The US Citizenship and Immigration Services announced an immediate, indefinite halt to all immigration requests for Afghan nationals following a shooting near the White House. Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, shot two National Guard troops before being detained. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem revealed Lakanwal was mass-paroled under Operation Allies Welcome on September 8, 2021, during the Biden Administration. President Trump called Afghanistan a "hell hole on earth" and labeled the attack "monstrous" and an "act of terror." The USCIS stated the suspension aims to review security and vetting protocols, prioritizing homeland protection. Afghanistan hasn't responded to the immigration department's move.

India strongly rejected Pakistan's criticism of PM Modi hoisting a saffron flag at Ayodhya's Ram Temple. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal dismissed Pakistan's remarks, calling it a "country with a deeply stained record of bigotry" with no moral standing to lecture others. Pakistan had protested the flag-raising, claiming it pressured minorities and erased Muslim heritage, referencing the demolished Babri Masjid. On Tuesday, Modi raised a 22-foot saffron flag and led rituals performed by 108 priests under scholar Ganeshwar Shastri's guidance. He declared a "500-year-old resolve" fulfilled. The Supreme Court ruled in 2019 favoring Hindu plaintiffs after the 1992 mosque demolition. Modi laid the temple's foundation in 2020.

Indian cricketer Mohammed Siraj expressed frustration over Air India flight IX 2884 from Guwahati to Hyderabad, scheduled for 7:25 PM Wednesday, which was delayed four hours without proper communication. Siraj criticized the airline on X, calling it the "worst airline experience" and stating passengers were left stranded with no updates despite repeated follow-ups. He advised others against taking the flight if the airline couldn't take responsibility. Air India responded with an apology, revealing the flight was ultimately cancelled due to unforeseen operational reasons. The airline mentioned their airport team was assisting passengers with necessary arrangements and promised continued updates and support during the difficult situation.

Several US-based X accounts recently exploited old photos of Rajendra Panchal, a 40-year-old Pune helper, to post racist content targeting Indians. Panchal suffered a jaw fracture at age one, leading to TMJ ankylosis, a condition fusing his jaw to his skull. Unable to afford surgery, he survived 38 years on liquids until receiving free treatment in 2017. Racist American users circulated his pre-surgery images, calling Indians "deformed job-stealers," aligning with Trump's MAGA rhetoric. One post garnered 11 million views. A September 2025 report documented 680 high-engagement anti-Indian posts totaling 281 million views, with 70% framing Indians as "invaders." This xenophobia intensified under Trump's second term, targeting even disability. (PC: X via Mohammed Zubair)

After intense diplomacy, hope for peace in Ukraine is rising, but uncertainty remains. US President Donald Trump said a deal is "very close," while President Zelensky noted "many prospects" for peace after Geneva talks. European leaders revised the US 28-point plan, reducing territorial demands and emphasizing security guarantees. Russia has responded cautiously, saying many points need expert discussion. Key issues like security assurances, territorial control, and Ukraine’s NATO ties are still unresolved. Diplomats continue discussions, with US envoy Steve Witkoff heading to Moscow next week. Experts caution that while progress exists, the path to a final agreement remains long and complex. (PC: BBC)

Delhi’s air quality remained in the "very poor" category for the 13th consecutive day on Wednesday, with an AQI of 327. The Air Quality Early Warning System predicts no improvement in the coming week. Vehicular emissions were the largest contributor, accounting for 21.6% of pollution, while stubble burning added 0.8%. Health experts advise regular check-ups for those exposed, including children, elderly, smokers, and people with respiratory or heart conditions. Tests like spirometry, FeNO, pulse oximetry, and chest X-rays can help detect early lung or airway damage. Authorities continue to monitor real-time pollution data across the city. (PC: NDTV)

India’s home Test record has taken a heavy hit after back-to-back defeats to New Zealand (3–0) and South Africa (2–0). Under coach Gautam Gambhir, the team showed poor planning, weak batting, and lack of Test temperament. Questionable pitch choices and selection of unprepared players added to the problems. The second Test ended in a 408-run loss, highlighting India’s struggles. Experts say the team’s confused strategies and lack of application allowed visiting sides to dominate. India’s once-feared home advantage has weakened, raising concerns about coaching decisions and the team’s readiness for high-pressure matches. (PC: BBC)

At least 36 people have died in a major fire that swept through apartment blocks in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district. Authorities said 279 people are still missing as rescue work continues. More than 800 firefighters are trying to control the level-five blaze at Wang Fuk Court. A baby and an elderly woman were rescued late at night, according to local reports. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said the fire is now coming under control. The government also honoured a 37-year-old firefighter who died while fighting the flames. Families are seeking help after losing contact with loved ones.

India has approved a Rs 7,280-crore plan to build its own rare earth permanent magnet (REPM) industry and cut its heavy reliance on China. China controls about 90% of global rare earth magnet production, which is key for EVs, wind turbines, electronics and defence systems. The new scheme will create India’s first full rare earth supply chain, from oxides to metals and finished magnets. The plan will run for seven to ten years with subsidies and incentives to set up 6,000 MTPA capacity. India has large rare earth reserves but makes only 1% of global output today. (PC: India Today)

Mary D’Costa has spoken out as cheating rumours spread around Smriti Mandhana and Palash Muchhal’s postponed wedding. She said the chats with Palash took place only from April 29 to May 30. She added, “I never met him and I never got involved with him in any way.” D’Costa also said, “I am not the choreographer, and I am not the person he cheated with.” Screenshots of their chats, first posted on Reddit, went viral online. The wedding was put on hold after Smriti’s father fell ill. Smriti then deleted all wedding posts, adding to speculation. Palash’s cousin asked people not to judge him. (PC: X)