Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to halt military activities in Gaza during Ramadan, as Hamas considers a truce proposal including a prisoner-hostage exchange. U.S. President Joe Biden welcomed the move, warning of Israel's risk of losing international support due to Palestinian casualties. The proposal aims to repair infrastructure in Gaza and allow aid into the region. Biden hopes for a ceasefire soon, with talks ongoing for a two-state solution. The draft suggests a 10-to-1 prisoner exchange ratio and includes the release of women, children, the elderly, and the sick. Mediators are working to prevent further violence in Rafah.

Bitcoin reached a two-year high, hitting $57,036, as big players entered the market. This surge was fueled by MicroStrategy's disclosure of buying 3,000 bitcoins worth $155 million. Additionally, the approval of bitcoin ETFs in the US boosted demand and trading volumes, leading to a spike in crypto-linked firms' stocks. Ether also saw gains, surpassing $3,200 for the first time since 2022, reaching $3,275. The market's bullish sentiment is driven by limited supply and strong demand, particularly from US ETFs.

Deadly bird flu detected for the first time in mainland Antarctica, posing a threat to penguin colonies. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza virus found in dead skua seabirds near Argentine base. H5N1 strain confirmed, with potential to spread rapidly among densely packed penguin colonies. Argentine and Spanish scientists collaborate on testing, confirming virus presence. Concerns raised about virus impact on Antarctic bird populations.

Sweden's parliament approved joining NATO, ending 200 years of neutrality. Hungary's vote cleared the final hurdle, with pressure from NATO allies and a visit by Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson. The move follows an arms deal between Hungary and Sweden. White House supports Sweden's accession. Russia's invasion of Ukraine spurred Sweden's security policy shift. Sweden's entry into NATO, along with Finland, expands the alliance and strengthens defense planning in Northern Europe. Sweden gains security and NATO gains a serious and capable member.

European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, discussed the possibility of sending Western troops to Ukraine amid Russia's ongoing invasion. Macron stated that while there's no consensus yet, sending troops is not ruled out in the future. The meeting aimed to show unwavering support for Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression and to bolster collective security in Europe. Concerns were raised about potential Russian attacks on other countries like Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, and Poland. Ukraine's President Zelensky urged leaders to prevent Putin from expanding his aggression. Recent bilateral agreements between Ukraine and France, Germany, and the UK signal long-term support.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated at a global summit that the world no longer finds it surprising to witness India's achievements, considering it the new normal. Modi emphasized the growing trust in India as the country's most significant recognition. Criticizing past governments, he highlighted the shift from an era of hopelessness, asserting that India now decides and implements decisions swiftly. In the past decade, India has risen to become one of the world's top five economies. Modi concluded that the world acknowledges India's ability to deliver efficiently and on time.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge announces the "Indiramma Universal Basic Income Support," pledging ₹5,000 per month for impoverished families in Andhra Pradesh. Kharge emphasizes the party's commitment, highlighting a direct transfer to the bank accounts of women in these families. During an address at Nyay Sadhana Sabha, Kharge criticizes Prime Minister Narendra Modi, questioning unfulfilled promises and alleging support for crony capitalists. He urges unity against what he calls "fascist forces" and claims Modi fears the Congress party. The income support initiative aims to benefit the underprivileged, small traders, and farmers, as stated by Kharge.

A freight train in northern India rolled unmanned for about 45 miles, reaching speeds up to 46 mph, captured in a viral video. No injuries occurred as emergency brakes and track stones halted the train's journey from Kathua to Hoshiarpur. The pilot and assistant left for unknown reasons, leading to the unmanned ride. Gravity-assisted diversion onto an uphill path aided in stopping. Four suspended, high-level inquiry underway at Kathua Railway Station. India's vast rail network, over 160 years old, faces occasional incidents. Last June, a deadly collision in Odisha claimed 275 lives.

Uttar Pradesh Police resorted to cane-charging a frenzied crowd during Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff's stunt event in Lucknow's Hussainabad. Chaos erupted as fans scrambled for film merchandise thrown by the Bollywood duo, breaking barricades. Videos of the incident went viral, showing police intervention near the Clock Tower. While organizers claim no injuries, locals report some casualties. The actors left abruptly, and police assert control was quickly restored. Heritage enthusiasts express concern over such events at historic sites, citing potential damage. The next hearing for the case is scheduled for March 1.

The Supreme Court issued a stern warning to the government, emphasizing that "women cannot be left out," regarding the denial of a Permanent Commission to women officers in the Indian Coast Guard. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud stated, "If you do not do it, we will do it. So, have a look at that." The court rejected functionality arguments, asserting such reasoning doesn't hold water in 2024. The hearing stems from a plea by a woman Coast Guard officer, with the next session scheduled for March 1. The court previously criticized the Coast Guard's "patriarchal attitude" and urged alignment with Navy and Army policies.