Ministry of External Affairs gave a brief response after Donald Trump reposted a comment calling India and China a “hellhole”. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal avoided a detailed reply. He said, “We have seen some reports. That's where I leave it.” The statement came during a media briefing when he was asked about the remark. The ministry did not offer further clarification or reaction. The response reflects a cautious approach by India on the issue. There has been no official comment beyond the short statement so far. (PC: HT)

US President Donald Trump has sparked controversy after posting a letter on Truth Social describing countries including India and China as “hellholes” while criticising birthright citizenship in the United States. The post also alleged that immigrants, particularly from India and China, dominate hiring in California’s tech sector, limiting opportunities for others, though no evidence was provided. His remarks come amid ongoing debates over immigration policy and citizenship laws in the US. The comments have drawn criticism for their tone and generalisations, potentially straining diplomatic sentiment. The episode highlights how immigration rhetoric remains a politically charged issue ahead of key policy discussions and elections.

A group of Indian tourists faced allegations of stealing hotel property at Asvara Resort Ubud in Bali after staff noticed missing items during checkout. Resort employees halted their departure and searched luggage, recovering items including towels, robes, utensils, a hair dryer and a remote box. A viral video of the incident triggered strong online reactions, with many criticising the behaviour while others cautioned against generalising. Authorities confirmed the tourists had stayed from April 16 to 19, and the matter was resolved without legal action after items were identified. The episode has reignited debate about tourist conduct and reputational impact abroad.

An India-bound vessel was among two ships seized by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions despite a ceasefire extension. Three container ships including Epaminondas, MSC Francesca and Euphoria were targeted, with Epaminondas, headed to India, sustaining heavy bridge damage after gunfire. Iran accused the vessels of violating maritime rules and tampering with navigation systems. The seizures came amid ongoing friction with the United States, which has been enforcing a naval blockade. The incident underscores rising risks to global shipping and uncertainty surrounding stalled US-Iran peace talks. (PC: NDTV)

On the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack, Sergio Gor affirmed that the United States stands with India in combating terrorism, honouring the 26 victims killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists in Pahalgam. Indian leaders including Narendra Modi, Droupadi Murmu, and Rahul Gandhi paid tributes, reiterating a zero-tolerance stance. The attack triggered Operation Sindoor and a brief India-Pakistan conflict. A memorial now stands at the site, symbolising national resolve, unity, and commitment to defeating terrorism.

Iranian forces opened fire on three container ships near the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions. One vessel, Epaminondas, was signalling Gujarat’s Mundra port as its destination. Another ship was headed to Sri Lanka, while a third was bound for Saudi Arabia. Two vessels were taken into custody by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, while one remained stranded. The incident follows US action against Iranian tankers during a naval blockade. Iran has called the blockade “armed piracy.” The attacks come despite a ceasefire announced by Donald Trump remaining in place. (PC: The Indian Express)

4 Indian tourists were accused of taking hotel items from a resort in Bali. The incident happened at Asvara Resort Ubud during checkout on April 19. Hotel staff checked their luggage after noticing missing items from the rooms. Reports said towels, robes, a hair dryer, dining utensils, a doormat, and a TV remote box were found inside the bags. A video of the incident was shared on social media and drew criticism online. Police said no formal complaint was filed. The matter was settled between the hotel and the guests after all items were returned.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it seized two ships near the Strait of Hormuz for breaking maritime rules. One vessel, EPAMINONDAS, was heading to Gujarat in India. The IRGC said the ships operated without permits and “tampered with navigation systems.” It added that such actions “endangered maritime security.” The second ship was bound for Sri Lanka. Iran said disruption in the strait is a “red line.” The incident comes amid tensions with the US, even as Donald Trump announced an extended ceasefire. Tehran has warned it will act against any violations in the key shipping route. (PC: X)

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has seized two vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, including one bound for India, and is reportedly taking them to Iranian waters. The IRGC claimed the ships were “violating” maritime rules, though details remain unclear. The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with ongoing US-Iran conflict, naval blockades, and repeated attacks on commercial shipping. The seizure highlights growing risks to global trade and energy routes, particularly for India, which relies heavily on oil shipments through the strait, raising concerns over safety and further escalation in the region. (PC: AP)

Prime Minister Balen Shah is facing growing protests in Nepal weeks after taking office. Demonstrations have spread across Kathmandu and reached Singha Durbar. Students and political groups are opposing the government’s move to sideline student unions. Many called it a “repressive approach”. Another trigger is a customs duty on goods brought from India, which residents say affects daily needs. Protesters are also demanding the resignation of Home Minister Sudan Gurung over alleged financial issues. The government now faces pressure on multiple fronts. (PC: India Today)