Since April 30, 2024, Russia has accused the United States of double standards concerning the International Criminal Court (ICC) and Israel. Russia criticized the U.S. for opposing the ICC's probe into Israel while supporting a warrant for President Putin's arrest. The ICC investigates Hamas' October 7 attack and Israel's military actions in Gaza. The U.S. denied ICC jurisdiction over Israel but backed the warrant against Putin. Russia sees this as hypocritical and questions the U.S.'s stance on the ICC's legitimacy. The Kremlin dismissed the warrant against Putin, arguing Russia isn't an ICC signatory. Israel, not an ICC member, faces concerns over potential warrants for its leaders.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledges to invade the Gaza city of Rafah, where many Palestinians seek shelter, as cease-fire negotiations progress. Amid warnings from the US and others against risking civilian lives, Netanyahu insists on destroying Hamas' battalions in Rafah. Talks, facilitated by the US, Egypt, and Qatar, aim to secure the release of hostages and avert further conflict. However, Netanyahu's nationalist allies pressure him not to agree to a deal that may prevent an invasion. The war, sparked by a deadly raid, has claimed thousands of lives and displaced many in Gaza, escalating humanitarian concerns.

Canada announces a reduction in off-campus work hours for international students from 40 to 24 per week, affecting a significant number of Indian students. Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, highlights the need to prioritize studies amid a surge in international student enrolments, including over 300,000 Indian students. The move follows the end of a temporary policy allowing students to work more than 20 hours weekly during the Covid-19 pandemic. Recent studies show academic performance decline beyond 24 hours of work per week, impacting Indian students who often rely on part-time work to support their studies.      

Rajasthan Royals' captain, Sanju Samson, secures a spot in India's T20 World Cup squad following his outstanding performance in the IPL 2024. Samson, known for his consistent batting, edges out competition from KL Rahul and Jitesh Sharma for the second wicketkeeper's position. His impressive form, leading RR to 8 wins in 9 matches, earns him recognition. Former Australia captain, Aaron Finch, praises Samson's maturity and leadership. India's squad for the tournament includes Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Rishabh Pant, with Samson set to contribute to the team's success.

Former Miss Ecuador contestant, Landy Párraga Goyburo, 23, was tragically killed in a shocking daylight shooting inside a restaurant in Quevedo. CCTV footage captured two gunmen targeting her as she stood with her partner, firing multiple shots before fleeing. Párraga's social media fame and mention in an organized crime case add complexity to the investigation. Police have launched a murder probe, while her partner's condition remains unclear. The incident has sparked outrage and sorrow, highlighting the ongoing issue of violence in the region.            

Congress refrains from naming candidates for Amethi and Raebareli constituencies in the latest Lok Sabha election list, keeping the suspense alive. The party announces four candidates, including Raj Babbar and Anand Sharma, for other seats. Speculation rises over potential candidates, with protesters urging for a candidate from the Gandhi family in Amethi. With nomination filing deadline nearing, anticipation grows over potential candidates, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Raebareli, previously held by Sonia Gandhi, remains under scrutiny for potential candidacy announcements.

HD Revanna, a leader of the Janata Dal (Secular), rejects accusations against his son, Prajwal Revanna, concerning a "sex video" case. He asserts that the circulated videos are part of a plot and denies their recent origin, stating they are "five years old." Following sexual assault claims, Prajwal is suspended from JD(S) and Karnataka Police initiate a FIR against HD Revanna. The Congress-led government establishes a Special Investigation Team to examine the matter. Amidst ongoing investigations, Prajwal's political future as a BJP-JD(S) alliance candidate remains uncertain.

Bengaluru sees a surge in beer sales as temperatures soar across Karnataka. In just two weeks, 23.5 lakh carton boxes of beer have been sold, already reaching 61% of last year's total for April. The excise department notes a 30% increase in sales compared to previous years, attributing the rise to rising temperatures and concurrent Lok Sabha elections. Chilled beer becomes the preferred choice to beat the heat, with ample stock to meet the growing demand. The Indian Meteorological Department forecasts prolonged heatwaves, especially in central and southern India, intensifying the need for cooling beverages.

Two individuals sustained injuries in a confrontation involving Maldivians and Indians near Male, Maldives, leading to the arrest of a Maldivian. The incident occurred near Hulhumale's Central Park on Monday night. The detained individual, confirmed as Maldivian, was apprehended by the police. Details of the injured parties were not disclosed, but they received treatment at Hulhumale hospital and were discharged. Authorities stated that the altercation erupted within the park premises and investigations are ongoing.            

Houthi rebels from Yemen strike again, targeting Greek and US ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. At least seven attacks have been recorded since April 24, raising concerns about maritime safety. The US military reports intercepting drones and missiles aimed at vessels. The rebels claim solidarity with Palestinians, alleging ship targets had links to Israel. In response, the US and UK have launched strikes on Houthi positions. The attacks disrupt global trade routes, prompting intensified security measures to safeguard shipping in the region.