Benin’s government has confirmed that 54 soldiers were killed in a jihadist attack last week near the borders with Burkina Faso and Niger, far higher than the previously reported toll of eight. The al-Qaeda-linked group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM), based in Mali, claimed responsibility. This marks the deadliest attack in northern Benin since insurgents began operating there, the BBC has reported. Benin vowed … Continue reading Benin admits that 54 soldiers killed in attack by al-Qaeda group

During recent nuclear talks in Rome, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff that reaching a final deal on President Trump’s tight 60-day timetable may not be realistic, suggesting an interim deal instead. While Iran’s UN mission denied the proposal, sources confirmed Araghchi raised the idea. Witkoff declined to consider an interim deal for now, focusing instead on completing a full agreement. … Continue reading Iran raised possible interim nuclear deal with U.S., sources say

At least 12 people were killed and dozens injured in a massive overnight Russian attack on Kyiv and other Ukrainian regions, involving nearly 70 missiles and 150 drones. Amid growing international pressure for a peace deal, Donald Trump publicly urged Vladimir Putin to stop the strikes, calling them “very bad timing.” Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is cutting his Africa trip short to return home. Meanwhile, U.S. … Continue reading ‘Vladimir, STOP!’ Trump says to Putin after deadliest Russian strike on Kyiv in months

Tensions between India and Pakistan have sharply escalated after a militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir killed 26 tourists. India blamed the Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba and identified three suspects, two of them Pakistani. Pakistan denied involvement and criticized India’s lack of evidence. In response to the accusations and diplomatic actions by India—including border closures and visa suspensions—Pakistan expelled Indian diplomats, suspended trade, and closed its airspace … Continue reading Pakistan suspends visas for Indians after deadly Kashmir attack on tourists

Russia is escalating hybrid attacks targeting the Netherlands and its European allies, including cyberattacks and potential sabotage, according to Dutch military intelligence (MIVD). The agency reported a Russian cyberattack on a Dutch public service and attempts to compromise critical infrastructure, possibly in preparation for sabotage. These hybrid threats include espionage, cyberattacks, and disinformation aimed at destabilizing society. The MIVD also warned of Russian surveillance of … Continue reading Russia is upping hybrid attacks against Europe, Dutch intelligence says

Israeli police are searching for a swimmer feared to have been attacked by a shark off the coast near Hadera. The area, known for its population of endangered dusky and sandbar sharks, draws crowds who often swim near or even interact with the sharks, despite repeated warnings from conservation groups. The missing man reportedly entered the water to swim with the sharks during a busy … Continue reading Suspected shark attack closes Israeli beach as police search for swimmer

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Ukraine is ready for peace talks with Russia “in any format” once a ceasefire is in place. The Financial Times reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered to halt the war along current front lines, potentially backing off some territorial claims. Talks are ongoing, with U.S., European, and Ukrainian officials set to meet in London. Meanwhile, the U.S. reportedly … Continue reading Ukraine presses for ceasefire as Russia reported to offer concession

Twenty-six people were killed and 17 injured when suspected militants opened fire on tourists in Pahalgam, a popular destination in India’s Jammu and Kashmir territory, in the deadliest civilian attack since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. The victims included 25 Indians and one Nepalese national. A little-known group called “Kashmir Resistance” claimed responsibility, citing anger over demographic changes in the region. Prime Minister Modi cut short … Continue reading Attack on tourists in India’s Kashmir kills 26, injures 17, police say

Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88, following a stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure. The Vatican also reported he had acute respiratory failure from double pneumonia, as well as type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Public viewing will begin Wednesday at St. Peter’s Basilica, where he made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday. He will be … Continue reading Pope Francis’s body to lie in state until funeral on Saturday, Vatican says

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope known for his humility, advocacy for the poor, and progressive stance on issues like capitalism and climate change, died Monday at age 88. Bells tolled around the world as tributes poured in. Suffering from chronic lung issues, he had been hospitalized with double pneumonia in February and made his final appearance on Easter Sunday. Elected in 2013, Francis … Continue reading Pope Francis dies at 88