The IMF issues a warning, citing a high risk of "debt distress" for the Maldives, which extensively borrowed from China and shifted allegiance from India. Urgent policy adjustments are advised to address elevated fiscal deficits and public debt. Despite economic recovery post-COVID, uncertainties persist, with risks tilted downward. Pro-China President Mohamed Muizzu, expressing gratitude for China's assistance, emphasizes the need for defense amid a request for Indian troops' departure. Former President Yameen's heavy borrowing from Beijing has left a significant debt burden. The IMF underscores the critical need for policy changes to avert prolonged financial challenges.

UK PM Rishi Sunak draws backlash for making a political jab about transgender issues directed at Labour leader Keir Starmer during Prime Minister's Questions. The comment occurred while Esther Ghey, mother of murdered trans teen Brianna Ghey, attended the session. Sunak accused Starmer of breaking promises on defining a woman, prompting criticism for insensitivity. Despite calls for an apology, Sunak's press secretary denies the remark being transphobic. Opposition politicians condemn the incident, with Labour's Ben Bradshaw calling Sunak's comments "disgusting." Stonewall charity demands an unreserved apology from the prime minister.

Dentists in England's underserved regions are offered a £20,000 bonus by the UK government to address NHS dental care shortages. The plan also includes increased payments for new patient intake and teeth-cleaning in schools. Criticized by dental leaders and Labour, the "recovery plan" aims to encourage dentists to work in areas with limited access to NHS care. The British Dental Association calls it "deckchair rearranging." The government hopes for 1.5 million additional treatments in the next year. Critics argue the plan falls short of addressing the broader challenges in NHS dentistry.

Hamas leaders face internal divisions as talks for a temporary truce with Israel unfold. Gaza's leader, Yahya Sinwar, reportedly seeks a pause in hostilities, while exiled leader Ismail Haniyeh demands more concessions for a complete Israeli withdrawal. Amid conflicting messages, Qatar and US officials express cautious optimism after Hamas responds positively to a proposed deal. The sticking point revolves around the release of hostages, with Israel demanding all be returned, alive or dead. Political survival considerations by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and internal tensions within Hamas add complexity to the negotiations, prolonging the suffering for Gazans and Israeli hostages' families.

Explosions heard near London's Old Bailey resulted in staff evacuation after black smoke poured from a nearby building. Around 25 firefighters responded to an incident at an electrical substation, causing power outages in the area. The London Fire Brigade is on the scene, with trials postponed. The cause of the incident is unknown. Recorder of London Mark Lucraft KC mentioned hearing the explosion, stating it's too early to determine when the courthouse might reopen. This follows a recent incident of falling debris, prompting maintenance acknowledgment and budget allocation for the historic courthouse.

A bipartisan agreement in the US, backed by the White House, brings relief to H-1B visa holders and families. The deal ensures automatic work authorization for approximately 100,000 H-4 visa holders, including spouses and children of specific H-1B visa holders. Additionally, around 250,000 children facing aging-out issues while awaiting their parents' green cards will benefit. This development is welcomed by Indian tech workers, aiding those awaiting Green Cards for their spouses and children to avoid deportation risks. President Biden underscores the importance of immigration system reform for national security while urging swift Congressional approval.

Qatar confirms Hamas has responded positively to a truce proposal amid US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's regional tour. Hamas acknowledged delivering its response to mediators in Paris. Talks continue as Blinken aims for a lasting ceasefire. The ongoing conflict, which started in October, has claimed over 1,160 lives and resulted in widespread destruction. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejects Hamas's demands for a prisoner exchange. As violence escalates, humanitarian concerns grow, with thousands displaced and urgent aid needed. International efforts persist to broker peace amidst escalating tensions in the region.

At least five individuals lost their lives, and 31 others sustained injuries in a rain-induced landslide that struck a mining village in Davao de Oro province, Mindanao island. The landslide engulfed two buses and houses, trapping numerous individuals. Despite eight passengers managing to escape through windows, the fate of those trapped remains uncertain. Rescue efforts were impeded by limited visibility and intermittent slides, compounded by an earthquake following the incident. Military personnel have been deployed to aid in rescue operations, while 285 families from affected villages have been evacuated. The tragedy underscores the persistent threat of landslides in the region amidst ongoing heavy rainfall.

The Houthi rebel group, backed by Iran, claimed responsibility for firing missiles at two ships in the Red Sea - one American and one British vessel. The attacks occurred near Yemen's ports, causing minor damage. The US military confirmed the incidents, stating that six anti-ship ballistic missiles were launched by the Houthis, with one intercepted. While the exact cause of the explosions is unclear, both vessels, including one headed to India, sustained no injuries or significant damage. The Houthis have been targeting commercial ships in the Red Sea since October, citing solidarity with Palestinians amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Prince Harry has flown from California to the United Kingdom to be with his father, King Charles III, following the monarch's cancer diagnosis. While Harry visited his father at Clarence House, Prince William is stepping up to undertake more royal engagements to support his father during his recovery. William, balancing duties to the monarchy and family, will also manage responsibilities at home as Kate Middleton recovers from surgery. Despite hopes for Charles' full recovery, details about his cancer type and stage remain undisclosed. Charles, now back at Clarence House for outpatient treatments, will continue state business while postponing public duties.