A Diwali celebration in Seattle was disrupted by far-right activists Jake Lang and Thomas Allen, who carried anti-Hindu placards targeting Hindus and people of Indian origin. The incident has triggered strong reactions from US lawmakers and the Indian-American community. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal condemned the demonstration, saying, “I am beyond disgusted by this vile and racist display.” Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi also called for action against religious hatred, saying, “We have a lot of work to do.” Businessman Ajay Jain Bhutoria described the incident as “pure hate and bigotry”, while Hindu organisations urged the community to remain vigilant.

Pakistan defeated India by 3 wickets in a Group A clash of the ACC Men's Under-19 Asia Cup 2026 in Oman on Sunday. After winning the toss, India elected to bat but struggled against Pakistan's bowling attack. Arjun Rajput led India's fightback with a brilliant 107 off 85 balls, including 11 fours and 5 sixes. Aaryavir Sehwag scored 22, while Anvay Dravid managed just 10 runs. India were bowled out for 208 in 46.3 overs. Pakistan chased down the target, scoring 209/7 in 48.1 overs to secure an important victory. (PC: NDTV)

US President Donald Trump has vowed that America will return “bigger and stronger than ever” after the Republican Party suffered a major defeat in the November 3 midterm elections. Calling the outcome a “giant step back in history”, Trump blamed the election results for a reported $3 trillion loss in the stock market. In a post on his social media platform Truth Social on Sunday, he defended his economic record and expressed confidence in a political comeback. Democrats secured control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate, dealing a major setback to Trump and his Republican Party. (PC: India Today)

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) seized 3,279.57 metric tonnes of food products worth ₹81.8 crore during a nationwide enforcement drive conducted between September 1 and November 5, 2026. Authorities inspected 56,431 food establishments and issued 10,047 improvement notices. The regulator suspended 1,133 licences, cancelled 52 licences and sealed 314 establishments for violations. Of 23,648 food samples analysed from 43,939 collected, 2,273 failed safety standards. Seized products included milk, paneer, sweets, ghee, cooking oils and packaged foods. Authorities also initiated 410 prosecutions against violators. 

Iran's Armed Forces have issued a strong warning to the United States, declaring that any renewed military aggression would lead to the collapse and disintegration of Washington's influence. Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi, spokesperson for Iran's Armed Forces, said on November 8 that US policies of aggression, assassination and maximum pressure had failed to weaken Iran. He described recent political setbacks faced by President Donald Trump and Republicans as evidence of Washington's declining influence. Iranian commanders also reaffirmed their military readiness, warning that Tehran would respond decisively to any further threats or attacks. (PC: Reuters)

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has tasked opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot with forming the country's next government after the October 27 election produced no clear majority. Eisenkot has 28 days, with a possible 14-day extension, to secure the 61 seats required in the 120-member Knesset. His bloc holds 48 seats, while two Arab parties control 19 seats and could provide crucial support. However, disagreements over cooperation with Arab lawmakers and ultra-Orthodox parties complicate negotiations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose bloc secured 53 seats, remains a potential contender if Eisenkot fails to form a government. (PC: NDTV)

The United States has announced the formation of Task Force Iron Gate to disrupt Iran’s land-based supply routes for weapons, sanctioned materials and military equipment. Announced by US Central Command (CENTCOM) on November 7, the 20-member unit will operate from Tampa, Florida, coordinating with government agencies to monitor Iran’s land borders and the Caspian Sea. Admiral Brad Cooper said the initiative aims to restrict Tehran’s ability to finance militant activities, rebuild weapons factories and strengthen its military. The move expands Washington’s existing naval blockade, which CENTCOM claims has prevented over $25 billion in Iranian crude oil exports. 

Delhi's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category on November 8, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 376. Thick smog blanketed the capital, reducing visibility, while Jahangirpuri recorded the highest AQI of 463. Of the 59 monitoring stations reporting data, 12 recorded severe pollution levels. Authorities warned that air quality could deteriorate further after Diwali celebrations due to firecracker emissions, vehicle pollution and seasonal stubble burning. Unfavourable weather conditions and low wind speeds are also preventing pollutants from dispersing. The AQI is forecast to remain severe from November 9. (PC: PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said armed Maoists had been eliminated from the forests but warned that the threat of “dimagi Naxals” remained. Addressing security personnel during Diwali celebrations at a CRPF camp in Karanpur, Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district, Modi alleged that ideological supporters of Naxalism had infiltrated political parties and several organisations. He accused them of instigating people against the Constitution and democratic institutions. The Prime Minister credited his government's policies and political will for the progress against Maoist violence. He also said that no CRPF personnel had been killed in action during the past year. (PC: HT)

Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi celebrated Diwali by trying his hand at making traditional sweets at Delhi's historic Ghantewala shop. During his visit to Old Delhi on October 20, 2025, Gandhi prepared imarti and besan laddoos with the help of the shop's staff. The owner also shared memories of delivering sweets to several generations of the Gandhi family, including Rahul's father, Rajiv Gandhi. He jokingly told Rahul that the shop was waiting to supply sweets for his wedding. Gandhi smiled at the remark and spoke about the skill and effort involved in traditional sweet-making. (PC: X)