Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) carried out a massive retaliatory attack on Israel, launching around 200 missiles at key military and security targets. The attack, which marked a significant escalation of hostilities between the two nations, was reportedly in response to the killings of key Iranian and Hezbollah commanders by Israel. While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, world leaders have condemned the attack and called for de-escalation to prevent further violence.
A shooting outside the Jewish Museum in Washington, DC has left two staff members of the Israeli Embassy dead, with the suspect identified as Elias Rodriguez. As officials continue to investigate the motive behind the incident, Israel's ambassador to the UN has called it a "depraved act of anti-Semitic terrorism" and President Trump has condemned the act of hatred and radicalism. The shooting occurred just steps from the FBI's Washington Field Office.
Two staff members of the Israeli Embassy in Washington DC were fatally shot in what police are investigating as an act of anti-semitic terrorism. The suspect, identified as Elias Rodriguez, was arrested after shouting "Free, free Palestine." The incident has sparked outrage and grief, with the Israeli Embassy calling for justice and faith in law enforcement to protect its representatives and Jewish communities in the United States. US President Donald Trump also condemned the attack, stating that hatred and radicalism have no place in the country.
In a statement, Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal, Member of Parliament and Founder Chancellor of Lovely Professional University, expressed his appreciation for the ceasefire between India and Pakistan. He also praised the Indian Armed Forces for their courage and vigilance, and commended the Indian Government for their balanced and strategic response to the recent tensions. This development brings hope for a peaceful resolution to the longstanding conflict between the two nations.
In a historic moment for Indian literature, Banu Mushtaq's short story collection, Heart Lamp, translated from Kannada by Deepa Bhasthi, has won the prestigious International Booker Prize of 2025. This marks a major milestone for both the Kannada language and Penguin Random House India, who published the book. The novel explores themes of womanhood, love, and tradition in contemporary South India, making it a universally resonant work. Congratulations have been pouring in from the publishing world, acknowledging the vital role of translation in global literature.
Tea is more than just a drink; it is deeply ingrained in cultures around the world. This year, on May 21, 2025, we celebrate International Tea Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the cultural, economic, and social significance of tea. From the traditional Japanese tea ceremonies to British afternoon teas, this day highlights the diverse ways in which tea is enjoyed and its positive impact on the economies of many countries. Not only does it promote sustainable tea production, but it also raises awareness about the well-being of tea workers and their communities.
Sikh religious authorities and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) have denied claims made by the Indian Army stating that air defence guns were deployed at the Golden Temple in Amritsar to counter aerial threats from Pakistan. The SGPC clarified that no such permission was granted and no deployment took place. They also questioned the basis of the Army official's statement, leading to concerns over security measures and coordination between the Army and religious authorities.
Vice President JD Vance, joined by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Rome to discuss ending the war in Ukraine and negotiating a ceasefire. The meeting, which took place after Pope Leo XIV's inaugural mass, comes after the pair's contentious exchange in the Oval Office earlier this year. Zelenskyy called it a "good meeting" and expressed Ukraine's readiness to negotiate with Russia for a ceasefire. This comes after a brief meeting between President Trump and Zelenskyy in Rome after Pope Francis's funeral.
The Indian Army has revealed that Pakistani forces attempted to target the Golden Temple in Punjab's Amritsar following Operation Sindoor, which aimed to dismantle terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Major General Kartik C Seshadri, GOC of 15 Infantry Division, stated that they had anticipated Pakistan's actions and had mobilized additional air defense assets to protect the holy site. Thankfully, due to the alertness and bravery of the Indian army air defense gunners, all drones and missiles were shot down, preventing any harm to the Golden Temple.
In a major revelation, the Indian Army confirmed that Pakistan launched a nuclear-capable Shaheen missile at India during the intense shelling following India's Operation Sindoor. However, India's S-400 defence system successfully intercepted the missile, preventing any potential destruction. The use of Shaheen missile has raised concerns among defence experts, but India's swift and precise response showcases the capabilities of the S-400 system, which has been listed as a serious concern by NATO. The Army also released a dramatic video showcasing parts of Operation Sindoor, India's response to the Pahalgam terror attack.
International Museum Day (IMD) is celebrated annually on May 18 to promote cultural exchange, understanding, and peace among all nations. The theme for 2025, "The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities", reflects the evolving role of museums in a world of constant change and highlights their potential to connect, innovate, and preserve cultural identity. The recent military escalation between India and Pakistan in May also highlighted the importance of monitoring and fact-checking online content, as governments around the world grapple with the issue of fake news and misinformation.