The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has finalized the selection process for beneficiaries of H1B visas for the fiscal year 2025. Following the closure of the initial sign-up period on March 25, USCIS conducted a random lottery and has begun notifying selected applicants through their 'myUSCIS' accounts. Despite a brief technical glitch, USCIS assured potential petitioners of their eligibility confirmation. With Indian professionals historically dominating H1B visa recipients, USCIS anticipates a decrease in applications this year due to intensified fraud prevention efforts. USCIS also announced changes to filing locations and emphasized a fully electronic application process for efficiency and integrity enhancement.

A tragic bus crash in South Africa's Limpopo province claimed the lives of 45 Easter worshippers on their way to a conference. The bus, carrying pilgrims from Botswana's capital, Gaborone, to a church event, plunged off a cliff in the Mamatlakala mountain pass between Mokopane and Marken. The only survivor, an eight-year-old girl, was airlifted to a hospital. The cause of the crash, which resulted in the bus catching fire, is under investigation. Efforts are underway to recover the bodies, with some burnt beyond recognition, while the South African government plans to repatriate the victims to Botswana.          

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott responded to racist remarks, asserting, 'They don't have the courage to say the N-word,' during an interview addressing right-wing social media attacks following the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse. Scott condemns attempts to link the tragedy to immigration, honoring immigrant workers' contributions. Despite conspiracy theories circulating, authorities confirm no terrorism involvement. Criticism mounts against derogatory posts, with the White House condemning attacks on Scott amidst the city's mourning.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has unanimously ruled for Israel to take immediate action to combat famine in Gaza, amidst worsening conditions for Palestinians. Following South Africa's case alleging state-led genocide, the ICJ reaffirmed January's measures, mandating Israel to guarantee unhindered provision of food, water, electricity, and medical aid. The court emphasized the necessity of increasing land crossing points and keeping them open for sustained assistance. Israel must submit a report within a month outlining compliance with the ruling. This verdict underscores the urgent need to alleviate the humanitarian crisis gripping Gaza.

Sam Bankman-Fried, known as the "Crypto King," receives a 25-year prison term for his involvement in a fraud case totaling $8 billion. US District Judge Lewis Kaplan rejects Bankman-Fried's assertions of no customer losses and accuses him of deceit during trial testimony. The former FTX CEO, convicted on seven counts of fraud and conspiracy, faces the aftermath of FTX's 2022 collapse, deemed one of the largest financial frauds in US history. Despite Bankman-Fried's apology to FTX colleagues, the judge emphasizes the significant losses suffered by FTX customers and investors, underscoring the gravity of the crime in the cryptocurrency realm.  

UN's Volker Türk raises concerns over Gaza's humanitarian crisis, suggesting Israel may be using starvation as a weapon of war. Türk's remarks follow a UN-backed report detailing Gaza's impending famine, blaming Israel's restrictions on aid. Israel denies allegations, citing aid deliveries and blaming Hamas for distribution issues. Meanwhile, aid efforts intensify, including US Navy's plans to build a sea pier for relief. Türk urges accountability for all sides in the conflict. As Gaza braces for famine, dire scenes emerge from hospitals, underscoring the urgent need for humanitarian action amidst escalating tensions.

Ana Julia, hailed as one of the world's largest snakes, was discovered lifeless in Brazil's Amazon rainforest, just weeks after its groundbreaking unveiling. Believed to measure 26 feet and weighing approximately 440 pounds, the northern green anaconda garnered international attention during filming for the National Geographic Disney+ series 'Pole to Pole.' Speculation arises over the cause of death, with initial reports suggesting a gunshot wound. However, Dutch researcher Professor Freek Vonk emphasized ongoing investigations. With potential implications for biodiversity, experts lament the loss of this colossal serpent, highlighting its significance in the ecological landscape of the Amazon.

Palestinians faced difficulties retrieving US aid parcels airdropped by the Pentagon off Gaza's northern coast. Amid parachute malfunctions, three of the 18 packages plunged into the sea, prompting a rush towards the shore. Footage captured the chaotic scene as people scrambled to collect aid from both land and water. While casualties were reported, exact numbers remain unclear. This event adds to concerns over effective aid distribution in conflict zones like Gaza. Meanwhile, humanitarian agencies continue to advocate for improved access to essential supplies to alleviate the region's pressing needs.

Two bodies, identified as Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, were recovered from the Patapsco River after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore. Both men were construction workers, among six missing. Rescue efforts shifted to recovery due to harsh conditions. The tragedy halts traffic between DC, Baltimore, Philly, and NYC, impacting trade and economy. The Port of Baltimore, a major employer, faces uncertainty. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg underscores the bridge's importance, emphasizing the economic stakes. The incident's toll on trade and employment looms as officials grapple with the aftermath.

Divers recovered two bodies from a submerged red pickup truck following a Baltimore bridge collapse. The incident occurred when a ship struck the bridge, plunging eight construction workers into the water. Four workers remain missing and are presumed dead. Salvage crews are addressing hazardous materials, while investigators work to determine the cause. The victims, including Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, hailed from Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. Challenges persist in the search due to debris, with authorities pledging resources for closure to the victims' families amid concerns over the impact on global supply chains.