EU leaders have united for an "immediate humanitarian pause" in Gaza, as the US prepares to present a UN resolution urging a ceasefire and hostage release. The move follows mounting concerns over famine. The Biden administration's draft resolution marks a shift, demanding an "immediate ceasefire" tied to hostage release. CIA and Mossad chiefs are heading to Qatar for truce-for-hostages talks. The EU's call includes unconditional hostage release by Hamas and urges full humanitarian access to Gaza. Shifts in US language have facilitated EU consensus. US mission spokesperson anticipates council support for the resolution, pressuring Hamas to accept the deal.          

Canada is tightening its doors for temporary residents, impacting Indians eyeing settlement or work. Immigration Minister Marc Miller aims to reduce temporary residents from 6.2% to 5%, citing housing and service challenges. Employment Minister Randy Boissonnault states hiring foreign workers will be limited to 20%, except for sectors like agriculture. In 2023, India sent 26,495 temporary foreign workers to Canada, showcasing its significant role. Currently, Canada hosts over 2.5 million temporary residents, raising concerns about accommodation and services. The Indian community in Canada has steadily grown, reached over one million by 2020, signaling a vibrant presence.

Investigation into a UK clinic's breach of Kate Middleton's medical records sparks fears of blackmail. The probe follows allegations of unauthorized access, intensifying concerns over the princess's privacy. Former royal protection unit head urges a thorough Scotland Yard inquiry. Information Commissioner's Office assesses reports of staff attempting to view Middleton's records during her abdominal surgery. The London Clinic launches its investigation. Kensington Palace refrains from commenting, emphasizing the clinic's responsibility. Amidst conspiracy theories, Middleton's public outing aims to dispel rumors. The incident underscores the importance of privacy in medical matters.

Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, faced a barrage of 31 Russian missiles overnight, prompting chaos and injuries. Ukrainian air force intercepted the missiles, averting potential devastation. At least 17 people, including a child, were wounded by falling debris, with four hospitalized. President Volodymr Zelensky renewed pleas for Western military aid amid escalating attacks. The assault, the largest in weeks, follows Russian threats of retaliation over border skirmishes. Kyiv residents described scenes of terror as anti-missile systems engaged. In response, EU leaders convene to discuss increased support for Ukraine, as tensions escalate on both sides of the conflict.            

The iconic Jacobite train, famous for its role in Harry Potter films, is suspended pending a safety decision in the UK, potentially costing £50m. Operated by West Coast Railways, the service awaits approval to continue operating with hinged-door carriages. The Office of Rail and Road's ruling follows a High Court challenge over door safety. Despite the multimillion-pound retrofit cost, a judge upheld the ORR's safety concerns. The suspension disrupts the Fort William to Mallaig route, impacting tourism and local economies. WCR's application for an exemption is under assessment, while passengers are offered full refunds amidst uncertainty over the train's future.

As of Thursday, Israel's military reported that over 140 militants were killed in a four-day operation targeting Hamas militants at Gaza's Al-Shifa medical center. The Israeli army used tank fire and airstrikes in the raid. Combat ensued in the hospital area, which houses patients and displaced individuals. International outrage followed a previous raid in November. The military confirmed the continuation of precise operations in the Shifa hospital area, resulting in the elimination of over 50 militants in recent exchanges of fire. This ongoing situation reflects escalating tensions in the region.

At a House Committee hearing, Donald Lu, the United States Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, addressed concerns surrounding allegations against India in the Pannun case. The issue revolves around accusations of Indian involvement in targeting Sikh American Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Lu assured lawmakers of the Biden administration's serious approach to the matter, stating that the US is collaborating with India to ensure transparency and justice. Meanwhile, the hearing also underscored broader US-Pakistan relations, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in counterterrorism efforts amidst regional dynamics and concerns over Chinese influence.        

The United States has slipped eight spots in the global happiness rankings, falling out of the top 20 happiest countries, as revealed by the 2024 World Happiness Report. Factors contributing to this decline include a decrease in overall happiness among younger people and concerns about loneliness. Countries like Costa Rica and Kuwait have entered the top 20, while the US and Germany have dropped out. The report, based on self-assessments from over 140 countries, highlights the importance of social support, healthy life expectancy, and other key variables in determining life satisfaction. Today's release coincides with the UN's International Day of Happiness.

Leo Varadkar, Ireland's Indian-origin Prime Minister, announced his sudden resignation citing "personal and political reasons." The 45-year-old leader, first openly gay PM, stated he no longer feels best suited for the job after seven years in office. Varadkar, born to an Indian father and Irish mother, led Fine Gael since 2017. His resignation doesn't trigger a general election but initiates a leadership contest. He plans to continue as a member of parliament. Varadkar's departure leaves Ireland's political landscape in anticipation of change. Tanaiste Micheal Martin expressed surprise and wished him well for the future.

Elon Musk's Neuralink Corp. showcased its brain implant technology in a live stream, featuring quadriplegic patient Noland Arbaugh. Using his mind, Arbaugh played chess and Civilization VI on a computer, expressing joy at regaining lost abilities. The 29-year-old, injured in a diving accident, underwent the smooth Neuralink procedure in January. While acknowledging the need for further refinement, he lauded the breakthrough. Compared to other brain-computer interface devices, Neuralink's boasts more electrodes, hinting at broader future applications. This development marks a significant stride in enhancing the lives of individuals with severe physical limitations.