World

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian to enter the International Space Station (ISS), marking a historic milestone for India's space programme. In a live interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shukla shared his experience of life in zero gravity, witnessing 16 sunrises and sunsets daily, and viewing Earth as one unified home without borders. Calling it a journey for the entire nation, Shukla emphasized that he carries the Tiranga and the hopes of every Indian aboard the ISS, where he and his crewmates will conduct scientific experiments over 14 days.

As Indian trade negotiators arrived in Washington for the final round of talks before the July 9 tariff pause deadline, US President Donald Trump hinted at a potential major trade deal with India, stating, “We’re going to open up India.” However, agriculture remains a major sticking point, with the US pushing for greater market access for soybeans, corn, and apples. The lack of a valid US Trade Promotion Authority limits tariff commitments, raising doubts over the long-term durability of any agreement.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reiterated his claim that he prevented a war between India and Pakistan by threatening to halt trade deals with both nations. Speaking after the NATO summit in The Hague, Trump said he warned leaders in New Delhi and Islamabad that the U.S. would not proceed with trade negotiations if hostilities continued. However, India maintains that the ceasefire understanding reached on May 10 was the result of direct military-level talks, without any external mediation.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a “complete and total ceasefire” between Israel and Iran, marking the end of a 12-day conflict. However, tensions remain as missile sirens continue to sound across Israel, and both sides have traded accusations of ceasefire violations. While Israel claims to have achieved all objectives under Operation Rising Lion, Iran issued conflicting statements about the agreement, raising questions about the ceasefire’s stability.

Asia is warming nearly twice as fast as the global average, with 2024 marking one of the hottest years on record, according to the World Meteorological Organization. The region faced prolonged heatwaves, accelerated glacier melt, and rising sea levels, increasing risks for millions. Experts warn that urgent climate action is critical as vulnerable communities bear the brunt of escalating environmental threats.