In the past 48 hours, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have killed over a dozen Palestinian children, including 11-year-old influencer Yaqeen Hammad, known for her humanitarian work. The attacks also claimed the lives of nine of Dr. Alaa Amir al-Najjar’s ten children; the sole survivor, 11-year-old Adam, remains in critical condition. Additionally, four-year-old Mohammed Yassine died from starvation amid a worsening humanitarian crisis, with over 70,000 children facing acute malnutrition due to Israel's blockade. Children constitute 31% of the confirmed Palestinian deaths in Israel’s 19-month war on Gaza, a figure likely underreported. The UN highlights Israel's disproportionate violence against children, exacerbated by repeated air raids on residential areas. (PC: Al Jazeera)

Russia launched its largest aerial assault on Ukraine, deploying nearly 400 drones and missiles overnight, resulting in at least 13 civilian deaths, including three children, and injuring over 60 people. The attack targeted multiple cities, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Zhytomyr, causing widespread destruction. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the international community's muted response, particularly from the U.S., urging for stronger sanctions against Russia. Despite the assault, Ukraine and Russia conducted a significant prisoner exchange, each releasing 1,000 captives, signaling a rare moment of cooperation. However, the continued aggression undermines ceasefire efforts, with Ukrainian officials warning that without increased international pressure, Russia will escalate its military actions. (PC: Reuters)

On May 25, 2025, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul. Sharif expressed gratitude for Erdogan's "resolute support" during recent India-Pakistan tensions. The leaders discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation, focusing on energy, trade, transportation, defense, intelligence sharing, and counter-terrorism efforts. Sharif referred to Erdogan as a "dear brother," emphasizing the unbreakable bond between Pakistan and Turkey. The meeting underscored Turkey's backing of Pakistan amid regional conflicts, highlighting their shared commitment to strengthening ties across multiple sectors. (PC: India Today)

Amid escalating tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, labeling them as "absolutely CRAZY." The assaults, among the most intense since the war's inception, coincided with a significant prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, each releasing approximately 1,000 detainees. Trump expressed frustration over the continued violence, emphasizing that such actions could lead to Russia's downfall. He also criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, suggesting that the conflict would not have started under his administration and pledging to end the war if re-elected. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio hinted at imposing steep tariffs on Russian energy exports should peace initiatives fail, contingent on Trump's support. (PC: NBC & Reuters)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized the U.S. for its “silence” after Russia launched its biggest aerial assault since the war began, killing at least 12 people, including three children. The overnight strikes targeted 22 locations with 367 drones and missiles. Zelensky warned that without stronger U.S. pressure, President Putin would feel encouraged to continue the war. Kyiv’s Air Force destroyed 266 UAVs and 45 cruise missiles. Despite recent U.S.-Russia ceasefire talks, Moscow has intensified attacks, with over 60 civilians injured and major infrastructure damaged. Zelensky urged global leaders to act, stating, “War doesn’t stop on weekends.” (PC: Reuters)

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, speaking at a community event in New York, recalled the 2016 Pathankot air base attack and slammed Pakistan for squandering what he called its “last opportunity” to show sincerity against terrorism. Tharoor recounted how Indian authorities allowed Pakistani investigators to visit the Pathankot site, only for them to return and blame India for the attack. He highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unexpected 2015 visit to Pakistan as a gesture of goodwill, which was quickly betrayed. Tharoor’s remarks come as part of a global diplomatic mission to expose Pakistan’s alleged role in cross-border terrorism. (PC: HT)

A devastating overnight aerial assault by Russia on Ukraine claimed at least 12 civilian lives, including three siblings in the Zhytomyr region. Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betsa identified the children as Stanislav (8), Tamara (12), and Roman (17). The strike, involving nearly 300 drones and 69 missiles, is among the largest since the war began. Ms. Betsa extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving family. The attack has triggered international outcry, with Donald Trump’s Ukraine envoy calling for a ceasefire "now." Ukrainian President Zelenskyy warned that global silence only emboldens Russia as the war continues to escalate.

A major power cut hit Nice in southern France early Sunday after a fire broke out at a power substation. Police found tyre marks and a broken door, calling it a “malicious act.” About 45,000 homes, Nice Airport, and nearby towns lost electricity. Power was restored later in the morning. This comes just a day after a blackout in Cannes affected 160,000 homes during the film festival. Both incidents are suspected sabotage, though no link is confirmed yet. Nice’s mayor vowed tighter security at power sites. Police have launched an investigation into organised arson to find those responsible. (PC: Getty Images)

Abdul Latif, a Baloch journalist, was shot dead in his home in Balochistan's Awaran district. Unknown gunmen tried to kidnap him. When he resisted, they killed him in front of his wife and children. Latif had reported on human rights issues and worked with Daily Intikhab and Aaj News. His son and other relatives were also found dead months ago after being kidnapped. Journalist groups and human rights activists have condemned the killing. They say it is part of Pakistan's "kill and dump" policy. They are asking the international community to speak out and demand justice for the Baloch people. (PC: NDTV)

On May 25, 2025, Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip resulted in the deaths of at least 23 Palestinians, including journalist Hassan Majdi Abu Warda and senior civil emergency official Ashraf Abu Nar, along with his wife. The strikes targeted areas in Khan Younis, Jabalia, and Nuseirat. Abu Warda's death brings the total number of journalists killed in Gaza since October 7, 2023, to 220, according to Gaza’s media office. Israeli forces now reportedly control 77% of Gaza through ground presence or heavy bombardment. In response, Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters claimed to have launched multiple ambushes and attacks against Israeli forces. The ongoing conflict, which began after a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, has led to over 53,900 Palestinian deaths as per Gaza health authorities and caused widespread devastation and malnutrition. (PC: Reuters)