World

Pakistan has suspended the 1972 Simla Agreement in response to India’s reaction to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack. The historic accord, signed after the 1971 India-Pakistan war, was a cornerstone of bilateral peace efforts. It established the Line of Control and committed both nations to resolving disputes through peaceful, bilateral dialogue. The suspension marks a significant escalation in regional tensions.

Following the deadly April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 people, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar ignited controversy by referring to the attackers as “freedom fighters.” India responded by suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and cancelling all Pakistani visas. Islamabad has termed India’s move as an “act of war,” warning of severe retaliation.

Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88. Known for his humility, progressive stance, and deep compassion for the poor, his 12-year papacy redefined the Church’s global image. The Vatican announced his passing on Monday morning, as preparations begin for the conclave to elect his successor.

U.S. President Donald Trump may abandon his administration’s efforts to broker a Russia-Ukraine peace deal within days, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Friday. Speaking after talks in Paris, Rubio warned that without swift progress, the U.S. would “move on,” citing growing frustration with Russia’s lack of compromise. The statement comes amid rising urgency in Washington to resolve the war, as high-stakes diplomacy with European and Ukrainian leaders continues.

TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025 list sees a notable absence of Indian nationals this year, despite previous appearances by Alia Bhatt and Sakshi Malik. However, Indian-origin scientist and CEO Reshma Kewalramani earned a spot in the Leaders category for her trailblazing work in biotech, including the FDA’s first approval of a CRISPR-based therapy under her leadership at Vertex Pharmaceuticals.