Myanmar’s military has announced a temporary ceasefire to help earthquake relief efforts. The ceasefire will last from April 2 to April 22. The 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck last Friday, killing at least 2,886 people. Many are still missing. Neighboring Thailand also felt the quake, with 21 deaths reported. Earlier this week, rebel groups stopped fighting to support rescue efforts. The military initially refused but later agreed. On Tuesday, troops fired at a Chinese Red Cross convoy carrying aid. No injuries were reported. Myanmar’s humanitarian crisis is worsening, and international aid is arriving. (PC: Shutterstock)

On April 2, 2025, former U.S. President Donald Trump declared the enforcement of reciprocal tariffs, calling it ‘Liberation Day’ for American businesses. The policy aims to counter what he calls “unfair trade practices,” particularly from countries like India, which imposes over 100% tariffs on certain U.S. goods. The proposed tariffs include a 20% levy on most imports, targeting industries such as agriculture, automotive, and technology. This move could escalate global trade tensions, with India and other nations potentially responding with retaliatory measures. The decision has sparked mixed reactions from global markets and trade analysts. (PC: Reuters)

A fire near Heathrow Airport caused major disruptions during rush hour, forcing the closure of a key train station and delaying services between London Paddington and Heathrow Terminals. National Rail confirmed the fire halted train operations, stating, “Trains are unable to call at Heathrow Terminals.” Though lines have reopened, delays of up to 30 minutes persist. The incident follows a fatal collision in Feltham that resulted in a separate fire. Authorities are investigating both incidents. Commuters are advised to check schedules before traveling. (PC: Express)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated he is "preparing for all eventualities" ahead of Donald Trump’s tariff announcement. Trump, calling it "Liberation Day," will unveil widespread tariffs at 16:00 EST (21:00 BST). The European Union has warned of a "robust and calibrated response," while US retailers express concern over rising costs. Analysts caution that tariffs may increase global prices despite Trump’s claims of addressing "unfair" trade. The scope of the tariffs remains uncertain, with potential impacts on key trade partners, including the UK. Starmer’s government continues trade talks with Washington amid uncertainty. (PC: BBC)

Former President Donald Trump will impose new tariffs from April 2, targeting countries with high duties on US goods. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent identified the “Dirty 15,” including China, India, Germany, and Mexico, as key offenders. Trump called the move “Liberation Day” for American trade. The tariffs will vary by industry, with higher duties on automobiles, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals. The US Trade Representative also flagged 21 nations for unfair trade practices. “These countries have taken advantage of us for too long,” Trump stated. The tariffs are expected to impact global trade significantly. (PC: India Today)

Israel has escalated its military offensive in Gaza, aiming to seize significant territory to create expanded “security zones.” Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Israeli forces would capture extensive land, urging Gazans to expel Hamas and release hostages. The assault has intensified, with at least 21 Palestinians killed in the latest attacks. Gaza’s humanitarian crisis worsens as all bakeries shut down due to supply shortages. The ongoing blockade has left civilians struggling for food and medicine. International organizations have condemned the offensive, warning of a deepening catastrophe as Israel continues its large-scale military operations. (PC: Al Jazeera)

Mumbai Indians’ star pacer Jasprit Bumrah’s return has been delayed as BCCI remains cautious over his back injury. A BCCI source told The Times of India, “Bumrah’s injury is serious, and we don’t want to risk a stress fracture.” The pacer, recovering since injuring his back in the Sydney Test, has resumed bowling at Bengaluru’s CoE but isn’t at full intensity. Mumbai Indians were expecting him by April 1, but no timeline is set. Former Kiwi bowler Shane Bond warned against over-bowling him, stating he’s "on the borderline of a fracture."

Israel has intensified military operations in Gaza, with Defence Minister Israel Katz announcing plans to seize "large areas" for security zones. Airstrikes killed 15 in Khan Yunis and Nuseirat, as humanitarian conditions deteriorate. The Hamas-run health ministry reports over 50,399 killed since the war began. A group representing Israeli hostages expressed concern that territorial expansion is taking priority over rescue efforts. Meanwhile, ceasefire negotiations continue, with Hamas approving a new proposal. The UN condemned an Israeli attack on an aid convoy that killed 15 workers. Hunger worsens in Gaza as bakeries shut down due to food shortages. (PC: NDTV)

US President Donald Trump is set to announce sweeping tariffs, calling it "Liberation Day." The White House has not revealed details on tariff rates or targeted countries. Trump claims the move will boost American manufacturers by discouraging foreign imports. However, analysts warn of higher consumer prices and potential trade wars. The European Union has threatened retaliation, while UK officials express both concern and optimism. Reports suggest several nations have contacted Trump for last-minute talks. The tariffs, if imposed, could reshape global trade dynamics, impacting economies worldwide. Observers await Trump's announcement for further clarity. (PC: BBC)

The White House sparked controversy by using Ghibli-style AI-generated images in its deportation messaging. A viral post depicted a weeping migrant in an anime aesthetic, while another video set footage of shackled deportees to Closing Time. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the move, saying, “It sums up our immigration policy.” Critics argue this trivializes human suffering and normalizes far-right rhetoric. Experts warn that such messaging undermines the presidency’s credibility. Despite backlash, White House official Kaelan Dorr declared, “The arrests will continue. The memes will continue,” signaling an embrace of internet troll culture in official government communications. (PC: X/@Whitehouse)