Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a key phone conversation with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. Hegseth expressed condolences and affirmed US support for India's right to defend itself against terrorism. Singh accused Pakistan of acting as a rogue state by destabilizing the region and fuelling global terror. He emphasized that the world can no longer ignore terrorism. Hegseth reiterated America's strong backing of India in its counter-terror efforts. The call comes amid rising Indo-Pak tensions, with troop build-ups at the border and cross-border ceasefire violations intensifying in recent days. (PC: AP)

Growing dissent within Israel’s military is pressuring Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as over 12,000 reservists, including elite commanders and ex-Mossad chief Danny Yatom, demand an end to the Gaza war. The reservists argue that continued fighting risks the lives of 59 hostages still held by Hamas and accuse Netanyahu of prioritizing political survival over national interest. With reserve attendance dropping to nearly 50%, the crisis echoes Israel’s 1982 Lebanon war. Demonstrators across Israel echo the call for a ceasefire and hostage deal. Netanyahu dismissed critics as fringe elements, despite polls showing rising public support for ending the conflict. (PC: Getty Images)

Sixteen European Union member states have invoked the EU's "national escape clause" to increase defence spending, allowing them to exceed the 3% GDP deficit limit for up to four years. This move comes in response to rising security concerns, particularly the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Countries including Germany, Poland, and the Baltic states have requested exemptions to increase military budgets by up to 1.5% of GDP annually. The European Commission will review these requests, ensuring they align with fiscal policies. This collective decision underscores the EU's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities in uncertain times. (PC: AP)  

Pakistan is experiencing a significant surge in solar energy use, with over 14% of the country's electricity now derived from solar power, compared to just 4% in 2021. This rise is largely fueled by affordable Chinese solar panels, which have become increasingly popular among affluent households and businesses to counteract soaring electricity costs. However, this shift has led to increased disparities, as wealthier individuals benefit from reduced energy bills, while middle-class and low-income residents struggle with high installation costs. Additionally, reliance on solar imports raises concerns about long-term sustainability and local manufacturing challenges. (PC: AFP)

A high school relay race in Utah turned into an unforgettable spectacle when a dog named Holly sprinted onto the track during the final leg of a 4x200m race. Racing alongside Logan High School’s Gracie Laney, Holly clocked an astonishing 100m time of approximately 10.5 seconds—just shy of Usain Bolt’s 9.58 world record. “I thought it was a runner at first,” Laney said, “but then I realized it was a dog!” Despite the near photo finish, Laney’s team officially won with a time of 1:59.27. Holly, meanwhile, won the crowd’s heart and internet fame for her sprinting surprise.

The US and Ukraine have signed a new natural resources deal aimed at helping Ukraine recover from war damage. Both countries will create a joint fund, equally shared, to support military aid and rebuild Ukraine. In return, the US will get future access to Ukrainian minerals like titanium and graphite. Ukrainian adviser Yurki Sak said the deal could lead to “a just and lasting peace.” The agreement follows months of talks, after a delayed signing in February. Many Ukrainians are hopeful, though some still fear losing US support. Meanwhile, a Russian drone strike in Odesa killed two people overnight. (PS: BBC)

In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists, security forces have foiled a major terror plot near the Indo-Pak border in Amritsar. A joint operation by BSF and Punjab Police led to the recovery of three pistols, six magazines, 50 live rounds, and two grenades near Bharopal village. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given the armed forces full freedom to respond, as tensions escalate with continued ceasefire violations and heightened security. The NIA has taken charge of the probe, and airspace restrictions against Pakistan are set to severely impact PIA operations, particularly on northern routes. (PC: India Today)

NIA investigations into the Pahalgam terror attack reveal the terrorists had conducted reconnaissance at three other locations—Aru Valley, Betab Valley, and an amusement park—before targeting Baisaran Valley. Their plans were foiled due to heavy security presence. The attackers stayed in Baisaran two days prior to the April 22 assault that killed 26 tourists, including one Nepali national. Four overground workers aided in planning, with 20 identified and over 180 detained so far. Victims’ families say terrorists targeted Hindus after verifying religious identity. The brutal act has intensified tensions in the region, prompting widespread security crackdowns and diplomatic fallout. (PC: PTI)

The U.S. and Ukraine have signed a long-anticipated agreement to jointly develop Ukraine's vast energy and mineral resources, including rare earth elements crucial for defense and green technologies. The deal establishes a 50:50 U.S.-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund to boost Ukraine’s post-war economy and secure future U.S. security aid. Signed in Washington by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Deputy PM Yulia Svyrydenko, the deal follows intense negotiations and a push from President Trump. Kyiv retains ownership of the resources, while the U.S. gains strategic access. Trump called the deal “a very good thing” after meeting Zelensky at Pope Francis' funeral.

Following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26, tensions between India and Pakistan have intensified. Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that the “chances of conflict with India are rising,” amid claims that India is preparing military action within 24–36 hours. India has responded by banning Pakistani airlines from its airspace and reaching out to UNSC members for diplomatic support. Meanwhile, families of victims are demanding justice, and Indian leaders are urging strong retaliation. Despite international efforts to ease tensions, both nations have hardened their stances, escalating fears of a broader confrontation in the region. (PC: Hindustan Times)