Families of Israeli hostages, taken by Hamas in the Supernova music festival attack, endure anguishing waits as negotiations stall. Rachel Goldberg-Polin, mother of Hersh, marks 155 days since her son's abduction, advocating tirelessly for his return and that of 130 others. Despite fading attention, she remains steadfast, believing in their release. However, with grim realities emerging, including evidence of abuse and executions, families demand urgent action from leaders. As hope wavers, they rally in Tel Aviv, their protest echoing the desperate plea: "Deal refusal = Hostages' death sentence."          

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued the ninth summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with the money laundering case related to the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy. Kejriwal was granted bail after appearing before the court on Saturday, where he was directed to furnish ₹15,000 for each complaint case. The court also instructed the ED to provide documents related to the complaints to Kejriwal. Meanwhile, BRS leader K Kavitha, accused of involvement in the 'South Group' kickback scandal, has been remanded in ED custody till March 23.      

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for its robust crackdown on corruption during his speech at the India Today Conclave 2024. He emphasized the government's "zero tolerance towards corruption" and asserted the agency's independence in combating graft. PM Modi highlighted a significant increase in cases, seizures, and asset attachments under his administration compared to previous years. Criticizing the opposition, he accused them of baseless criticism and stated that while they indulge in dreams, his government delivers guarantees. The remarks underscored the ongoing political rhetoric ahead of the upcoming elections.

Former President Donald Trump stirred controversy at an Ohio rally, labeling the upcoming presidential election as pivotal, warning of a potential "bloodbath" if he isn't elected. His remarks prompted a swift response from President Joe Biden's campaign, denouncing Trump's rhetoric as inciting political violence. Biden, speaking at a dinner in Washington, emphasized the threats to democracy, highlighting the persistence of misinformation about the 2020 election. With both candidates securing their party nominations, the stage is set for a rematch. Trump continues to campaign on immigration reform, while Biden stresses the importance of safeguarding democracy against extremist threats.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced national polls in Jammu & Kashmir, with assembly elections scheduled after the Lok Sabha polls, citing security challenges. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar stated logistical difficulties in providing security to candidates during concurrent elections. J&K-based parties expressed disappointment over the decision, emphasizing the conducive environment for parliamentary elections. The region, which hasn't seen assembly elections for a decade, will witness polling across five phases for five Lok Sabha seats and one UT seat. The move has drawn criticism and concerns from political figures regarding inclusion in the democratic process.      

Iceland has declared a state of emergency as a powerful volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula threatens the town of Grindavik. Lava has reached the town's eastern defenses, prompting evacuations, including from the nearby Blue Lagoon tourist attraction. Geophysicists report this eruption as the most forceful yet, with lava tongues advancing west and south. Concerns arise over potential contact between lava and seawater, which could trigger dangerous gases and explosions. With Iceland experiencing its seventh eruption since 2021, experts warn of a new volcanic era in the region, potentially lasting decades or even centuries.

In a swift and coordinated effort, the Indian Navy successfully rescued 17 crew members from the hijacked merchant ship MV Ruen, located approximately 1,400 nautical miles from the Indian coast. Employing a combination of maritime patrol aircraft, frontline ships, and unmanned aerial vehicles, the Navy compelled 35 pirates aboard the vessel to surrender. The operation, spanning 40 hours, concluded with the safe evacuation of the crew without any injuries reported. This decisive action demonstrates the Navy's commitment to combating piracy and ensuring the safety of maritime activities in the region.

Two Indian men, Hemil Ashvinbhai Mangukiya (23) from Surat, Gujarat, and Mohammad Asfan (31) from Hyderabad, Telangana, were killed on the Russia-Ukraine border. Initially hired as helpers for the Russian Army, they were coerced into fighting. Asfan reportedly died in an explosion on January 27 in Donetsk, according to papers from Russian authorities. Their bodies were repatriated to Delhi on March 16 and subsequently flown to their respective hometowns for final rites. The incident sheds light on the exploitation of non-combatants in the conflict zone.

Russia accuses Ukraine of increasing "terrorist activities" during its presidential election to solicit more aid and weapons from the West. The Russian Foreign Ministry alleges that Ukraine aims to impress its Western supporters by showing aggression. One incident cited involves a Ukrainian drone reportedly targeting a voting station in Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia, with no confirmed casualties. These claims lack independent verification. The accusations come amidst ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, highlighting the complex dynamics at play in the region.

An Indian-origin Kashmiri Pandit family tragically perished in a suspicious fire in Ontario, Canada. Rajiv Warikoo, 51, his wife Shilpa Kotha, 47, and their 16-year-old daughter Mahek were identified as the victims. The blaze occurred on March 7 in Brampton, engulfing their home on Big Sky Way and Van Kirk Drive. Peel Police confirmed the family's residency at the location. Constable Taryn Young labeled the fire as suspicious. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the tragedy.