Last Friday, a group of Indian journalists accompanied Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu on a trip to Israel. While some disclosed that they were there on a junket organized by the Israeli foreign ministry, others failed to mention this crucial detail. As the journalists' reports from the trip focused heavily on the Israeli hostages and detainees, rather than the ongoing genocide in Gaza, questions have been raised about the ethics and bias in their reporting. With Israel's ban on international media and targeting of local journalists, the timing and purpose of this junket have sparked debate about the role and responsibility of journalists in covering complex international conflicts.
Tragedy struck the Bhandup area of Mumbai as a 17-year-old boy was electrocuted while walking home in the rain. Despite warnings from local residents, the loud music from his headphones drowned out their shouts and he was fatally shocked. As the city experiences heavy downpours, normalcy slowly returns with the resumption of public services and the IMD predicting a decrease in rainfall intensity.
White House adviser Peter Navarro stirred controversy by accusing India of having a role in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, as he defended Trump's decision to impose a 50% tariff on Indian goods. Navarro also claimed that India's partnership with China and purchase of Russian oil was contributing to the crisis, calling it a "refining profiteering scheme" and "laundromat for the Kremlin". Despite his admiration for India and its leader Modi, Navarro urged the country to take responsibility for its actions and work towards peace instead of fueling the war.
A recent report has shed light on the alarming rise of criminal activities perpetuated by Indian gangs in Canada, with Surrey's 'Kap's Cafe' restaurant being a prime target. From shootings to crude bombings, the attacks allegedly claimed by the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang have not only put public safety at risk but also raised concerns about ties with India. What makes this situation even more complex is the involvement of Khalistani extremism, as seen in the attacks claimed by fugitives of the Babbar Khalsa International.
An unverified social media post suggesting that India had invited BRICS+ countries to trade in local currency instead of the US dollar has been dismissed by the Ministry of External Affairs. Officials have clarified that de-dollarisation is not a part of India's financial agenda and the country has not taken any steps to reduce dependence on the USD. The statement came after Brazilian President Lula da Silva's proposal to explore alternative currencies in the wake of escalating trade tensions with the USA.
India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, met with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, to discuss the status of their bilateral relationship in the face of potential sanctions from the US regarding India-Russia energy trade. While Lavrov emphasized the strong ties between the two nations, Jaishankar highlighted the importance of their ongoing dialogue and finding innovative ways to navigate geopolitical challenges. The meeting took place amidst strained relations between India and the US, with Trump's recent tariff increases on Indian goods and criticism of India's energy and defense cooperation with Russia.
Palestinian journalist Bisan Owda's social media post proposing a Global Strike for Gaza has gained support from advocacy groups including the Global Campaign to Stop the Genocide in Gaza and Humaniti Project. This campaign calls for a global economic boycott on Thursdays, starting on August 21, to pressure the international community into taking action against Israel's continued attacks on Gaza. The goal is to make enough noise and impact through withheld money to force governments to act.
The Monsoon Session of India's Parliament is wrapping up with drama as the ruling and opposition parties clash over the Centre's proposed Bills. In light of this, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to Russia to boost trade and investment ties takes on increased significance. This comes as President Trump's administration continues to place high tariffs on Indian imports, including Russian oil. Meanwhile, in a tense situation unfolding in Israel, the military has announced its intention to take control of Gaza City in the name of security.
As tensions rise in the Israel-Hamas conflict, Save the Children Gaza Humanitarian Director Rachael Cummings warns of a "catastrophic" situation for children in Gaza. The organization's clinics are overwhelmed with malnourished patients, including pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. Despite Israel's efforts to provide aid through airdrops, the crisis is also taking its toll on hospitals and health centers. Cummings advocates for controlled delivery of humanitarian supplies through recognized routes to effectively address the dire situation in Gaza.
Save the Children has reported the tragic milestone of 100 children who have died of starvation in Gaza since October 2023, with many more young lives at risk. Ahmad Alhendawi, the organization's Regional Director, accuses Israeli authorities of deliberately using starvation as a method of warfare, placing the responsibility on the international community to enforce international law. The effects of malnutrition on these children can span generations, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and shattered futures. This is a moral failure that shames the world.