Imran Khan says Pak descending into Banana Republic after close-aide arrested on sedition charges

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan further accused the ruling PML-N's Nawaz Sharif, her daughter Maryam, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman and PPP leader Asif Zardari for targeting the state institutions 'in the worst way possible', and still getting away 'without even a hint of a reprimanPakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader Shahbaz Gill, a close aide of Imran Khanan, was arrested last week in Islamabad for allegedly making controversial remarks against the Pakistan Army on a private TV channel, local media outlet GeoNews reported.

US vetoes widely supported UN resolution backing full UN membership for Palestine

The United States vetoed a U.N. resolution for full membership for Palestine, with 12 in favor, U.S. opposed, and two abstentions. This is the second attempt for Palestinian U.N. membership, supported by 140 countries. U.S. officials say statehood should result from negotiations. Palestinian officials argue membership could help achieve peace. Israel opposes, citing lack of peace efforts and past violence.

Lawyers select 12 jurors to serve in Donald Trump's hush-money case

Lawyers in Donald Trump's criminal trial selected 12 jurors for the hush-money case involving a porn star. Two jurors were dismissed, one feeling intimidated by public information and the other for not disclosing past legal issues. Trump's public presence complicated jury selection, with many dismissed for bias. Trump faces multiple criminal cases, but the New York trial is the only one set for this year.

Liquor sales in movie theaters, to-go sales of cocktails included in New York budget agreement

New York to expand access to alcohol by allowing movie theaters to sell liquor and extending takeout cocktails from bars and restaurants. State Assembly passed measures as part of budget agreement, awaiting Senate approval before reaching Gov. Hochul's desk. Legislation includes limitations on alcohol sales in theaters and extends takeout cocktails for five years. Budget deadline extended, with final vote expected later in the week.

US Congress moves ahead on bill to push TikTok's Chinese owner to sell

The U.S. Congress moves closer to forcing ByteDance to sell TikTok within a year or face a ban, as part of a $95 billion bill aiding allies. Senate Commerce Committee chair Maria Cantwell supports the measure, increasing its chances of becoming law. TikTok argues against the move, citing free speech concerns. Cantwell seeks strong legislation to address foreign app concerns.

EU seeks to leverage might to confront China, US challenge

EU leaders are pushing for the integration of the bloc's financial markets to compete globally, especially in clean technology. The single market needs updating after 30 years. Disagreements exist among member states, with France advocating for more integration. Urgency is emphasized due to economic stagnation and the need for massive investments in green and digital transitions. Former ECB chief Draghi is expected to advocate for radical change in the EU single market.

At UN, Iran warns Israel against further military action

Iran urges the UN to stop Israel's military actions, warning of peril in the Middle East. Israel vows to retaliate against Iran's recent attack. Iran threatens a decisive response to any Israeli aggression, while Israel criticizes Iran's presence at the UN. UN Secretary-General calls for restraint to avoid escalating conflict.

Italian police arrests 'most wanted' US fugitive in St Peter's Square

Italian police arrested US fugitive Moises Tejada in St Peter's Square outside the Vatican, where he was found carrying three concealed knives. Tejada, a violent individual wanted by New York state prison service, was apprehended during Pope Francis' audience. He claimed to have been in Ukraine fighting against the Russian invasion before arriving in Rome from Moldova. The US is working on extradition procedures with Italy.

European Commission proposes youth mobility agreement with UK to help youngsters

The European Commission proposed negotiations with the UK to restore youth mobility post-Brexit, allowing young people to work and study freely in both regions. The deal aims to enable EU and UK citizens aged 18-30 to stay up to four years in the destination country, addressing issues like university tuition fees for EU students in the UK. EU member countries will discuss and approve the proposal for negotiations to proceed.

‘Won't hesitate to make Israel regret its actions’: Iran's FM tells UN Security Council

Iran's Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian warned Israel of making them "regret" any attack on Iran after recent missile and drone strikes. He emphasized Iran's right to defend its sovereignty and promised a strong response to any Israeli aggression.

Poland arrests man suspected of spying for Russia to aid Zelenskyy assassination plot

Polish man arrested for allegedly spying for Russia, plotting to assassinate Ukraine's President Zelenskyy. Accused of passing airport security info to Russian agents, seeking contact with Russians involved in Ukraine war. Arrest came after tip-off from Ukraine. If convicted, could face up to 8 years in prison. Poland has been supportive of Ukraine against Russian aggression.

Nike nears eight-figure deal with basketball sensation Caitlin Clark ahead of pro debut

Nike Inc. is close to an eight-figure endorsement deal with WNBA top pick Caitlin Clark as she prepares for her professional debut. Nike plans to launch a signature shoe line for the basketball star, joining their roster of young players like LeBron James and Kevin Durant. Women's sports are gaining more attention, with Nike recently releasing a signature shoe with Sabrina Ionescu.

Kenya military helicopter crashes with defence chief on board

A Kenyan military helicopter carrying top officials, including General Francis Omondi Ogolla, crashed and caught fire. The incident involved over 10 senior commanders.

IMF chief urges attention to war-ravaged Yemen, Sudan

IMF chief Georgieva highlights suffering in Yemen and Sudan, overshadowed by other conflicts like Ukraine. Middle East economies resilient despite regional challenges. IMF revises growth forecast for the region down by 0.7 percentage points. Georgieva praises Argentina's progress in reducing inflation and Latin American governments for effective economic management. Urges global fiscal restraint to prepare for future crises. Global growth forecast upgraded to 3.2 percent.

Can Iran develop nuclear weapons amid escalating tension in the Middle East?

Iran has accelerated its nuclear program since the 2015 deal with major powers eroded, reducing the time needed to build a nuclear bomb. Breaching all key restrictions, it now enriches uranium to 60% purity and has enough for two weapons. The IAEA can't fully monitor Iran's activities, sparking concerns about weaponization. Iran denies having a nuclear weapons program, but estimates suggest it could weaponize in months to a year.

250,000 Afghan children need education, food and homes after returning from Pakistan, says NGO

A quarter of a million Afghan children face dire conditions after being forcibly returned from Pakistan, lacking education, food, and homes. Pakistan's crackdown on alleged illegal foreigners, including 1.7 million Afghans, has led to over 520,000 Afghans leaving since last October. Save the Children reports that many returnees lack food, children struggle to enroll in Afghan schools, and resources are strained. Afghanistan and Pakistan are grappling with the impact of these mass deportations.