Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a telephonic conversation for the first time since Trump's second inauguration. The leaders discussed strengthening bilateral ties and emphasized their shared commitment to global peace and stability. The call comes a week after Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States. Modi last spoke to Trump on November 7, 2024, after the US Presidential Elections. India was represented at Trump’s inauguration by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who delivered a personal letter from Modi.

Indians, once celebrated as "model immigrants" in the US, are now targets of xenophobic attacks from MAGA supporters. Their presence on H-1B visas has been criticized, with accusations of "taking American jobs" and promoting "casteist attitudes." As online attacks escalate, some fear real-life harassment. The MAGA narrative portrays Indians as job-snatchers, while overlooking their contributions to the US economy. Despite backlash, many Indian-Americans are speaking out, urging awareness of the growing hate, with concerns that digital vitriol could lead to offline violence. The shift in sentiment marks a stark contrast from the community’s previous status in the US.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, attending a dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu, revealed his newfound Indian ancestry, jokingly attributing his love for Indian music to his "Indian DNA." His remarks amused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. Subianto, the chief guest for India's 76th Republic Day, emphasized shared cultural and historical ties between India and Indonesia, noting the influence of Sanskrit in Indonesian life. Praising PM Modi’s leadership, he called his focus on poverty alleviation "inspirational" and expressed hope for stronger bilateral relations. Earlier, Subianto was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Republic Day parade.

At least 14 people were killed and over 80 injured in southern Lebanon as Israeli forces remained after the withdrawal deadline. The Lebanese health ministry confirmed the casualties. The ceasefire deal required Israeli troops and Hezbollah to leave the area, but Israel cited delays in dismantling Hezbollah’s infrastructure. The Lebanese army accused Israel of stalling its deployment. President Joseph Aoun vowed to defend Lebanon’s sovereignty. Hezbollah has not responded but called the extended presence a violation. The recent conflict killed 4,000 people and displaced over a million. Thousands of residents are now returning to unsafe border towns despite warnings.

The United States congratulated India on its 76th Republic Day, emphasizing the nation’s role as the world’s largest democracy. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio lauded the deepening India-US partnership, calling it a "defining relationship of the 21st century." He highlighted the nations' collaboration through the Quad alliance to ensure a "free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific." Rubio also reaffirmed joint efforts in space research and economic ties during recent talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The message underlines the enduring friendship between the two nations and their shared vision for global stability and prosperity.

An Indian couple visiting their children in the US was denied entry at Newark Airport for not having return tickets. The couple, holding B-1/B-2 visitor visas, planned to stay for five months. However, under new 2025 regulations, immigration officials said a return ticket is now mandatory for entry. Despite explaining their situation, the parents were sent back to India. The sudden enforcement of this rule has raised concerns among travellers. Many are now advised to ensure all documentation, including return tickets, is in order before travelling to the US.

The US Supreme Court has approved the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, convicted in connection with the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The decision dismissed his final legal plea against extradition. Indian prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam called it a "big win for India." Rana, a Canadian national of Pakistani origin, is linked to David Coleman Headley, a key planner of the attacks that killed 166 people. Rana is currently held in Los Angeles. India seeks his extradition for forgery and conspiracy charges tied to the attacks. Victims have expressed hope for justice and harsh punishment for the convict.

The US Supreme Court has approved the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a Canadian of Pakistani origin, to India. Rana, 63, is accused of aiding David Coleman Headley in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, which killed 166 people, including six Americans. He allegedly facilitated Headley and Lashkar-e-Taiba's activities, leading to coordinated attacks on Mumbai. Arrested by the FBI in 2009, Rana is currently held in Los Angeles. Despite contesting extradition citing double jeopardy concerns, his appeal was dismissed. Indian authorities seek to prosecute him for his involvement in the attacks, marking a significant step in delivering justice for the victims.

In a major development, the U.S. Supreme Court denied Tahawwur Rana's final petition against extradition to India. The 26/11 Mumbai terror attack convict now faces imminent transfer. Prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam hailed the decision as a "big win for India." Rana, a Canadian national of Pakistani origin, was convicted for aiding David Coleman Headley, the attacks' main conspirator. The U.S. government argued India's charges, including forgery, were distinct from U.S. prosecution. Rana is currently detained in Los Angeles. The Mumbai attacks in 2008 killed 166 people, including 6 Americans, leaving an indelible mark on global counterterrorism.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will co-chair the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit in France from February 10-11, 2025, upon the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron. The summit will bring together global leaders, including representatives from the US, China, and Gulf nations, to discuss AI development, regulation, and combating disinformation. Macron emphasized the critical role of countries like India in shaping AI's future. A dedicated leaders' session and a formal dinner for dignitaries are planned. The summit aims to foster international dialogue on AI governance and innovation.