Five Israeli soldiers were killed in an incident in Jabalia, northern Gaza, on Wednesday, marking one of the deadliest incidents since the war began in October. Israeli tank fire mistakenly hit the troops, who had re-entered the town on Monday after previously pulling out. The incident occurred amidst intensified fighting in Jabalia and Rafah, where tens of thousands of civilians have fled since Saturday. The UN reports 600,000 Palestinians have fled Rafah and another 100,000 have been newly displaced in the north, highlighting the escalating humanitarian crisis.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is in critical condition after being shot in a small town north-east of Bratislava. The attack occurred on Wednesday afternoon as Fico greeted people outside a cultural community centre. A man fired five shots at the prime minister before being subdued by bodyguards. Fico underwent surgery for over three hours, and his condition is described as "bad". The defence minister called the shooting an "attack on democracy". The assailant has been detained but not yet identified. The incident has sparked shock and concern among Slovak politicians, including the president.

Yemen's Houthis claim to have targeted a US warship and a vessel named "Destiny" in the Red Sea, aligning with their campaign of attacks to support Palestinians in Gaza. Houthis' military spokesman Yahya Sarea stated they aimed at the American destroyer "Maysun" with naval missiles, while targeting "Destiny" en route to the Israeli port of Eilat. Dates of the attacks were unspecified, and Reuters couldn't independently verify the claims. Continuous Houthi assaults in the Red Sea disrupt global shipping, prompting US and UK strikes on Houthi targets. Fears mount over wider Middle East destabilization amidst ongoing conflicts.

Israeli Prime Minister rejects claims of a "humanitarian catastrophe" in Rafah amidst massive evacuations. Nearly 500,000 people evacuated as clashes intensify during Palestinian Nakba commemoration. US approves $1 billion arms package for Israel despite warnings of prolonged conflict. European Union urges immediate cessation of military operations. Netanyahu asserts successful evacuation efforts, denies humanitarian crisis. Desperate scenes evoke memories of 1948 Nakba. Hamas blames Zionist occupation for ongoing refugee suffering. Netanyahu's statement contrasts with grim realities of urban combat in besieged Gaza.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant opposes Israel taking charge of Gaza after the conflict with Hamas. Gallant insists on avoiding military or civilian rule, emphasizing the need for political solutions involving Palestinians and international cooperation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu focuses on Hamas's defeat before considering governance alternatives. Netanyahu dismisses discussions on Gaza's future as premature while Hamas remains in power. Gallant's stance draws criticism from Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, highlighting divisions within the Israeli government. The differing opinions reflect the complexity of resolving the Gaza conflict and establishing sustainable governance.      

During the Fort Lauderdale Air Show in Florida, two fighter jets narrowly avoided disaster as they clipped wings mid-air during an aerial stunt. Spectators captured the tense moment on video as the jets, part of the Polaris Ghost Squadron, momentarily lost control before regaining stability. An emergency was declared, but both aircraft landed safely, with pilots unharmed. Despite the scare, the show continued, featuring performances by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and other renowned teams. Aviation enthusiasts praised the event's excitement, underscoring the risks and thrills of aerial displays.

Ukraine withdraws troops from several villages in Kharkiv border region following sustained pressure from Russian forces. President Zelensky cancels foreign trips as soldiers struggle to contain cross-border incursion. Moscow claims control of additional settlements, while Kyiv asserts military presence in contested areas. Decision to relocate troops aims to safeguard lives amid ongoing clashes. Despite setbacks, Ukrainian military maintains resistance against Russian advance. Intense fighting reported in Kharkiv region, with Russian forces targeting key locations. Ukraine's intelligence chief notes stabilization of front line amidst escalating tensions.

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announces that laid-off H-1B visa holders in the US can legally extend their stay beyond 60 days. Options include applying for a new employer, changing visa status, or adjusting visa status. Timely actions during the grace period ensure extended stay, while inaction may require departure within 60 days. H-1B non-immigrants can work for a new employer upon filing a new H-1B petition. USCIS clarifies misconceptions amid tech industry layoffs, affecting thousands, including Indians. Efforts continue to support legal stay for affected workers amidst ongoing challenges in the job market.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is battling for his life after being shot multiple times in an apparent assassination attempt. The 59-year-old populist leader was critically injured when an unidentified gunman opened fire outside a cultural center in Handlova where Fico was meeting supporters. The suspect was swiftly detained by police. Fico sustained life-threatening wounds to his abdomen and underwent emergency surgery, but his condition remains perilous. The brazen attack has sparked fears of political instability and violence in the run-up to European Parliament elections. As Slovakia reels, authorities are investigating the motive behind the audacious attempt on the PM's life.

In an interview with Chinese media, Russian President Vladimir Putin signaled openness to negotiations over the Ukraine conflict on the eve of his visit to Beijing. "We are open to dialogue on Ukraine, but such negotiations must take into account the interests of all countries involved, including ours," Putin stated. His remarks come as Russian forces intensify their offensive in northeastern Ukraine's Kharkiv region. Putin blamed the West for stalled previous talks, while praising China's peace plan that would allow Russia to retain territorial gains. The two-day trip highlights Moscow's deepening ties with Beijing amid tensions with the West over the invasion.