An Indian national was killed and another injured in a shooting near a Shiite mosque in Muscat, Oman, on July 15. The Indian Embassy in Oman confirmed the incident and offered condolences, pledging support to the victims' families. The attack, coinciding with Shiite Ashura commemorations, is the first of its kind in Oman. Police are investigating and have implemented security measures. Shiites form a minority in Oman, where most follow Sunni or Ibadi branches of Islam. Oman has a population exceeding four million, with over 40% being expatriates.

India, Indonesia, and Australia reaffirmed their dedication to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific during a trilateral dialogue meeting. The discussions focused on collaboration opportunities under the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and the Indian Ocean Rim Association mechanisms. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted areas of cooperation including maritime domain awareness, marine pollution, and blue economy efforts. The meeting emphasized the convergence between India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, reinforcing ASEAN's central role in regional stability and cooperation.

Indian students aspiring to study in the UK are hopeful that the newly elected Labour government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, will implement immigrant-friendly policies. Previously, the Sunak administration proposed restricting the graduate visa route, which allows international graduates to work in the UK for two years post-graduation. Experts believe maintaining this visa is crucial for universities' financial stability. The new government is expected to review restrictive policies and potentially introduce more scholarships and streamlined visa processes to support international students, ensuring the UK remains a top destination for higher education.

An Indian national was among six people killed in a mass shooting near a Shia mosque in Muscat, Oman. The attack, which occurred on July 16, 2024, also left nearly 30 people wounded. The Indian embassy in Oman confirmed the death of the Indian citizen via a social media post. Among the deceased were four Pakistani nationals. This incident is notably rare in the typically stable Gulf sultanate. Local authorities are investigating the motive behind the attack and have heightened security measures around religious sites.

The UK Home Office has announced the second and final ballot for the India Young Professional Scheme, allowing Indian nationals to live, work, and study in the UK for 24 months. The ballot opens on July 16 at 13:30 IST and closes on July 18. Eligible applicants must be aged 18-30, hold a bachelor's degree, have GBP 2,530 in savings, and no dependent children under 18. The UK has allocated 3,000 places, with most already filled in the February ballot. The remaining spots will be distributed in the July ballot.

The Indian government has released $2.5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) as part of its annual contribution of $5 million for 2024-25. This funding supports UNRWA's core programs, including education, healthcare, and relief services for Palestinian refugees. India has provided $35 million to UNRWA since 2023-24. The donation comes as UNRWA faces challenges in maintaining its operations amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. India's contribution aims to support the welfare of Palestinian refugees and reaffirms its commitment to their well-being.

The US has urged India to use its close relationship with Russia to persuade President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller made the request, noting India's longstanding ties with Russia. The US encourages India to promote a peaceful resolution, respecting Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty. This appeal comes as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues, with the international community seeking a diplomatic solution. The US seeks India's support in promoting a peaceful outcome, leveraging their unique relationship with Russia.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau called singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh "a guy from Punjab," causing a controversy. Many felt he should have called Dosanjh an Indian artist. BJP's Manjinder Singh Sirsa accused Trudeau of "mischief." Trudeau met Dosanjh at his Toronto show and praised him on social media. Critics say Trudeau's words fuel separatist sentiments amid strained India-Canada relations. Dosanjh clarified that being Punjabi means being Indian, highlighting his roots and music career tied to India. Trudeau’s remarks overshadowed his praise for Dosanjh’s success.

The UK Home Office has announced the final ballot for the India Young Professional Scheme 2024. This scheme allows young Indian nationals to live, work, and study in the UK for up to 24 months. The ballot opens on July 16 and closes on July 18, 2024. Applicants must be 18-30 years old, have a bachelor’s degree, savings of £2,530, and no dependent children. The scheme offers 3,000 places for 2024, with most already filled in February. Entry to the ballot is free, but successful applicants must pay £298 for the visa.

Police in northern Italy have rescued 33 Indian farm workers from slave-like conditions. Lured by promises of good jobs, they worked over 10 hours a day for low wages, which went to pay off debts. Their passports were taken, and they lived in poor conditions. Two Indian men, who recruited them, were arrested with about $545,300. The rescued workers, who had paid large sums for work permits, are now getting help from social services. This case highlights the ongoing issue of worker exploitation in Italy's agricultural sector.