Pakistani Olympic gold medallist Arshad Nadeem’s Instagram account has been blocked in India following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26. The action comes amidst rising tensions, as India suspended all visas for Pakistani nationals. Nadeem, who set an Olympic record with a 92.97m throw in Paris 2024, recently declined an invitation to the NC Classic by Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra. Chopra faced backlash for the invite, issued before the attack, and defended his decision as a gesture of sporting respect. He condemned the hate directed at him and his family, stressing patriotism and the spirit of athletics. (PC: PTI)

Following India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, former Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari defended his controversial remark that “if water is stopped, blood will flow.” He emphasized the cultural importance of the Indus River to Pakistan, particularly Sindh. Indian Union Minister CR Paatil challenged Bhutto to visit India if he had the courage. Pakistan’s Deputy PM Ishaq Dar warned any water blockage would be seen as an attack on Pakistan’s people and economy, escalating regional tensions. (PC: ANI)  

In response to a suspected drone attack on the Liberian-flagged chemical tanker MV Chem Pluto, the Indian Navy has heightened security in the Arabian Sea. The ship, en route to New Mangalore port from Al Jubail, Saudi Arabia, was hit approximately 217 nautical miles off the coast of Porbandar, Gujarat. While no casualties were reported, the Navy has deployed three guided missile destroyers—INS Mormugao, INS Kochi, and INS Kolkata—to monitor the area. Surveillance by P-8I aircraft continues, and coordination with the Coast Guard ensures increased maritime vigilance. (PC: Gcaptain)

The Supreme Court has dismissed a plea seeking a judicial probe into the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, including foreign tourists. The court strongly criticised the petitioners, saying, "Be responsible before filing such PILs. You have some duty towards the country." Justice Surya Kant added, "This is not the time... each citizen has joined hands against terrorism. Don’t make any prayer which can demoralise forces." The bench said judges are not experts in terror investigations and refused the request to appoint a retired judge. The court emphasised unity and support for security forces during this sensitive period. (PC: News18)

Sir David Attenborough, 98, speaks about nearing the end of his life in a new documentary called Ocean. The film shows the beauty of the sea and the damage it faces today. Attenborough recalls how people once believed the ocean should be controlled, but now knows it must be protected. He calls the ocean “our greatest asset” in the fight against climate change. The film is full of hope, showing how the sea can heal if cared for. Ocean releases globally in cinemas on May 8 and will later stream on National Geographic, Disney Plus, and Hulu. (PC: Metro)

The US and Ukraine have signed a new natural resources deal aimed at helping Ukraine recover from war damage. Both countries will create a joint fund, equally shared, to support military aid and rebuild Ukraine. In return, the US will get future access to Ukrainian minerals like titanium and graphite. Ukrainian adviser Yurki Sak said the deal could lead to “a just and lasting peace.” The agreement follows months of talks, after a delayed signing in February. Many Ukrainians are hopeful, though some still fear losing US support. Meanwhile, a Russian drone strike in Odesa killed two people overnight. (PS: BBC)

In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists, security forces have foiled a major terror plot near the Indo-Pak border in Amritsar. A joint operation by BSF and Punjab Police led to the recovery of three pistols, six magazines, 50 live rounds, and two grenades near Bharopal village. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given the armed forces full freedom to respond, as tensions escalate with continued ceasefire violations and heightened security. The NIA has taken charge of the probe, and airspace restrictions against Pakistan are set to severely impact PIA operations, particularly on northern routes. (PC: India Today)

The UK is experiencing its hottest start to May on record, with temperatures expected to soar to 29°C in the South East, possibly touching 30°C—breaking the previous record of 27.4°C set in Lossiemouth in 1990. This makes Britain temporarily warmer than popular holiday destinations like Gran Canaria, Rome, and Athens. However, forecasters warn the heat won’t last, as temperatures are set to drop over the weekend. A large wildfire in the Peak District, fueled by dry conditions, is being tackled by firefighters. Despite the warmth, the Met Office states it likely won't meet the criteria for an official heatwave. (PC: PA)

NIA investigations into the Pahalgam terror attack reveal the terrorists had conducted reconnaissance at three other locations—Aru Valley, Betab Valley, and an amusement park—before targeting Baisaran Valley. Their plans were foiled due to heavy security presence. The attackers stayed in Baisaran two days prior to the April 22 assault that killed 26 tourists, including one Nepali national. Four overground workers aided in planning, with 20 identified and over 180 detained so far. Victims’ families say terrorists targeted Hindus after verifying religious identity. The brutal act has intensified tensions in the region, prompting widespread security crackdowns and diplomatic fallout. (PC: PTI)

In response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists, India has closed its airspace to all Pakistan-owned and operated aircraft, including military planes. The decision mirrors Pakistan’s earlier move to ban Indian flights and comes amid rising Indo-Pak tensions. A NOTAM issued by New Delhi confirmed the airspace ban remains in effect until May 23. The move severely impacts Pakistani carriers, forcing detours around Indian territory for Southeast Asia and Oceania-bound flights, increasing fuel and time costs. India has also suspended diplomatic ties, border posts, and the Indus Waters Treaty in a series of escalating countermeasures. (PC: NDTV)