while 10 vehicles parked in the area were also damaged, police said. The impact of the explosion shattered the windows and glass panels of nearby buildings, Geo News reported.

The explosion occurred near Chaman Phatak railway station in Quetta on Sunday.

At least 20 people sustained injuries in the blast, rescue officials said.

The explosion derailed three coaches, including the locomotive, while two coaches overturned, state-run APP reported.

Following the incident, an emergency was declared in government hospitals across Quetta, with doctors and medical staff summoned to handle the situation.

Railway authorities said the Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express was stopped at Quetta Railway Station after the blast as a precautionary measure, Geo News reported.

Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi condemned the attack as a cowardly act of terrorism, adding that it would not weaken the nation’s resolve against militancy.

He said hostile forces were involved in malicious activities aimed at spreading unrest and fear in Pakistan.

Slamming terrorists as “enemies of humanity”, the minister asserted they would be “brought to a disgraceful end”.

Babar Yousafzai, the spokesperson to the home minister, said that all relevant institutions have been placed on high alert following an explosion in the city.

He urged the public not to gather near the blast site to ensure safety and allow emergency teams to carry out rescue operations without obstruction.

US Suffers Heavy Blow: 42 Aircraft, Including Jets & Reaper Drones Lost in Iran War

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Wed, 20 May 2026 11:40:49 +0530

US Suffers Heavy Blow: 42 Aircraft, Including Jets & Reaper Drones Lost in Iran War

US Suffers Heavy Blow: 42 Aircraft, Including Jets & Reaper Drones Lost in Iran War

PTI

Washington : At least 42 US aircraft, including fighter jets and drones, were lost or damaged during Operation Epic Fury launched on February 28 targeting Iran, according to an official report.

The number of aircraft damaged or destroyed may remain subject to revision due to multiple factors, including classification, ongoing combat activity, and attribution, said the report by the Congressional Research Service (CRS).

The aircraft losses and damages include four F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets, one F-35A Lightning II fighter aircraft, one A-10 Thunderbolt II ground-attack aircraft, seven KC-135 Stratotanker aerial refuelling aircraft, one E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft, two MC-130J Commando II special operations aircraft, one HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopter, 24 MQ-9 Reaper drones and one MQ-4C Triton drone.

The CRS, which provides policy and legal analysis to the US Congress and committees, compiled the losses by perusing news reports and statements by the Department of Defence and the US Central Command.

During a hearing of the House Appropriations subcommittee on May 12, Acting Pentagon Comptroller Jules W Hurst III testified that the department's cost estimate for military operations in Iran has increased to USD 29 billion.

"A lot of that increase comes from having a refined estimate on repair or replacement costs for equipment," he said.

At Least 10 Dead as Severe Rainstorm Batters Southern and Central China

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Tue, 19 May 2026 14:29:04 +0530

At Least 10 Dead as Severe Rainstorm Batters Southern and Central China

At Least 10 Dead as Severe Rainstorm Batters Southern and Central China

Reuters

Hong Kong : At least 10 people have lost their lives after relentless heavy rains battered large parts of southern and central China, triggering severe flooding, landslides, and widespread disruption. Authorities have launched emergency rescue operations as the extreme weather continues to affect millions across multiple provinces.

According to local officials, days of torrential rainfall caused rivers to overflow and inundated low-lying areas, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate their homes. Streets in several المدن were submerged under water, while transportation networks—including roads and railways—faced major disruptions. Emergency services have been working around the clock to rescue stranded residents and provide relief to those affected.

The worst-hit regions include parts of southern China, where intense downpours led to flash floods and landslides. In central provinces, swelling rivers breached warning levels, increasing the risk of further flooding. Authorities have warned that the situation could worsen if rains continue in the coming days.

Rescue teams, including firefighters and military personnel, have been deployed to the affected areas. Boats and heavy machinery are being used to reach isolated communities cut off by rising water levels. Temporary shelters have been set up for displaced families, providing food, water, and medical assistance.

China’s meteorological department has issued alerts for continued heavy rainfall, urging residents in vulnerable areas to remain cautious. Schools and offices in some regions have been closed as a precautionary measure. Local governments have also strengthened monitoring of dams and reservoirs to prevent potential breaches.

The heavy rains have also caused significant damage to infrastructure and agriculture. Farmlands have been submerged, raising concerns about crop losses and economic impact. Power outages have been reported in several المناطق, adding to the challenges faced by rescue teams and residents.

Experts say that extreme weather events like these are becoming more frequent and intense, highlighting the growing impact of climate change. In recent years, China has experienced a series of devastating floods during the monsoon season, prompting authorities to invest heavily in disaster management and flood control systems.

Despite these efforts, the scale of the current disaster has overwhelmed local resources in some areas. Volunteers and humanitarian organizations have joined rescue efforts, providing support to affected communities.

As the situation continues to evolve, authorities are urging people to stay informed through official channels and avoid traveling to high-risk areas. The focus remains on saving lives, providing relief to survivors, and preventing further casualties as China battles yet another extreme weather crisis.

Further updates are expected as rescue operations continue and the full extent of the damage becomes clearer.

Stray Dogs Must Be Removed from Streets: Supreme Court Takes Tough Stand on Bite Cases

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Tue, 19 May 2026 14:07:00 +0530

Stray Dogs Must Be Removed from Streets: Supreme Court Takes Tough Stand on Bite Cases

Stray Dogs Must Be Removed from Streets: Supreme Court Takes Tough Stand on Bite Cases

PTI

New Delhi : The right to live with dignity encompasses the right to move freely without the threat of harm from dog bite attacks, the Supreme Court said on Tuesday while dismissing pleas seeking a recall of its earlier order on the relocation and sterilisation of stray canines.

"The court cannot remain oblivious to harsh ground realities where children, international travellers and old age people have fallen victim to dog bite incidents," a bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and N V Anjaria said in response to the petitions by animal rights activists and others.

The court also issued a slew of directions to states, union territories and other statutory bodies to augment infrastructure to deal with stray dogs.

On November 7 last year, the court took note of the "alarming rise" in dog-bite incidents in areas such as educational institutions, hospitals and railway stations and directed that stray dogs be relocated to designated shelters after sterilisation and vaccination. Stray dogs picked up shall not be released back to their original place, the court said.

On Tuesday, the apex court rejected petitions challenging the validity of SOPs on dealing with stray animals issued by the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). It observed that there has been a "discernible absence" of sustained efforts on the part of states and UTs to build infrastructure to deal with the rising population of stray dogs.

Implementation of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) framework, it said, remains largely sporadic, underfunded and uneven across jurisdictions. The framework includes sterilisation, vaccination, sheltering, and overall scientific management of state arms. Prolonged inaction coupled with the absence of institutional commitment to the effective implementation of the ABC framework has led to aggravation of the problem, which has now assumed dimensions "warranting urgent and systemic intervention", the apex court said.

"The right to live with dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution of India necessarily encompasses the right of every citizen to move freely and access public spaces without living under a constant apprehension of physical harm, attack, or exposure to life-threatening events, such as dog bites in public areas," the court ruled. "The state cannot remain a passive spectator where preventable threats to human life continue to proliferate in the face of statutory mechanisms specifically designed to address them," it added.

States and union territories, it stressed, are under continued constitutional obligation to ensure the protection of the fundamental right to life and safety of citizens under Article 21a.

"This obligation is not very passive in nature, but casts an affirmative duty upon the states and union territories to take all necessary and effective measures to prevent conditions that pose a threat to public safety, health, and well-being," the bench directed.

The failure to adopt a proactive, structured, and sustained approach to the problem has resulted in a "largely reactive and crisis-driven response necessitated by the escalation of the problem rather than its prevention", the court said.

Such an approach is neither efficient nor capable of yielding durable resolutions, particularly in a matter involving public health, human safety and ecological balance.

The bench said in its three-part order that after reserving judgment on January 29 in the present matter, it has been informed of multiple reports indicating that the incidence of dog bites and stray dog attacks continue to occur across the country with alarming frequency and severity.

It also referred to media reports on dog bite incidents in Rajasthan and other places and said they highlighted deeply disturbing incidents in which young children suffered previous injuries, including mauling of the faces and limbs by the street dogs.

"Such incidents not only endanger the safety and dignity of the citizens and visitors, but also adversely affect public confidence in civic administration and in urban governance. The whole set of figures reveal staggering dimensions of the problemâ€¦ the harm caused by such incidents is not mainly statistical in nature but has great human societal and public health consequencesâ€¦," the bench said.

Continued non-compliance and non-implementation of the directions issued by the apex court and thereafter by the jurisdictional high court, "shall be viewed seriously".

In November last year, the court directed authorities to ensure the removal of all cattle and other stray animals from the state highways, national highways and expressways.

The top court is hearing a suo motu case, initiated on July 28 last year, over a media report on stray dog bites leading to rabies, particularly among children, in the national capital.

Mid-Air Collision at US Air Show; Fighter Jet Crews Eject Safely

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Mon, 18 May 2026 13:51:02 +0530

Mid-Air Collision at US Air Show; Fighter Jet Crews Eject Safely

Mid-Air Collision at US Air Show; Fighter Jet Crews Eject Safely

Boise : All four crew members ejected safely after two Navy jets collided and crashed Sunday during an air show at the Mountain Home Air Force Base in western Idaho, officials said.

The collision involved two US Navy EA18-G Growlers from the Electronic Attack Squadron 129 in Whidbey Island, Washington, said Cmdr Amelia Umayam, spokesperson for Naval Air Forces, US Pacific Fleet.

The aircraft were performing an aerial demonstration when the crash occurred, Umayam said in a statement. The four crew members from both jets safely ejected, and the crash was under investigation, she said.

The crew members were in stable condition, base officials said.

Nobody at the military base was hurt, said Kim Sykes, marketing director with Silver Wings of Idaho, which helped to plan the air show.

“Everyone is safe, and I think that’s the most important thing,” Sykes said.

Planes fell to the ground together

The base said in a social media post that it was locked down immediately following the crash. The remainder of the air show was cancelled.

Videos posted online by spectators showed four parachutes opening in the sky as the aircraft plummeted to the ground near the base about 50 miles (80 kilometres) south of Boise.

The EA-18G Growler is a variant of the F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet with sophisticated electronic warfare systems.

Shane Ogden said he was filming the two jets as they came close together. A video he captured shows the two aircraft appear to make contact and then spin in tandem as the crew members eject and their parachutes open. The planes then fall together, exploding into a fireball upon impact as the crew members drift to the ground nearby.

“I was just filming thinking they were going to split apart, and that happened, and I filmed the rest,” Ogden said in a text message. He said he left soon after the crash because he did not want to get in the way of emergency responders.

Organisers said the popular air show that includes flying demonstrations and parachute jumps is a celebration of aviation history and a look at modern military capabilities. The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds demonstration squadron headlined the show both days.

The National Weather Service reported good visibility and winds gusting up to 29 mph (47 kph) around the time of the crash.

Little room for error

It was remarkable that both crews were able to eject from their planes, and aviation safety expert Jeff Guzzetti said that may have been possible because of the way the planes collided and appeared to remain stuck together in midair before falling to Earth. Crews usually don’t have a chance to eject in a midair collision, he said.

“It’s really striking to see,” Guzzetti said. “It looks like they struck each other in a very unique fashion to cause them to remain intact and kind of stick to each other, and that very well could have saved them.”

“It appears to be a pilot issue to me. It doesn’t look like it was a mechanical malfunction,” he added. “Rendezvousing with another aeroplane in formation flight is challenging, and it has to be done just right to prevent exactly this kind of thing.”

Aviation safety expert John Cox, who is CEO of Safety Operating Systems, said the pilots who perform at air shows are among the best, but there is little room for error.

“Air show flying is demanding. It has very little tolerance,” Cox said. “The people who do it are very good, and it’s a small margin for error. I’m glad everybody was able to get out.”

This year’s Gunfighter Skies event was the first at the base since 2018, when a hang glider pilot died in a crash during an air show performance.

In 2003, a Thunderbirds aircraft crashed while attempting a manoeuvre. The pilot, who was not hurt, was able to steer the plane away from the crowd and eject less than a second before it hit the ground.

The air show industry has been working to improve safety for years at the roughly 200 events held each year in the US. The last fatal crash at an air show came in 2022 when two vintage military planes collided at an event in Dallas and killed six people.

An average of 3.8 deaths a year occurred at US air shows from 1991 to 2006, said John Cudahy, president and CEO of the International Council of Air Shows. That fatality rate has been improving, and since 2017, there have been an average of 1.1 deaths per year, even including the 2022 crash. There were no US air show deaths in 2023 or 2025, and a spectator hasn’t been killed at an air show in the US since 1952.

“Safety-wise, we’ve enjoyed really an unprecedented term of few accidents,” Cudahy said.

Investigators may be able to quickly get an idea of what happened in Sunday’s crash because the crews of both planes survived and will be able to tell investigators what they saw and experienced before the collision. The Navy will lead the investigation, so there won’t be as much information shared publicly as in civilian crashes.

The Iran war has led to the cancellation of some air shows this year at bases where military units are flying missions related to the conflict.

Gujarat Accident: Four Killed, 10 Hurt as Bus Goes Up in Flames Post Collision

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Thu, 14 May 2026 11:27:39 +0530

Gujarat Accident: Four Killed, 10 Hurt as Bus Goes Up in Flames Post Collision

Gujarat Accident: Four Killed, 10 Hurt as Bus Goes Up in Flames Post Collision

PTI

Surendranagar : Four passengers were charred to death and 10 others suffered burn injuries when a bus caught fire after crashing into a tanker in Gujarat’s Surendranagar district in the wee hours of Thursday, officials said.

The incident occurred at around 1.30 am near Sangani village on the Chotila-Rajkot National Highway, Deputy Superintendent of Police SS Bhadoriya said.

The private luxury bus was going towards Rajkot from Ahmedabad when it collided with an asphalt-laden tanker moving ahead of it. After the collision near Chotila, the bus caught fire.

There were around 40 passengers in the bus, and several of them were rescued, Bhadoriya said.

were burnt alive in the collision between the private bus and the tanker filled with asphalt,” Deputy Collector HT Makwana said.

Ten persons suffered injuries in the incident, according to the police.

The injured persons were referred to Rajkot civil hospital, and the bodies were shifted to Chotila referral hospital for postmortem, Makwana said.

After being alerted, a firefighting team rushed to the spot and brought the blaze under control.

Global Focus on Trump-Xi LIVE: Trade Disputes and Tech Race Intensify

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Thu, 14 May 2026 11:02:37 +0530

Global Focus on Trump-Xi LIVE: Trade Disputes and Tech Race Intensify

Global Focus on Trump-Xi LIVE: Trade Disputes and Tech Race Intensify

Reuters

Beijing : US President Donald Trump called China's Xi Jinping a great leader and a friend as they kicked off two days of talks on Thursday set to cover their fragile trade truce, the Iran war and US arms sales to Taiwan.

With his approval ratings dented by his entanglement in the Middle East, Trump's hotly anticipated trip to China - the first by a US president to America's main strategic rival since his last visit there in 2017 - has taken on added significance.

Joining him on the trip are a group of CEOs looking to resolve issues with China, including Elon Musk and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, a late addition. Trump has said his first request to Xi will be to "open up" China to US industry.

=The pomp-filled summit began at Beijing's imposing Great Hall of the People where Xi greeted Trump on the red carpet, with the leaders shaking hands and smiling warmly.

Chinese troops goose-stepped to revolutionary anthems in front of the visiting US President, while schoolchildren waving American and Chinese flags cheered as the two leaders strolled past, Trump occasionally patting Xi on the back.

“You're a great leader, sometimes people don’t like me saying it, but I say it anyway,” Trump told Xi as they sat across from each other, flanked by their delegations.

“There are those who say this may be the biggest summit ever ... It's an honour to be with you. It's an honour to be your friend and the relationship between China and the USA is going to be better than ever before,” Trump said.

Xi told Trump: “Each country's success represents an opportunity for the other, and a stable China-US relationship benefits the entire world. When we cooperate, both sides benefit; when we confront each other, both sides suffer.”

Power dynamics have shifted

The power dynamic has shifted since Trump's last visit to Beijing when China went out of its way to lavish Trump and buy billions in US goods, said Ali Wyne, senior adviser for US-China relations at International Crisis Group.

Back then “China was trying to persuade the United States of its growing status... This time around it's the United States, unprompted, of its own volition, that is acknowledging that status,” Wyne said, pointing out Trump revived the term 'G2', referring to a superpower duo, when he last met Xi on the sidelines of an APEC meeting in South Korea in October.

This week's meetings will provide plenty of face time between the leaders: they are scheduled to hold talks at The Great Hall of the People, tour the UNESCO heritage site Temple of Heaven and attend a state banquet on Thursday, before taking tea and lunch together on Friday, according to the White House.

Trump enters the talks with a weakened hand.

US courts have hemmed in his ability to levy tariffs at will on exports from China and other countries. The Iran war has also boosted inflation at home and escalated the risk that Trump's Republican Party will lose control of one or both legislative branches in November's midterm elections.

Though the Chinese economy has faltered, Xi does not face comparable economic or political pressure.

Nevertheless, both sides are eager to maintain a trade truce struck last October in which Trump suspended triple-digit tariffs on Chinese goods and Xi backed away from choking global supplies of rare earths, vital in making items from electric cars to weapons. They are also expected to discuss forums to support mutual trade and investment and dialogue on AI issues.

Washington looks to sell Boeing airplanes, farm goods and energy to China to cut a trade deficit that has long irked Trump, while Beijing wants the US to ease curbs on exports of chipmaking equipment and advanced semiconductors, officials involved in the planning said.

Aside from trade matters, Trump is expected to encourage China to convince Tehran to make a deal with Washington to end the conflict. But analysts doubt that Xi will be willing to push Tehran hard or end support for its military, given Iran's value to Beijing as a strategic counterweight to the US.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Fox News aboard Air Force One that it was in China's interest to help resolve the crisis as many of its ships are stuck in the Gulf and a slowdown in the global economy would hurt Chinese exporters.

US arms sales to Taiwan in focus

For Xi, US arms sales to Taiwan, the democratically governed island claimed by China, will be a top priority.

China reiterated on Wednesday its strong opposition to the sales, with the status of a $14-billion package awaiting Trump's approval still unclear. The US is bound by law to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself, despite a lack of formal diplomatic ties.

“Trump doesn't really have that many of the cards to play. But I don't think that Trump actually sees the situation that way,” said Ronan Fu, an assistant research fellow at Taiwan's top government think tank Academia Sinica.

“I don't think that Trump is going to just let Beijing basically ask for whatever they want and then the US will make any concession that Beijing requests.”

Xi has a reciprocal visit tentatively planned for later this year, which would be his first visit to the United States since Trump re-took office in 2025.

Mid-Air Scare Ends Safely: Turkish Airlines Jet Catches Fire While Landing in Nepal

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Mon, 11 May 2026 11:37:00 +0530

Mid-Air Scare Ends Safely: Turkish Airlines Jet Catches Fire While Landing in Nepal

Mid-Air Scare Ends Safely: Turkish Airlines Jet Catches Fire While Landing in Nepal

PTI

Kathmandu : A Turkish Airlines jet caught fire while landing at Nepal’s main airport on Monday, causing no reported injuries but forcing the airport to shut down.

The flight from Istanbul landed at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport with fire and smoke on the right landing gear. Emergency crew responded and controlled the fire and passengers were safely evacuated, according to airport officials.

The airport was shut down on Monday morning.

There were 277 passengers on board the Airbus 330 jet.

Several planes bound for Kathmandu were put on hold while officials were investigating and attempting to clear the only runway available at the airport.

Nepal experiences relatively frequent plane crashes as its mountainous terrain and variable weather make flying conditions difficult.

In 2015, a Turkish Airlines jet landing in dense fog in Kathmandu skidded off a slippery runway shutting down the airport for several days.

No injuries were reported, and the plane was later towed out of the airport and converted into a museum.

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Announces 200 Units of Free Electricity for Domestic Users

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Sun, 10 May 2026 13:20:00 +0530

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Announces 200 Units of Free Electricity for Domestic Users

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Announces 200 Units of Free Electricity for Domestic Users

PTI

Chennai : TVK founder Vijay, immediately after taking over as the Chief Minister on Sunday, signed papers allowing 200 units of free electricity for domestic consumers, for setting up a special force for women's safety and also for anti-drug trafficking units across the state.

In his maiden address at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium here after taking over as the Chief Minister, Vijay said a new era of a regime committed to “real secularism and social justice” commenced now.

He asserted that there will not be any power centres other than him and emphasised that he will be the only centre of power.

He thanked the Congress, VCK, IUML and Left parties for extending support to his party to form the government.

He specially thanked the children and said it was due to them that the TVK won as they persuaded their families to vote for his party.

Russia Marks Muted WWII Victory Parade Amid Growing Ukraine War Concerns

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Sun, 10 May 2026 12:55:00 +0530

Russia Marks Muted WWII Victory Parade Amid Growing Ukraine War Concerns

Russia Marks Muted WWII Victory Parade Amid Growing Ukraine War Concerns

Reuters

Moscow : Russia holds its most scaled-back Victory Day parade in years on Saturday due to the threat of attack from Ukraine, where victory for Moscow's forces has proven elusive more than four years into the deadliest European conflict since World War Two.

The May 9 parade on Red Square marks Russia's most revered national holiday - a time to celebrate the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany and to pay homage to the 27 million Soviet citizens, including many from Ukraine, who perished.

Once used to show off Russia's vast military, including its nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles, the parade this year will have no tanks or other military equipment rolling over the cobbles of Red Square.

Trump wants 'big extension' to ceasefire

Soldiers will still march and cheer in the shadow of Vladimir Lenin's Mausoleum, fighter planes will fly above the towers of the Kremlin and President Vladimir Putin will make a speech before laying flowers at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

"In general, everything is as usual, except for the demonstration of military equipment," Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov told reporters.

After Russia and Ukraine accused each other of violating unilateral ceasefires they had each declared over recent days, US President Donald Trump announced a three-day ceasefire from Saturday to Monday that was supported by the Kremlin and Kyiv.

The two sides also agreed to exchange 1,000 prisoners.

"I'd like to see it stop. Russia-Ukraine - it's the worst thing since World War Two in terms of life. Twenty-five thousand young soldiers every month. It's crazy," Trump told reporters in Washington.

He added that he would "like to see a big extension" of the ceasefire.

Russia, which invaded Ukraine in 2022, had warned that any attempt by Kyiv to disrupt Saturday's event would lead to a massive missile strike on the Ukrainian capital. Moscow told foreign diplomats that they should evacuate Kyiv staff in the event of such an attack.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy issued a tongue-in-cheek decree "allowing" Russia's May 9 military parade to proceed and saying Ukrainian weapons would not target Red Square.

Security was tight in Moscow. Reuters pictures showed soldiers with guns atop pickup trucks and roads blocked around the centre of the capital, which along with the surrounding region has a population of 22 million.

War in Ukraine haunts Russia's parade

After Nazi Germany invaded the Soviet Union in 1941, the Red Army eventually pushed Nazi forces back to Berlin, where Adolf Hitler killed himself and the red Soviet Victory Banner was raised over the Reichstag in May 1945.

Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender came into force at 11:01 p.m. on May 8, 1945, marked as "Victory in Europe Day" by Britain, the United States and France. In Moscow it was already May 9, which became the Soviet Union's "Victory Day" in what Russians call the Great Patriotic War of 1941-45.

But this year's parade comes amid a wave of anxiousness in Moscow about the ultimate outcome of the conflict in Ukraine.

The war has killed hundreds of thousands of people, left swathes of Ukraine in ruins and drained Russia's $3 trillion economy, while Russia's relations with Europe are worse than at any time since the depths of the Cold War.

"The crisis is still deepening gradually, but any sharp movement can send the economy (and not only the economy) into a tailspin," jailed pro-war Russian nationalist Igor Girkin, who has criticised the Kremlin for its conduct of the war, said in a post on Telegram.

Girkin, a former Federal Security Service officer, used a naval analogy to say that Russia's leaders were more worried about being kicked out of their cabins than about a shipwreck.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed CNN and other Western media reports that Putin's protection had been intensified because of fears of a coup or assassination. Russian officials have dismissed reports of a coup plot as nonsense.

Just 21 years ago, Putin sat beside US President George W Bush at the Moscow parade, along with France's Jacques Chirac and Chinese President Hu Jintao.

This year, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Malaysia's King Sultan Ibrahim and Laos President Thongloun Sisoulith will attend.

ISI-Linked Cell Busted for Plotting Attacks on Delhi Temple, Dhaba, Army Camp

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Fri, 8 May 2026 11:58:00 +0530

ISI-linked module planned attacks on Delhi temple, dhaba, military camp: Probe

ISI-Linked Cell Busted for Plotting Attacks on Delhi Temple, Dhaba, Army Camp

PTI

New Delhi : Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI had allegedly planned attacks on a historic temple in Delhi, a popular dhaba on the Delhi-Sonepat highway and a military camp in Haryana through operatives linked to the Shahzad Bhatti module, sources said on Friday.

According to sources, the revelations emerged during the interrogation of nine alleged operatives of the module arrested by the Delhi Police Special Cell under their 'Gang Bust Operation 2.0' from multiple states.

Investigators found that one of the accused had conducted reconnaissance of a historic temple in Delhi and sent photographs of the premises to Pakistan-based handlers through social media platforms, the source said.

The module had allegedly planned to target police personnel and paramilitary forces deployed at the temple and carry out firing to create panic and disruption, he said.

The source also added that the accused were also tasked with carrying out a grenade attack on a popular 'dhaba' on the Delhi-Sonepat highway, frequented by thousands of people daily, with the intention of causing large-scale damage and casualties.

"A military camp in Hisar was also allegedly surveyed and videos of the area were shared with handlers across the border. Some police stations in Uttar Pradesh were also on the target list," the source added.

Donald Trump Signals Iran Peace Breakthrough as US Jet Strikes Iranian Oil Tanker

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Thu, 7 May 2026 10:52:00 +0530

Donald Trump Signals Iran Peace Breakthrough as US Jet Strikes Iranian Oil Tanker

Donald Trump Signals Iran Peace Breakthrough as US Jet Strikes Iranian Oil Tanker

Oman : An American fighter jet shot out the rudder of an Iranian oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman on Wednesday as it tried to breach the US blockade of Iran's ports, the American military said in a social media post.

The attack occurred as Iran and the US are officially in a ceasefire and as the two countries appear to be moving closer to an initial agreement to end the war.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump is trying to pressure Tehran with threats of a new wave of bombing if a deal is not reached.

American forces issued multiple warnings and informed the ship it was violating the blockade, US Central Command said in its post.

Global Tensions Rise: US, Gulf Allies Warn Iran to End Hormuz Chokehold or Face Sanctions

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Wed, 6 May 2026 13:55:00 +0530

Global Tensions Rise: US, Gulf Allies Warn Iran to End Hormuz Chokehold or Face Sanctions

Global Tensions Rise: US, Gulf Allies Warn Iran to End Hormuz Chokehold or Face Sanctions

Washington : The United States and its Gulf allies have proposed a UN resolution threatening Iran with sanctions or other measures if it doesn’t halt attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, stop imposing “illegal tolls,” and disclose the placement of all mines to allow freedom of navigation.

The draft Security Council resolution, obtained Tuesday by The Associated Press, also demands that Iran “immediately participate in and enable” United Nations efforts to establish a humanitarian corridor in the strait for the delivery of vital aid, fertilizer and other goods.

It is the latest diplomatic effort by the US and its Gulf allies after a watered-down resolution aimed at opening the strait was vetoed by China and Russia hours before Washington and Tehran announced a temporary ceasefire in early April.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a statement on Tuesday accused Iran of continuing “to hold the world’s economy hostage” by trying to close the strait, threatening to attack ships, laying sea mines, and attempting to charge tolls “for the world’s most important waterway.”

While Rubio said he looks forward to the resolution being voted on in the coming days, he told journalists later in the day that he remained uncertain if “slight adjustments” the US made to the text would be enough to avoid a veto from Tehran’s allies on the council.

These adjustments included removing language authorising the use of force and focusing instead on the threat of sanctions.

Whether the resolution succeeds will be “a real test” for the UN “as something that functions, that can solve global problems,” Rubio added at the White House briefing.

US Ambassador Mike Waltz told reporters Monday he believes the new, narrow proposal will gain the necessary support it needs to pass the 15-member council, without triggering opposition or a veto from Iran’s allies.

The US and Gulf nations proposed the new draft as the Trump administration tries to restore freedom of navigation in the strait, which carried about 20 per cent of the world’s crude oil before the US and Israel began the war on Feb 28. A shaky ceasefire remains in effect.

The proposed resolution, which was drafted under Chapter 7 of the UN Charter and thus could be enforced militarily, threatens “effective measures that are commensurate with the gravity of the situation, including sanctions” if Iran doesn’t comply. The earlier resolution removed a Chapter 7 reference but was still vetoed.

One Security Council diplomat told AP that as in previous negotiations on Hormuz resolutions, specific language directly condemning Iran, without also reflecting US and Israeli strikes, has been an issue with some members. The diplomat spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive deliberations.

Blast Outside BSF Headquarters in Jalandhar, IED Hidden in Dustbin Triggers Alert

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Wed, 6 May 2026 11:03:00 +0530

Blast Outside BSF Headquarters in Jalandhar, IED Hidden in Dustbin Triggers Alert

Blast Outside BSF Headquarters in Jalandhar Sparks Security Alert, Probe Underway

Blast Outside BSF Headquarters in Jalandhar, IED Hidden in Dustbin Triggers Alert

GGS NEWS

Jalandhar : A sudden explosion outside the headquarters of the Border Security Force (BSF) in Jalandhar on Wednesday triggered panic in the area and raised serious security concerns. Initial reports suggest that an explosive device was allegedly planted inside a dustbin near the premises, leading to the blast.

According to local authorities, the explosion occurred during the day in a relatively busy zone near the BSF establishment. While the intensity of the blast was reported to be low to moderate, it was enough to create a loud sound, causing alarm among residents and passersby. Fortunately, no casualties or major injuries have been reported so far, though a few people nearby were said to be shaken by the incident.

Police officials and bomb disposal squads quickly rushed to the spot after receiving information about the explosion. The area was immediately cordoned off, and a thorough search operation was launched to ensure there were no additional threats. Forensic teams have also been deployed to collect samples and gather evidence from the blast site.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the explosive material may have been deliberately placed in a dustbin, pointing towards a possible attempt to test security arrangements or create panic. However, officials have not ruled out any angle, including sabotage or a low-intensity improvised explosive device (IED).

Senior police officers stated that CCTV footage from nearby areas is being examined to identify any suspicious activity before the blast. Intelligence agencies have also been alerted, and coordination between central and state security forces has been strengthened following the incident.

“The situation is under control, and there is no need for panic. We are investigating all possible angles,” a senior official said, adding that security has been tightened in and around sensitive installations in the region.

The incident has raised concerns given the strategic importance of the BSF, which plays a crucial role in guarding India’s borders. Any security breach or attempted attack near such a facility is taken seriously by authorities.

Local residents described moments of fear following the blast. “We heard a loud noise and rushed out of our homes. There was confusion everywhere, but police arrived quickly and secured the area,” said a shopkeeper from the vicinity.

Punjab has witnessed heightened vigilance in recent months due to various security alerts, and this incident is likely to further intensify monitoring and preventive measures across the state.

Authorities have urged the public to remain calm but alert, and report any suspicious objects or activities to the police immediately. Meanwhile, further details are awaited as the investigation progresses and officials work to determine the exact nature and intent behind the explosion.

Rain Relief to Persist Across North India Till May 6

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Sat, 2 May 2026 11:24:00 +0530

Rain Relief to Persist Across North India Till May 6

Extended Wet Spell to Persist Across North India Till May 6, Bringing Relief from Rising Heat

AMRIT SIDHU

LUDHIANA : A prolonged spell of wet weather is set to continue across large parts of North India until May 6, offering much-needed respite from the early onset of summer heat. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a combination of western disturbances and moisture-laden winds is driving widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across the region.

States including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand have been experiencing intermittent showers over the past few days, and the pattern is expected to persist for the next several days. The IMD has forecast light to moderate rainfall in many areas, with isolated heavy showers and thunderstorms, particularly in the foothills and adjoining plains.

Meteorologists attribute this extended wet spell primarily to an active western disturbance — a weather system that originates in the Mediterranean region and moves eastward, bringing rain and snow to parts of northern India. The current system has been unusually persistent, supported by favorable atmospheric conditions that are allowing it to linger longer than typical early-May disturbances.

As a result, daytime temperatures across North India have dropped noticeably. Cities that were beginning to feel the intensity of summer heat have recorded temperatures several degrees below normal. In places like Delhi and Chandigarh, maximum temperatures have hovered in the comfortable range, reducing the likelihood of heatwave conditions in the immediate future.

The rainfall has also improved air quality levels in several urban centers. Dust particles and pollutants have been washed down by the showers, leading to clearer skies and better breathing conditions for residents. However, experts caution that this improvement may be temporary and dependent on the continuation of rainfall activity.

While the wet spell brings relief from heat, it has also caused localized disruptions. Sudden downpours and thunderstorms have led to waterlogging in low-lying areas, traffic congestion, and occasional power outages. Strong winds accompanying thunderstorms have resulted in fallen trees and minor damage to infrastructure in some districts.

In hilly regions such as Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, the IMD has warned of potential landslides and flash floods due to continuous rainfall. Tourists and residents have been advised to remain cautious, especially in vulnerable areas prone to slope instability. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have issued advisories to ensure public safety.

Agriculture has seen mixed impacts from the ongoing weather conditions. On one hand, the rainfall is beneficial for soil moisture and can support certain crops. On the other hand, unseasonal rain during harvesting periods may damage standing crops and affect yields. Farmers in several states have expressed concern about potential losses if the rains intensify or persist longer than expected.

The IMD has also highlighted the possibility of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–60 km/h in isolated areas. Residents are advised to take precautions during such events, including avoiding open spaces, securing loose objects, and staying indoors when thunderstorms occur.

Looking ahead, meteorologists suggest that the wet conditions are likely to gradually ease after May 6, as the western disturbance weakens and moves away. However, localized weather activity may still continue in some pockets beyond this period.

Climate experts note that such extended wet spells in early May are not entirely unusual but can vary in intensity and duration each year. Changing climate patterns may also be influencing the frequency and behavior of weather systems, making forecasting increasingly complex.

For now, the prevailing weather pattern offers a temporary break from the scorching heat that typically grips North India during this time of year. Residents are enjoying cooler days and pleasant evenings, even as they remain mindful of the challenges posed by sudden weather changes.

In conclusion, the ongoing wet spell across North India is a double-edged sword — providing relief from rising temperatures while also posing risks of disruption and damage. With forecasts indicating continued rainfall until May 6, authorities and citizens alike are urged to stay updated with weather advisories and take necessary precautions.

Iran War LIVE: Donald Trump Rejects Tehran Offer, Says No Quick End to Conflict

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Sat, 2 May 2026 10:59:00 +0530

Iran War LIVE: Donald Trump Rejects Tehran Offer, Says No Quick End to Conflict

Iran War LIVE: Donald Trump Rejects Tehran Offer, Signals No Quick End to Conflict

Iran War LIVE: Donald Trump Rejects Tehran Offer, Says No Quick End to Conflict

GGS NEWS

Washington,: The ongoing Iran war shows no signs of easing as U.S. President Donald Trump firmly ruled out any “early” end to hostilities, expressing dissatisfaction with the latest proposal from Tehran. His remarks have dampened hopes of a near-term diplomatic breakthrough and raised concerns about a prolonged conflict in the region.

Speaking during a high-level briefing, Trump indicated that the offer put forward by Iran failed to meet U.S. expectations on several critical fronts, including security guarantees and regional stability. While he did not disclose specific details of the proposal, he made it clear that Washington is not prepared to compromise on what it considers “core strategic interests.”

“We’re not looking at an early end,” Trump said, underscoring that any agreement must align with U.S. demands for long-term assurances. His comments suggest a hardened stance, even as international pressure mounts to de-escalate tensions.

The war, which has already disrupted global shipping routes and heightened military alert levels, continues to center around strategic choke points like the Strait of Hormuz. This vital passage, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply flows, has become a focal point of geopolitical tension, with repeated incidents involving commercial vessels and naval forces.

Iran, on its part, has signaled willingness to negotiate but insists on conditions that protect its sovereignty and economic interests. Officials in Tehran have maintained that any deal must include relief from sanctions and recognition of its regional role. However, the gap between both sides remains wide, making immediate progress unlikely.

Global reactions to Trump’s statement have been mixed. Allies have urged restraint and called for renewed diplomatic efforts, while markets reacted cautiously amid fears of extended instability. Oil prices have shown volatility as traders assess the risk of further disruptions in supply chains linked to the Gulf region.

Analysts believe that the rejection of Iran’s proposal could prolong the conflict unless backchannel negotiations manage to bridge the differences. “This is a clear signal that Washington is not in a hurry to settle,” said a geopolitical expert, adding that both sides appear to be preparing for a longer standoff rather than a quick resolution.

Meanwhile, humanitarian concerns are growing as the conflict continues to impact civilians and regional economies. Aid organizations have warned of escalating needs if the situation deteriorates further, particularly in areas directly affected by military operations.

With both Washington and Tehran holding firm to their positions, the prospect of peace remains uncertain. Trump’s latest remarks indicate that negotiations, if they continue, will be complex and drawn out. For now, the world watches closely as tensions persist, with no immediate end to the war in sight.

Voting Amid Heightened Security: Kolkata Faces Unusual Election Tension

noreply@blogger.com (AMRIT SIDHU) — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 13:41:00 +0530

Voting Amid Heightened Security: Kolkata Faces Unusual Election Tension

Voting Amid Heightened Security: Kolkata Faces Unusual Election Tension

Kolkata : Voting in Kolkata unfolded under an unusually heavy security presence, as authorities deployed large numbers of armed personnel across sensitive areas to ensure a peaceful electoral process. The intensified arrangements came amid concerns over potential unrest, transforming what is typically a vibrant democratic exercise into a tightly monitored event.

From the early hours of polling, voters arriving at booths were met with layers of security checks, including identity verification and surveillance. Central forces, along with state police, were stationed at key locations, particularly in constituencies previously flagged as vulnerable. Armed जवान (personnel), some carrying semi-automatic weapons, patrolled streets and guarded polling stations, creating an atmosphere many residents described as tense but controlled.

Election officials emphasized that the measures were precautionary, aimed at preventing any disruption to voting. In recent elections, parts of West Bengal have witnessed sporadic clashes between political workers, allegations of booth capturing, and voter intimidation. Authorities said the visible security presence was intended to reassure voters and uphold the integrity of the democratic process.

Despite the heightened vigilance, turnout remained steady throughout the day. Many citizens expressed determination to exercise their right to vote, even as the security arrangements underscored the seriousness of the situation. “It feels different this time, with so many forces around, but we are here to vote,” said a local resident standing in line at a polling booth.

Political parties, meanwhile, traded accusations over the necessity and intent of the security deployment. Some leaders argued that such heavy arrangements reflected deeper issues of trust and law and order, while others maintained that strict measures were essential to guarantee free and fair elections. The debate added a political dimension to an already sensitive environment.

Observers noted that while the strong security presence may have contributed to preventing major incidents, it also highlighted the challenges of conducting elections in regions with a history of political rivalry and occasional violence. The sight of heavily armed personnel in civilian neighborhoods served as a reminder of the delicate balance between maintaining order and preserving the open, participatory spirit of democracy.

As polling concluded, officials reported no major disruptions, though minor complaints and isolated incidents were recorded. Counting of votes is expected to take place under similar security arrangements, with authorities remaining on alert to handle any post-election tensions.

The day ultimately reflected both the resilience of voters and the complexities of ensuring safe elections in a charged political climate. While democracy was exercised, it did so under the shadow of heightened vigilance—an image that may continue to shape discussions around electoral security and public confidence in the days to come.