In an interview with Al Jazeera, Taliban Defence Minister Mohammad Yaqoob dismissed Pakistan's claims that India played a role in recent border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Yaqoob termed the allegations as "unfounded, illogical, and unacceptable," emphasizing that Afghanistan maintains an independent foreign policy and does not use its territory against other nations. He reiterated Kabul's commitment to strengthening ties with both India and Pakistan based on mutual respect and national interests. Yaqoob also called for international mediation by Qatar and Turkey to uphold the peace agreement between Afghanistan and Pakistan.     

A Lithuanian couple braved treacherous, icy conditions to scale Poland’s highest peak, Mount Rysy, while carrying their nine-month-old baby. Despite repeated warnings from guides and rescuers and lacking proper gear, they continued their ascent. The father later realised he could not safely descend and attempted to borrow crampons from a guide. The guide eventually carried the baby down to safety. The incident, captured on video, quickly went viral and sparked widespread outrage, with many condemning the parents’ decision as “beyond reckless.”   

Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked US President Donald Trump for his Diwali greetings, saying that India and the US should “illuminate the world with hope.” In his message on X, Modi added that the two democracies must stand united against terrorism in all forms. His post came a day after Trump celebrated Diwali at the White House and claimed he had spoken to Modi about trade issues. During the celebration, Trump lit a traditional brass lamp and praised the festival’s message of light over darkness and good over evil. Modi’s reply emphasized friendship and shared values. (PC: India Today)

Jewellery worth €88 million was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris in a bold daylight robbery. The stolen pieces included a diamond tiara worn by Empress Eugenie and a necklace gifted by Emperor Napoleon. Four masked thieves used power tools to break in through a balcony and escaped within eight minutes on scooters. French President Emmanuel Macron called it an attack on France’s heritage. Officials admitted major security lapses, with alarms and CCTV not working in several rooms. Investigators believe the jewels may already have been melted or smuggled out of France by professional criminals. (PC: BBC)

US President Donald Trump warned Hamas of a “fast, furious and brutal” response if it violates the Gaza ceasefire. He said several US allies were ready to enter Gaza and strike Hamas but claimed he told them and Israel to wait. Trump urged Hamas to “do what is right” to avoid destruction. The warning comes as both sides accuse each other of breaking the truce over aid and hostage issues. US Vice President JD Vance is visiting Israel to discuss Trump’s 20-point ceasefire plan, which includes Hamas disarmament and steps toward a lasting peace.

Sanae Takaichi has become Japan’s first female prime minister. Her rise is historic in a male-dominated political system. Many celebrate this as a step for women. But critics say Takaichi’s conservative views may not help gender equality. She opposes same-sex marriage, separate surnames for married women, and women in the imperial succession. Some young women say her leadership may reinforce traditional roles. Takaichi supports childcare incentives but sticks to conservative policies. Her backers include senior LDP figures like Taro Aso. While her election is symbolic, experts say real change for women in Japan may still be slow. (PC: X)

The Asia Cup 2025 trophy dispute continues as ACC President and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi refused to send the trophy to India. He asked the BCCI to hold a ceremony in India and send a player to collect it personally. The issue began after India beat Pakistan in the final and skipped the award ceremony in protest against Naqvi’s remarks. The BCCI later demanded the trophy through a formal letter, calling Naqvi’s actions unacceptable. The standoff has now become a fresh flashpoint in India-Pakistan cricket ties, with no resolution yet in sight.

Afghanistan’s Defense Minister Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid has dismissed Pakistan’s claims that India is behind tensions in the region. He called the allegations “unfounded, illogical, and unacceptable.” Mujahid said Afghanistan manages its foreign relations independently and will continue to strengthen ties with India based on national interests. He added that Kabul does not allow its land to be used against any country, including Pakistan. Mujahid also urged both nations to focus on trade and good relations. The statement comes amid growing border clashes and Pakistan’s accusations of Afghan support for militant groups. (PC: HT)

The Louvre Museum in Paris remains closed after a daring daylight robbery stunned France. Four thieves broke into the museum’s Galerie d’Apollon using power tools and escaped on scooters with eight priceless royal jewels. The stolen items include tiaras, necklaces, and brooches once owned by French queens and empresses. Two pieces were later found near the museum. Officials said the gang acted calmly and appeared highly trained. France’s culture minister called it a “painful” loss and “an attack on our heritage.” Around 60 investigators are hunting the suspects as France questions museum security. (PC: BBC)

Denise Bacon, a 65-year-old retired therapist from East Sussex, played clarinet during four-hour brain surgery at King's College Hospital, achieving instant relief from Parkinson's symptoms. During Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery led by Professor Keyoumars Ashkan, electrodes were implanted while Bacon remained awake under local anesthetic. Her live musical performance helped neurosurgeons fine-tune electrode placement, resulting in immediate improvement in finger dexterity and hand movements. The procedure involved drilling holes half the size of a five-pence coin into her skull using precise coordinates. Bacon, diagnosed in 2014, had abandoned her beloved East Grinstead Concert Band five years ago. She now has a rechargeable pulse generator lasting 20 years, automatically adjusting stimulation while delivering continuous electrical currents. (PC: NDTV)