Israel has agreed to a U.S. proposal to extend the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire through Ramadan and Passover. The plan includes releasing half of the remaining hostages on the first day and initiating talks for a permanent truce. However, Hamas has rejected this proposal, insisting on negotiating the second phase of the ceasefire, which aims for a complete Israeli withdrawal and lasting peace. In response, Israel has halted all humanitarian aid to Gaza, a move Hamas deems as "cheap extortion" and a violation of previous agreements.     

Israel has halted all humanitarian aid to Gaza after the expiration of phase one of the ceasefire deal. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office cited Hamas’s refusal to accept a US-backed six-week ceasefire extension. Hamas condemned the move as “blackmail” and urged international pressure on Israel. The ceasefire, in effect since January 19, saw the release of hostages and prisoners but stalled on phase two negotiations. Hamas demands guarantees of Israel’s troop withdrawal and further exchanges. Netanyahu insists no ceasefire will continue without hostage releases. The US proposal includes phased releases and negotiations, but Israel warns of consequences if Hamas refuses. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens as tensions escalate.

A suicide bomb blast during Friday prayers at the Jamia Haqqania seminary in Akora Khattak, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan, resulted in the deaths of five individuals, including prominent cleric Hamid ul Haq. The attack occurred a day before Ramadan. Hamid ul Haq, leader of a faction of the Jamiat-e-Ulema Islam party, was the son of Maulana Samiul Haq, known as “the father of the Taliban,” who was assassinated in 2018. The seminary has historically been a training ground for the Afghan Taliban. The explosion took place in the first row of worshippers just behind the imam. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is hosting a special defense summit in London with leaders from Europe, Canada, and Turkey to address the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. This initiative follows a contentious meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which ended abruptly, jeopardizing a proposed minerals deal and raising concerns about continued U.S. military support for Ukraine. European leaders are seeking security guarantees, such as air cover, from Washington as part of any potential peace agreement with Russia. Starmer, who recently announced the largest increase in defense spending since the Cold War, aims to encourage European nations to bolster their defense capabilities independently of U.S. support. The summit seeks to solidify a lasting peace and ensure Ukraine's future sovereignty and security.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy received a warm welcome from UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Downing Street, following a tense encounter with U.S. President Donald Trump. The leaders discussed bolstering support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. Starmer reaffirmed the UK's unwavering commitment, stating, "We stand with you, with Ukraine, for as long as it may take." Zelenskyy expressed gratitude, acknowledging the UK's steadfast support. This meeting precedes a summit in London, where European and NATO leaders will deliberate on enhancing defense aid to Ukraine and addressing Europe's role in ensuring Ukrainian sovereignty and security. The discussions aim to fortify collective efforts toward a lasting peace in the region.

Israel has accepted a U.S. proposal for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza during Ramadan and Passover, as announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office. The plan, presented by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, stipulates that half of the hostages held in Gaza, both alive and deceased, will be released on the first day of the ceasefire. The remaining hostages are to be freed upon reaching a permanent truce. This proposal follows the expiration of the initial ceasefire phase, which began on January 19 and facilitated the exchange of 33 Israeli hostages and five Thais for approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. While Israel has agreed to the extension, Hamas has rejected this formulation, advocating instead for immediate negotiations on a permanent ceasefire. Negotiations continue, with mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. involved, but a lasting resolution remains elusive.

Protests erupted at Tesla dealerships nationwide as demonstrators opposed CEO Elon Musk's role in President Trump's administration, particularly his leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which aims to reduce federal spending and workforce. Critics argue these actions undermine congressional authority and primarily benefit Musk. The "Tesla Takedown" movement has organized over 100 protests, urging boycotts of Tesla products and stock sales to economically impact Musk. Notably, nine individuals were arrested at a New York City Tesla dealership protest. Some Tesla vehicles have been vandalized, raising concerns about rising antisemitism. Despite these events, Musk's net worth remains substantial, estimated at $359 billion.

  Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appeared visibly emotional during his meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, reflecting the immense strain of Ukraine’s ongoing war with Russia. The meeting emphasized Britain’s unwavering support, with Starmer reaffirming military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. Zelenskyy expressed deep gratitude for the UK’s aid, highlighting the critical role of international support in Ukraine’s resistance. The encounter underscored the human toll of the conflict and the urgent need for sustained global backing. As the war continues, further discussions on military aid and economic assistance are expected between Ukraine and its key allies.    [Video Courtesy: X/@BBCBreakfast]

A tragic accident in Bolivia claimed the lives of at least 37 people when two passenger buses collided head-on. The crash occurred on a major highway, with authorities reporting that many passengers suffered severe injuries. Emergency responders rushed to the scene to provide medical assistance and transport the injured to nearby hospitals. The cause of the accident is under investigation, though preliminary reports suggest possible driver fatigue or poor road conditions. This incident highlights ongoing concerns over road safety in Bolivia, where fatal traffic accidents are common due to challenging terrain and inadequate enforcement of safety regulations.  

Tens of thousands of Serbian students gathered in Nis on Saturday for an 18-hour anti-corruption rally, demanding justice and reforms following the November 2024 collapse of a train station canopy that killed 15 people. The protests, which have been ongoing since the tragedy, criticize the government's corruption and its handling of public safety. Students emphasize the need for institutions that serve citizens' interests, not political agendas. While President Aleksandar Vucic dismissed the protests, the movement continues to gain momentum, with the next major demonstration scheduled in Belgrade on March 15.