The Indian Air Force launched "Exercise Aakraman" on Thursday, a major combat drill in the central sector, simulating long-range strikes and precision bombing missions amid rising India-Pakistan tensions post-Pahalgam attack. Led by cutting-edge Rafale jets, the exercise involves high-intensity combat simulations across mountain and ground terrains. Key assets were repositioned from the eastern sector, and top IAF pilots are executing complex sorties, including electronic warfare. The drill aims to boost readiness for deep-strike operations. Senior leadership is closely monitoring the exercise, with similar training planned. This show of strength comes as regional hostilities escalate. (PC: India Today)

Kyiv faced its deadliest Russian assault in nine months as missiles and drones pounded the capital for 11 hours, killing at least 12 and wounding 90. The attack damaged multiple neighborhoods, forcing families into shelters. President Zelenskyy cut short a South Africa visit, calling the bombardment one of Russia’s “most outrageous.” U.S. President Donald Trump issued rare criticism of Putin, urging him to “STOP!” as peace talks remain deadlocked. The Ukrainian military reported over 200 weapons used in the assault. European leaders condemned Moscow, citing the strike as further proof of Russia’s disregard for peace efforts. (PC: AP)

In the aftermath of the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, global leaders have rallied in support of India. On Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, French President Emmanuel Macron, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni personally called Prime Minister Narendra Modi to express their condolences and offer solidarity. The leaders strongly condemned the attack that claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, and assured India of their nations' support in the global fight against terrorism. PM Modi reaffirmed India’s determination to bring the perpetrators to justice. (PC: Reuters)

In a rare show of unity, Muslim-majority nations including Qatar, Jordan, Iraq, and the League of Arab States have strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people in Jammu and Kashmir. In official statements, these countries expressed full solidarity with India, denounced terrorism in all forms, and extended condolences to the victims’ families. The League of Arab States’ New Delhi mission also sent a letter to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, expressing sympathy and urging for peace in the region. The international outpouring of support underscores global condemnation of terrorism and strengthens diplomatic ties with India. (PC: PTI)

In a closed-door all-party meeting on Thursday, the central government admitted to security lapses in the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. Sources revealed that officials acknowledged the Baisaran area was opened without informing security agencies, and no SOP was in place for emergencies. Opposition leaders questioned the delay in response and demanded stricter protocols. Despite sharp exchanges, the meeting concluded with consensus on united action against terrorism. Leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Supriya Sule voiced support for strong countermeasures, while Union Minister Kiren Rijiju confirmed bipartisan solidarity in India’s fight against terror. (PC: PTI)

The Congress party has called for a thorough analysis of intelligence failures and security lapses that led to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists and injuries to 12 others. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has initiated an investigation, identifying the attackers as members of the Lashkar-e-Taiba group. In response, the Indian government has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, closed the Attari–Wagah border, and canceled visas for Pakistani nationals. Security forces have released sketches of the suspects, and a manhunt is underway. The Congress emphasized the need for accountability and measures to prevent future incidents. (PC: Telegraph India)

The Bollywood film Abir Gulaal, featuring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, will not release in India, as per sources from the Centre's Information and Broadcasting Ministry. The decision follows the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, where 25 tourists and a local resident were killed. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) had earlier opposed the film's release, citing strained India-Pakistan relations. Post-attack, opposition intensified, with cinema halls and entertainment bodies advocating for a boycott. Consequently, the ministry has denied the film's release. Both Khan and Kapoor expressed grief over the incident, with Khan condemning the attack and Kapoor stating she was "devastated." (PC: Pinkvilla)

In a decisive show of strength, the Indian Navy launched missiles from INS Surat in the Arabian Sea, coinciding with Pakistan's naval drills. This action follows recent directives from Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, urging military readiness after a terrorist attack in Kashmir. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India's commitment to pursuing terrorists and their supporters. The missile launches serve as a stern warning, asserting India's vigilance over its maritime boundaries. Additionally, orders have been issued to keep Rafale and Sukhoi fighter jets on standby in the Northern Command, signaling India's preparedness to respond to any provocations. Former Air Force officer Group Captain R.K. Das stated, "India is alert and ready to teach Pakistan a lesson." (PC: ForumIAS & Aaj Tak)

In a sharp escalation following the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan on Thursday suspended the Simla Agreement, shut its airspace to Indian carriers, and cancelled all SAARC visas for Indian nationals—except Sikh pilgrims. The Wagah border was sealed, and Indian diplomats ordered to leave by April 30. These retaliatory steps came a day after India’s five-pronged diplomatic response, which included suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and expelling Pakistani envoys. Pakistan termed India's actions as “politically motivated” and threatened consequences. The ongoing standoff has strained already tense ties, with both nations pulling back from key bilateral commitments amid rising public and political outrage. (PC: PTI)

Amid escalating tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan has announced plans to conduct a surface-to-surface missile test off its Karachi coast within its Exclusive Economic Zone on April 24–25. This move comes shortly after India imposed several punitive measures against Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, revoking SAARC visa exemptions, and reducing diplomatic staff. The missile test notification was issued around 9:30 PM IST, coinciding with India's Cabinet Committee on Security meeting in New Delhi. Indian defense agencies are closely monitoring the situation, viewing Pakistan's missile test as a significant development amid the current geopolitical climate. (PC: Al Jazeera & News Arena)