India has repatriated over 500 nationals trapped in Myanmar and Thailand after being lured by fake job offers, the External Affairs Ministry said. Victims, promised high-paying IT jobs, were forced into cybercrime operations. Many endured harsh conditions under criminal syndicates before authorities intervened. Indian officials collaborated with local governments for their safe return. The government has issued fresh advisories warning against fraudulent job schemes targeting Indian youth. Efforts continue to track more victims and prevent human trafficking. Families of those affected have urged stronger measures to stop such organized scams.

U.S. President Donald Trump, alongside Tesla CEO Elon Musk, purchased a red Tesla Model S, signaling his support for the electric vehicle maker amidst challenges. During the visit, Trump joked that Musk would give him a discount on the car. Despite his previous skepticism about electric vehicles, Trump praised Tesla for its innovation. The vehicle is planned for use by White House staff. This move follows Tesla's struggles, including a significant drop in stock prices and declining sales, while Trump's backing of Musk may help boost the company's image.  

In a dramatic attack, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked the Jaffar Express, a train traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, by detonating explosives on the tracks in Balochistan, causing the train to halt. The insurgents took over the train, holding over 400 passengers hostage. Pakistani security forces rescued 155 passengers after a standoff, killing 27 militants. While the situation remains critical, with suicide bombers near hostages, the rescue operation continues. The BLA has claimed to release women and children, but authorities dispute this claim.

Baloch insurgents hijacked the Jaffar Express in Balochistan after bombing the railway track, forcing it to stop. The train, carrying over 400 passengers, mostly security personnel, was attacked by armed militants who took hostages and killed at least 30 security personnel. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility, demanding the release of Baloch political prisoners. Pakistani forces reported killing 27 rebels in a counter-operation. Balochistan CM Sarfraz Bugti vowed continued military action. The situation remains tense, with over 214 passengers still held hostage.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Kyiv accepts the U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire with Russia. "Ukraine is ready for peace. Russia must show whether it is ready to stop the war or continue it," he stated. After nine-hour talks in Jeddah, the U.S. lifted its pause on intelligence-sharing and military aid. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, "The ball is now in Russia's court." Donald Trump confirmed he plans to speak with Vladimir Putin, stating, "It takes two to tango." The agreement now hinges on Moscow’s response.

NASA has announced the elimination of its Chief Scientist position, previously held by Dr. Katherine Calvin, as part of a broader organizational restructuring. This move also includes the closure of the Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy, and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility branch. These changes, affecting 23 employees, align with the Trump administration's cost-cutting initiatives aimed at reducing the federal workforce. Dr. Calvin, appointed in January 2022, played a pivotal role in advising on science programs and climate-related initiatives. The restructuring has raised concerns about potential impacts on NASA's scientific research and diversity efforts.

Pakistani security forces rescued 155 passengers from the hijacked Jaffar Express, killing 27 Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) insurgents. The train, carrying 425 passengers, was hijacked in Balochistan’s Mashkaf tunnel. The BLA claims to hold 214 hostages and threatens executions if its demands, including the release of political prisoners, aren’t met. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, while authorities launched emergency operations in hospitals. The hijacking follows rising insurgent violence in Balochistan, with previous attacks killing dozens. Rescue efforts continue amid escalating tensions.

Ukraine has agreed to a 30-day ceasefire with Russia after talks with US officials in Jeddah. US President Donald Trump welcomed the decision, expressing hope that Russian President Vladimir Putin would also agree. "The ceasefire is very important. If Russia agrees, it will be great," Trump said. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called Ukraine’s move "a step closer to durable peace." Following this, the US lifted its pause on intelligence sharing with Ukraine. Trump announced plans to speak with Putin and invite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the White House for further negotiations.

At least 155 hostages were rescued after armed rebels hijacked the Jaffar Express in Balochistan, Pakistan. The train, carrying over 400 passengers, was attacked in a tunnel en route from Quetta to Peshawar. Pakistani forces engaged in an overnight gunfight with the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), killing 27 rebels. The freed passengers—58 men, 31 women, and 15 children—were taken to Mach for medical aid. It remains unclear how many hostages are still onboard. Pakistani soldiers have secured Mach railway station. The attack follows recent instability in the region, with authorities vowing further action against militant groups.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports has taken effect, escalating global trade tensions. Canada, the European Union, and Australia condemned the move, with Canada vowing retaliation. Critics warn of rising costs in U.S. industries, while the American Iron and Steel Institute supports the tariffs. Australia’s PM called the decision "entirely unjustified," while stock markets reacted negatively, fearing economic slowdowns. Trump rejected exemptions for allies, insisting on a "no exceptions" policy. Despite concerns, the White House maintains the tariffs will boost domestic manufacturing. Canada’s last-minute concessions temporarily halted further U.S. tariff hikes.