NEWS ARTICLES

Trump warns Hamas, Gaza ‘you are dead’ if hostages not freed

In a new development, President Donald Trump has warned Hamas that there will be dire repercussions if the hostages held in Gaza are not released. This demand coincides with continuing talks and a precarious ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

President Trump's special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, stressed that Hamas must disarm and leave Gaza for any ceasefire deal to be successful. He claimed that as long as Israel is threatened by Hamas's armed branch, peace will not be possible. Witkoff is presently in Qatar, negotiating the release of hostages and advancing the truce.

Israel has responded to the crisis by formulating fresh military plans to exert pressure on Hamas to free the remaining hostages. These tactics include obstructing supplies and goods, turning off utilities, carrying out airstrikes, carrying out tactical operations, and maybe re-entering Gaza with a larger military presence. The Israeli public is in favour of taking more steps to guarantee the captives' safe return.

Additionally, the Trump administration has shown a desire to hold direct talks with Hamas, a move that has alarmed Israeli officials. President Trump's hostage envoy, Adam Boehler, disclosed that Hamas offered a five to ten-year truce in return for several compromises, such as disarming and freeing all captives. Israeli officials have criticised this proposal, claiming that direct negotiations with Hamas compromise Israel's negotiating position. 

The international community keeps a careful eye on the situation in the hopes of a peaceful conclusion that guarantees the safety of all hostages and improves the likelihood of enduring peace in the area.

PM Modi Receives Mauritius' Highest Award: A Symbol of Strengthening India-Mauritius Ties

The Government of Mauritius presented India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the highest civilian honour in a historic and significant show of appreciation.  The Indian Prime Minister received the esteemed Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean (OSK) honour to appreciate his important contributions to promoting and fortifying the long-standing relations between Mauritius and India.

The ceremony highlights the long-standing and diverse friendship between the two countries and was held during PM Modi's official visit to Mauritius in March 2025.  A significant turning point in diplomatic ties was reached when Mauritius' Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth gave Modi the prize. 

An Important Turning Point in Bilateral Relations

The highest honour given by the Mauritius government to foreign dignitaries and persons who have demonstrated exceptional contributions to the nation's growth and international relations is the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean. The fact that PM Modi was recognised shows how well he has led the advancement of India's strategic connections with Mauritius, which are founded on common historical, cultural, and economic links. 

With over 68% of its population being of Indian descent, Mauritius is a small island nation in the Indian Ocean with a sizable Indian diaspora.  The two nations have strong and intimate ties as a result of their common ancestry, and India has continuously supported Mauritius' development.  Through cooperation in fields like trade, security, culture, and education, Modi's leadership has been instrumental in strengthening these ties. 

Developing Cultural and Economic ties

 PM Modi's goal of expanding bilateral cooperation for mutual gain is the foundation of his attempts to improve India's ties with Mauritius.  Under his direction, India has been a major collaborator on Mauritius' development and infrastructure projects, including the building of the Supreme Court Building, the Metro Express project, and several programs meant to increase trade and tourism. 

Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to supporting Mauritius' sustainable development while he was there, sharing India's knowledge in important areas including technology, renewable energy, and capacity building.  His visit also demonstrated how important both nations are to the overall security of the Indian Ocean, as they work closely together on counterterrorism and maritime security initiatives.

Furthermore, India-Mauritius relations have always been based on cultural exchanges.  Through festivals, artwork, and customs that honour the rich cultural legacy of both countries, the Indian diaspora in Mauritius continues to commemorate its heritage.  PM Modi's attempts to strengthen the relationship have been motivated by his profound appreciation for this cultural connection. 

A Sign of Unity Between India and Mauritius

 In addition to being a reward for Prime Minister Modi, the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean acknowledges the solid and long-standing ties between Mauritius and India.  The two nations are now positioned as important partners in regional and international affairs in addition to being close neighbours thanks in large part to Modi's leadership in cultivating this connection. 

In his remarks after the award ceremony, Prime Minister Modi conveyed his sincere appreciation and underlined the significance of India-Mauritius ties in the changing international environment.  "Our nations have a timeless bond based on mutual respect and shared values," he said.  I dedicate this award, which I am honoured to receive, to the long-standing friendship and collaboration between Mauritius and India. 

The fact that PM Modi received Mauritius' highest honour is evidence of the two nations' strong and thriving relationship.  The acknowledgement of Modi's leadership highlights the significance of preserving these relationships for upcoming generations as India and Mauritius continue to work together in a variety of industries.  The unique connection between the two countries is reaffirmed by this symbolic act, which also lays the groundwork for an even closer collaboration in the years to come. 

Putin Agrees in Principle to U.S. Ceasefire Proposal in Ukraine.

A U.S. proposal for a 30-day truce in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has received confirmation from Russian President Vladimir Putin that he accepts it in principle.  The conflict that has ravaged the region since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 may be about to change with this statement.

Even if the ceasefire agreement's details are still unknown, the action represents a unique opportunity for diplomacy in a conflict with long-standing hostilities. The United States has previously advocated for a brief halt in hostilities to deliver humanitarian relief and facilitate diplomatic negotiations. Although many analysts warn that executing a ceasefire could face substantial hurdles, Putin's speech signals a readiness to engage in discussions. 

Reactions to the ceasefire plan have been conflicting around the world.  The concept of de-escalation has been embraced by many world leaders, but others remain sceptical of Russia's resolve to keep the peace.  Critics contend that rather than being a true step towards peace, the ceasefire may be a tactical manoeuvre to reorganise and strengthen Russian military positions.

The proposed ceasefire poses challenging security and sovereignty issues for Ukraine.  A ceasefire, according to Ukrainian officials, might give Russia more confidence and enable them to consolidate their territorial gains.  Notwithstanding these misgivings, there is optimism that it would offer a short reprieve for civilians in the war-torn nation and a chance to resume peace negotiations. 

The world keenly monitors the issue as it develops in the hopes that this diplomatic breakthrough will lead to a more permanent settlement of the dispute. 

Trump claims that to prevent Modi from "seeing tents, potholes, and graffiti," he ordered DC to be cleaned up before his arrival.

Ahead of international leaders' visits, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Donald Trump recently ordered a thorough cleanup of Washington, D.C., emphasising the need to present a clean cityscape devoid of obvious signs of urban decay, such as potholes, graffiti, and tents, to improve the city's image. 

The Cleaner Capital Directive of President Trump

President Trump emphasised the administration's initiatives to revitalise Washington, D.C., during his speech at the Department of Justice.  "We are cleaning up our city," he said.  We're going to eliminate crime, clean up this magnificent capital, remove the graffiti, and have already taken down the tents." 

The President notably emphasised the removal of multiple tents positioned directly opposite the State Department, highlighting the urgency and efficacy of the clearance activities.  He expressed delight with the fast efforts taken, saying that the city was being converted into a capital that could be "the talk of the world." 

Making a Good First Impression for Dignitaries in Visit

President Trump emphasised how important it is to keep the surroundings spotless for foreign dignitaries.  He recalled the recent visits of world leaders, including the French president, the prime minister of France, and the prime minister of the United Kingdom, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.  The administration had prepared their itineraries to shield these leaders from any urban blight so they could see the capital city in its finest state.  "I didn't want them to see potholes in the roads, broken barriers, tents, and graffiti," the president said.  And we made it seem lovely. 

Cooperation with Local Authorities 

The cleanup effort was carried out in cooperation with local authorities. President Trump praised Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington, D.C., for her cooperation and acknowledged her efforts in tackling the city's problems, saying, "We said there are tents galore, and they have to come down. They took them down right away. So far, so good." 

A Vision for an Inviting and Crime-Free Capital

Beyond aesthetic upgrades, President Trump outlined a more comprehensive plan to make Washington, D.C., a capital free of crime.  He underlined the administration's dedication to making sure that both locals and tourists could enjoy a crime-free city.  "People will not be raped, shot, or mugged when they come here," the president declared.  Once more, they will have a capital free of crime, improved, safer, and cleaner than before, and it won't take us long to get there." 

A deliberate attempt to show a safe and revitalised capital to its citizens and foreign tourists is reflected in President Trump's order to clean up Washington, D.C. The administration wants to restore pride in the nation's capital and make sure it remains a symbol of American hospitality and ideals by tackling problems like urban deterioration and crime. 

More than 30 people killed by US attacks on Yemen

On March 15, 2025, the United States launched massive airstrikes against Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, resulting in at least 31 deaths and over 100 injuries, mostly among women and children, according to Al Jazeera. 

Background and Justification 

The Houthi attacks on commercial shipping vessels travelling through the Red Sea served as the catalyst for the airstrikes. President Donald Trump approved the military action, citing the need to protect international maritime routes and deter future aggression, and he sent a strong warning to Iran, the movement's main backer, to stop its support or face dire consequences.

The Strikes' Impact and Scope

Key Houthi installations, including as air defences, radar systems, and drone launch locations, were the focus of the first round of airstrikes. The operation, according to the U.S. military's Central Command, is broad and could last for weeks.

According to the Houthi-run Health Ministry, the deaths took place in several places, including the northern province of Saada and the capital city of Sanaa.

Global Responses

In a forceful response, Iran's Revolutionary Guards affirmed the Houthis' independence and warned that any challenges to Iran's interests would be met with swift and severe reprisal. Iranian officials denounced the U.S. strikes as human rights and international law violations.
In response to what they see as unjustified aggression, the Houthis condemned the attacks as "war crimes" and promised to strike back.

Global and Regional Consequences

The Middle East's precarious security position is highlighted by this escalation, especially with regard to the security of crucial marine routes like the Red Sea. The escalation of the conflict may worsen regional instability and make current diplomatic initiatives, such as talks about Iran's nuclear program, more difficult. To avoid a wider crisis, the international community is nonetheless on guard, recommending moderation and a return to talks.

Following a 90-minute phone conversation between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, Ukraine's Zelensky accused Russia of refusing a ceasefire.

Following a 90-minute phone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of essentially rejecting a comprehensive ceasefire proposal.  Russia struck civilian areas soon after the call, undermining hopes for a wider truce, even though it agreed to a temporary 30-day halt on attacks targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure. 

The United States has been calling for an immediate 30-day ceasefire as a first step towards resolving the three-year conflict. Nevertheless, Putin made it clear throughout the call that the West would have to stop providing Ukraine with any military or intelligence help if a comprehensive peace agreement were to be reached. Moscow has consistently demanded this requirement, which makes attempts to reach a complete ceasefire more difficult. 

Air raid sirens rang throughout Ukraine in the hours after the Trump-Putin discussion, and there were reports of explosions in some areas.  Zelensky said that a hospital in the northern Sumy region was among the civilian infrastructure targets.  "Today, Putin effectively rejected the proposal for a full ceasefire," he said, emphasising that Russia keeps attacking despite diplomatic efforts. 

Putin ordered a 30-day halt to strikes on Ukraine's energy facilities, the Kremlin said.  Moscow stressed that the "complete cessation" of Western military and intelligence assistance to Kyiv would be a prerequisite for a wider peace.  Negotiations were further complicated by Russia's demand that Ukraine not re-arm or mobilise during any ceasefire period. 

Leaders in Europe have voiced doubts about Russia's commitment to peace.  The ongoing strikes on civilian infrastructure, according to German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, show that Putin is "playing a game."  Russia doesn't seem willing to compromise, according to European Union foreign policy leader Kaja Kallas, highlighting the difficulties in resolving the situation diplomatically. 

Diplomatic attempts persist in spite of these failures. The United States has said that ceasefire negotiations will restart in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to negotiate a maritime ceasefire for the Black Sea and, ultimately, a comprehensive truce. The international community continues to keep a close eye on the situation and calls on all sides to cooperate to put a stop to the current hostilities.