US–Israel–Iran War | Iran warns of direct retaliation if infrastructure is targeted amid rising Middle East tensions
Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned on Tuesday that any attack targeting the country’s infrastructure would provoke an immediate and proportional response, as tensions continue to rise following recent US-Israel strikes that have escalated the Middle East conflict. In a message posted on the social media platform X, Ghalibaf said Iran would not hesitate to retaliate if its critical facilities were attacked, emphasizing that the country would respond according to what he
US–Israel–Iran War | Iran warns of direct retaliation if infrastructure is targeted amid rising Middle East tensions
Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned on Tuesday that any attack targeting the country’s infrastructure would provoke an immediate and proportional response, as tensions continue to rise following recent US-Israel strikes that have escalated the Middle East conflict. In a message posted on the social media platform X, Ghalibaf said Iran would not hesitate to retaliate if its critical facilities were attacked, emphasizing that the country would respond according to what he
PM Narendra Modi YouTube Channel Crosses 30 Million Subscribers, Highest Among World Leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved a major digital milestone as his official YouTube channel surpassed 30 million subscribers, making him the most followed world leader on the platform. The achievement highlights the Prime Minister’s unmatched global digital presence and reinforces his dominance across social media platforms. According to official sources, the subscriber count places Narendra Modi well ahead of other prominent international leaders. Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who holds the second-highest subscriber base among world leaders on YouTube, has only about one-fourth of Modi’s subscribers. Similarly, US President Donald Trump trails far behind, with Modi reportedly having more than seven times the number of subscribers. The Prime Minister’s strong presence on YouTube reflects his strategic use of digital platforms to connect directly with citizens in India and audiences worldwide. His channel features speeches, policy announcements, live event broadcasts, campaign messages, and cultural highlights, drawing millions of views regularly. The content appeals not only to domestic supporters but also to the Indian diaspora and global viewers interested in India’s political landscape. Within India, Modi’s digital reach also surpasses that of his political rivals. His YouTube subscriber base is around three times larger than that of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. It is also more than four times higher than the subscriber counts of the Aam Aadmi Party and the Indian National Congress when considered individually. This gap underscores the Bharatiya Janata Party leader’s commanding influence in the digital political arena. The YouTube milestone comes just weeks after Modi became the first world leader to cross 100 million followers on Instagram. Having joined the platform in 2014, his Instagram account has evolved into one of the most engaging profiles among global political figures. Over the past decade, he has consistently leveraged visual storytelling, behind-the-scenes moments, diplomatic engagements, and public outreach initiatives to maintain high engagement rates. Political analysts note that Modi’s digital strategy has played a crucial role in shaping modern political communication in India. By effectively utilizing social media platforms such as YouTube and Instagram, he has managed to bypass traditional media channels and communicate directly with the public. With 30 million YouTube subscribers and 100 million Instagram followers, Narendra Modi continues to set new benchmarks for digital engagement among world leaders. The milestone not only reflects his popularity but also signals the growing importance of online platforms in global politics and governance.
PM Narendra Modi YouTube Channel Crosses 30 Million Subscribers, Highest Among World Leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved a major digital milestone as his official YouTube channel surpassed 30 million subscribers, making him the most followed world leader on the platform. The achievement highlights the Prime Minister’s unmatched global digital presence and reinforces his dominance across social media platforms. According to official sources, the subscriber count places Narendra Modi well ahead of other prominent international leaders. Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who holds the second-highest subscriber base among world leaders on YouTube, has only about one-fourth of Modi’s subscribers. Similarly, US President Donald Trump trails far behind, with Modi reportedly having more than seven times the number of subscribers. The Prime Minister’s strong presence on YouTube reflects his strategic use of digital platforms to connect directly with citizens in India and audiences worldwide. His channel features speeches, policy announcements, live event broadcasts, campaign messages, and cultural highlights, drawing millions of views regularly. The content appeals not only to domestic supporters but also to the Indian diaspora and global viewers interested in India’s political landscape. Within India, Modi’s digital reach also surpasses that of his political rivals. His YouTube subscriber base is around three times larger than that of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. It is also more than four times higher than the subscriber counts of the Aam Aadmi Party and the Indian National Congress when considered individually. This gap underscores the Bharatiya Janata Party leader’s commanding influence in the digital political arena. The YouTube milestone comes just weeks after Modi became the first world leader to cross 100 million followers on Instagram. Having joined the platform in 2014, his Instagram account has evolved into one of the most engaging profiles among global political figures. Over the past decade, he has consistently leveraged visual storytelling, behind-the-scenes moments, diplomatic engagements, and public outreach initiatives to maintain high engagement rates. Political analysts note that Modi’s digital strategy has played a crucial role in shaping modern political communication in India. By effectively utilizing social media platforms such as YouTube and Instagram, he has managed to bypass traditional media channels and communicate directly with the public. With 30 million YouTube subscribers and 100 million Instagram followers, Narendra Modi continues to set new benchmarks for digital engagement among world leaders. The milestone not only reflects his popularity but also signals the growing importance of online platforms in global politics and governance.
US and Israel intensify attacks on Iran as Trump vows retaliation after troop deaths
The United States and Israel continued coordinated military strikes inside Iran as tensions escalated following the deaths of three American service members during the latest phase of the conflict. Former US President Donald Trump said the United States would respond forcefully to the losses, warning that additional casualties could occur before the confrontation reaches a conclusion. The deaths mark the first confirmed American fatalities since the latest round of joint operations targeting Ira
US and Israel intensify attacks on Iran as Trump vows retaliation after troop deaths
The United States and Israel continued coordinated military strikes inside Iran as tensions escalated following the deaths of three American service members during the latest phase of the conflict. Former US President Donald Trump said the United States would respond forcefully to the losses, warning that additional casualties could occur before the confrontation reaches a conclusion. The deaths mark the first confirmed American fatalities since the latest round of joint operations targeting Ira
US and Israel launch strikes on Iran, raising fears of wider West Asia conflict
The United States and Israel carried out a coordinated military operation against Iran on February 28, marking a sharp escalation in West Asia tensions and raising concerns about a wider regional conflict. Officials familiar with the development said the strikes were aimed at key military and political targets, including locations linked to Iran’s leadership and nuclear programme. Iranian authorities later responded with missile attacks targeting Israeli territory and facilities used by US for
US and Israel launch strikes on Iran, raising fears of wider West Asia conflict
The United States and Israel carried out a coordinated military operation against Iran on February 28, marking a sharp escalation in West Asia tensions and raising concerns about a wider regional conflict. Officials familiar with the development said the strikes were aimed at key military and political targets, including locations linked to Iran’s leadership and nuclear programme. Iranian authorities later responded with missile attacks targeting Israeli territory and facilities used by US for
Zelenskyy urges Trump to maintain US support for Ukraine war effort
As the Russia-Ukraine war entered its fourth year, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued a direct appeal to former US President Donald Trump, urging continued American backing for Kyiv in its ongoing fight against Moscow. The Ukrainian leader emphasized that sustained US support remains critical as the conflict with Russia shows no signs of resolution. In an interview ahead of the February 24 anniversary marking Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Zelenskyy stressed the strategi
Zelenskyy urges Trump to maintain US support for Ukraine war effort
As the Russia-Ukraine war entered its fourth year, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued a direct appeal to former US President Donald Trump, urging continued American backing for Kyiv in its ongoing fight against Moscow. The Ukrainian leader emphasized that sustained US support remains critical as the conflict with Russia shows no signs of resolution. In an interview ahead of the February 24 anniversary marking Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Zelenskyy stressed the strategi
Putin calls new US sanctions on Cuba unacceptable after Kremlin meeting
Russian President Vladimir Putin met Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez at the Kremlin on Wednesday, using the talks to sharply criticize the latest United States sanctions on Havana and reaffirm Moscow’s support for its long-time Caribbean ally. The meeting took place against the backdrop of intensifying economic pressure on Cuba and growing geopolitical tensions over the island’s energy supplies. According to official statements, Putin described the newly imposedestrictio
Putin calls new US sanctions on Cuba unacceptable after Kremlin meeting
Russian President Vladimir Putin met Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez at the Kremlin on Wednesday, using the talks to sharply criticize the latest United States sanctions on Havana and reaffirm Moscow’s support for its long-time Caribbean ally. The meeting took place against the backdrop of intensifying economic pressure on Cuba and growing geopolitical tensions over the island’s energy supplies. According to official statements, Putin described the newly imposedestrictio
US and Iran hold second round of nuclear talks in Geneva
The second round of talks between the United States and Iran concluded in Geneva on Tuesday, with both sides signaling cautious optimism about the path forward. The Geneva meet, facilitated through Oman mediation, comes at a sensitive moment in US Iran relations, with diplomatic and military signals unfolding simultaneously across the Middle East. Speaking at the Conference on Disarmament, Iran FM Abbas Araghchi described the latest engagement as a potential turning point. He said a
US and Iran hold second round of nuclear talks in Geneva
The second round of talks between the United States and Iran concluded in Geneva on Tuesday, with both sides signaling cautious optimism about the path forward. The Geneva meet, facilitated through Oman mediation, comes at a sensitive moment in US Iran relations, with diplomatic and military signals unfolding simultaneously across the Middle East. Speaking at the Conference on Disarmament, Iran FM Abbas Araghchi described the latest engagement as a potential turning point. He said a
PM Modi to visit Israel on February 25–26 to boost strategic ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to undertake a two-day visit to Israel from February 25 to 26, according to sources familiar with the development. The programme for the trip is currently being finalised, but officials indicate that the visit will include high-level engagements aimed at strengthening the already robust India–Israel partnership. During the visit, Modi is likely to address the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, where discussions are expected to focus on key bilateral an
PM Modi to visit Israel on February 25–26 to boost strategic ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to undertake a two-day visit to Israel from February 25 to 26, according to sources familiar with the development. The programme for the trip is currently being finalised, but officials indicate that the visit will include high-level engagements aimed at strengthening the already robust India–Israel partnership. During the visit, Modi is likely to address the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, where discussions are expected to focus on key bilateral an
India–US trade deal: Doval warns Washington against pressure tactics
India’s national security advisor Ajit Doval conveyed a firm message to senior United States officials months before the announcement of a new trade agreement between New Delhi and Washington, underscoring that India would not yield to public pressure or coercive tactics during negotiations. According to officials familiar with the discussions, Doval made it clear during meetings in Washington that India was prepared to wait out the current US administration if necessary rather than accept terms it viewed as unfavorable. The visit took place in early September, shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, signaling an active diplomatic phase for New Delhi across major global powers. During his interaction with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Doval reportedly emphasized that while India remained committed to reviving trade talks, it expected a more measured tone from Washington and less public criticism that could complicate bilateral ties. Officials said Doval sought to put recent acrimony behind the two countries and expressed interest in restarting substantive discussions on a trade deal that has been under negotiation for several years. At the same time, he warned that India would not be “bullied” by President Donald Trump or senior members of his team, stressing that any agreement must respect India’s economic interests and strategic autonomy. The remarks came months before Trump publicly announced progress on a trade deal with India following a phone call with Modi on February 2. That announcement marked a fresh attempt by both sides to rebuild momentum in economic cooperation after a period marked by tariff disputes and disagreements over market access. Diplomatic observers note that India’s approach reflects a broader foreign policy strategy that balances engagement with firmness. By signaling willingness to continue talks while resisting overt pressure, New Delhi appears intent on safeguarding domestic priorities while preserving its long-term partnership with Washington. The United States remains one of India’s largest trading partners, and both governments view closer economic integration as central to strengthening strategic ties in the Indo-Pacific. The Washington meeting is seen as part of quiet backchannel diplomacy aimed at lowering tensions and creating space for practical negotiations. With both sides now indicating readiness to resume dialogue, officials say the focus will be on rebuilding trust and advancing a mutually beneficial trade framework that supports growth and stability in the relationship.
India–US trade deal: Doval warns Washington against pressure tactics
India’s national security advisor Ajit Doval conveyed a firm message to senior United States officials months before the announcement of a new trade agreement between New Delhi and Washington, underscoring that India would not yield to public pressure or coercive tactics during negotiations. According to officials familiar with the discussions, Doval made it clear during meetings in Washington that India was prepared to wait out the current US administration if necessary rather than accept terms it viewed as unfavorable. The visit took place in early September, shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, signaling an active diplomatic phase for New Delhi across major global powers. During his interaction with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Doval reportedly emphasized that while India remained committed to reviving trade talks, it expected a more measured tone from Washington and less public criticism that could complicate bilateral ties. Officials said Doval sought to put recent acrimony behind the two countries and expressed interest in restarting substantive discussions on a trade deal that has been under negotiation for several years. At the same time, he warned that India would not be “bullied” by President Donald Trump or senior members of his team, stressing that any agreement must respect India’s economic interests and strategic autonomy. The remarks came months before Trump publicly announced progress on a trade deal with India following a phone call with Modi on February 2. That announcement marked a fresh attempt by both sides to rebuild momentum in economic cooperation after a period marked by tariff disputes and disagreements over market access. Diplomatic observers note that India’s approach reflects a broader foreign policy strategy that balances engagement with firmness. By signaling willingness to continue talks while resisting overt pressure, New Delhi appears intent on safeguarding domestic priorities while preserving its long-term partnership with Washington. The United States remains one of India’s largest trading partners, and both governments view closer economic integration as central to strengthening strategic ties in the Indo-Pacific. The Washington meeting is seen as part of quiet backchannel diplomacy aimed at lowering tensions and creating space for practical negotiations. With both sides now indicating readiness to resume dialogue, officials say the focus will be on rebuilding trust and advancing a mutually beneficial trade framework that supports growth and stability in the relationship.
India, Venezuela look to deepen ties after leadership change, PM Modi speaks to Rodríguez
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a conversation with Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez, reaffirming India’s intention to deepen and expand cooperation across multiple sectors. The discussion marks a significant diplomatic engagement nearly a month after former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was removed from power and taken into United States custody following a high-profile military operation. In a message shared on social media, Modi said both sides
India, Venezuela look to deepen ties after leadership change, PM Modi speaks to Rodríguez
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a conversation with Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez, reaffirming India’s intention to deepen and expand cooperation across multiple sectors. The discussion marks a significant diplomatic engagement nearly a month after former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was removed from power and taken into United States custody following a high-profile military operation. In a message shared on social media, Modi said both sides
Rutte stresses US role in Europe’s defense during NATO and Greenland debate
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has reiterated that Europe remains fundamentally dependent on the United States for its collective defense, pushing back against any notion that the continent could independently guarantee its security. Speaking to lawmakers at the European Parliament on Monday, Rutte emphasized that the transatlantic alliance remains indispensable at a time of rising geopolitical uncertainty and renewed debate over Europe’s military capabilities. Rutte’s remark
Rutte stresses US role in Europe’s defense during NATO and Greenland debate
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has reiterated that Europe remains fundamentally dependent on the United States for its collective defense, pushing back against any notion that the continent could independently guarantee its security. Speaking to lawmakers at the European Parliament on Monday, Rutte emphasized that the transatlantic alliance remains indispensable at a time of rising geopolitical uncertainty and renewed debate over Europe’s military capabilities. Rutte’s remark
Greenland’s uncertain future highlights risks faced by peaceful societies
In the history of the post-Second World War era, Tibet stands as one of the most profound and painful examples of what can happen when a civilisation places its faith entirely in peace. For centuries, Tibet sought to build its identity not through conquest or military power, but through spiritual authority, discipline, and restraint. It believed that moral strength and inner balance could serve as a shield against external threats. That belief, however, proved tragically misplaced in a world whe
Greenland’s uncertain future highlights risks faced by peaceful societies
In the history of the post-Second World War era, Tibet stands as one of the most profound and painful examples of what can happen when a civilisation places its faith entirely in peace. For centuries, Tibet sought to build its identity not through conquest or military power, but through spiritual authority, discipline, and restraint. It believed that moral strength and inner balance could serve as a shield against external threats. That belief, however, proved tragically misplaced in a world whe
US–Venezuela crisis – EU faces criticism over Venezuela stance as Russia alleges double standards
Russian officials have sharply criticized European leaders over what they describe as inconsistent interpretations of international law, following recent statements by senior European Union figures on Venezuela’s political future. The remarks have added to growing diplomatic tensions at a time when conflicts and power struggles are reshaping global relations. Russia’s special envoy Kirill Dimitrev accused European democracies of applying selective standards when responding to in
US–Venezuela crisis – EU faces criticism over Venezuela stance as Russia alleges double standards
Russian officials have sharply criticized European leaders over what they describe as inconsistent interpretations of international law, following recent statements by senior European Union figures on Venezuela’s political future. The remarks have added to growing diplomatic tensions at a time when conflicts and power struggles are reshaping global relations. Russia’s special envoy Kirill Dimitrev accused European democracies of applying selective standards when responding to in
US–Venezuela crisis - US launches strikes at multiple military sites across Venezuela
The United States launched coordinated military strikes on several locations across Venezuela on Saturday, December 3, according to official statements from Venezuelan authorities. The reported attacks targeted strategic defence installations in and around the capital, marking a sharp escalation in tensions b
US–Venezuela crisis - US launches strikes at multiple military sites across Venezuela
The United States launched coordinated military strikes on several locations across Venezuela on Saturday, December 3, according to official statements from Venezuelan authorities. The reported attacks targeted strategic defence installations in and around the capital, marking a sharp escalation in tensions b
US urges China to halt military drills near Taiwan as regional tensions rise
Amid escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait, the United States State Department has urged China to halt its recent military activities near Taiwan, warning that the drills are unnecessarily heightening regional instability. The call followed a two-day military exercise conducted by China around Taiwan, which included missile launches and the deployment of fighter jets, naval vessels, and coast gua
US urges China to halt military drills near Taiwan as regional tensions rise
Amid escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait, the United States State Department has urged China to halt its recent military activities near Taiwan, warning that the drills are unnecessarily heightening regional instability. The call followed a two-day military exercise conducted by China around Taiwan, which included missile launches and the deployment of fighter jets, naval vessels, and coast gua
Nadella, Pichai Among Indian-Origin Donors as Trump Presidency Raises $2 Billion
An investigation by The New York Times has revealed that the Donald Trump Presidency raised an unprecedented $2 billion in donations during 2025, making it the most heavily funded second-term presidency in American history. Among the hundreds of donors were at least six Indian-origin Americans or the companies they lead, many of whom reportedly benefited from decisions taken by the Trump administrat
Nadella, Pichai Among Indian-Origin Donors as Trump Presidency Raises $2 Billion
An investigation by The New York Times has revealed that the Donald Trump Presidency raised an unprecedented $2 billion in donations during 2025, making it the most heavily funded second-term presidency in American history. Among the hundreds of donors were at least six Indian-origin Americans or the companies they lead, many of whom reportedly benefited from decisions taken by the Trump administrat
Trump weighs Core-5 global power bloc as potential alternative to the G7
US President Donald Trump is reported to be considering the formation of a new geopolitical grouping known as the “Core-5,” a proposed alliance that would bring together the United States, Russia, China, India, and Japan. The initiative is being explored as a potential alternative to the Group of Seven, signaling a significant shift in Washington’s approach to global leadership and alliance-building. If pursued, the Core-5 could represent one of the most powerful strategic blocs ever as
Trump weighs Core-5 global power bloc as potential alternative to the G7
US President Donald Trump is reported to be considering the formation of a new geopolitical grouping known as the “Core-5,” a proposed alliance that would bring together the United States, Russia, China, India, and Japan. The initiative is being explored as a potential alternative to the Group of Seven, signaling a significant shift in Washington’s approach to global leadership and alliance-building. If pursued, the Core-5 could represent one of the most powerful strategic blocs ever as
Trump Confirms Plan To Sell F-35 Fighter Jets To Saudi Arabia Ahead Of Crown Prince Visit
US President Donald Trump announced that the United States will move forward with selling F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, marking a significant shift in defence cooperation just as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman prepares for his first Washington visit in more than seven years. Trump described Saudi Arabia as a strong ally and confirmed that the kingdom’s request for the world-class stealth aircraft will be fulfilled. The crown prince is expected to arrive with clear priorities, includi
Trump Confirms Plan To Sell F-35 Fighter Jets To Saudi Arabia Ahead Of Crown Prince Visit
US President Donald Trump announced that the United States will move forward with selling F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, marking a significant shift in defence cooperation just as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman prepares for his first Washington visit in more than seven years. Trump described Saudi Arabia as a strong ally and confirmed that the kingdom’s request for the world-class stealth aircraft will be fulfilled. The crown prince is expected to arrive with clear priorities, includi
Jaishankar says UN system ‘gridlocked’ as reforms blocked by its own process
India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has sharply criticised the United Nations, saying the global body has become increasingly ineffective and paralysed by internal divisions. Speaking in New Delhi at the release of a commemorative postage stamp marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, Jaishankar said the organisation’s decision-making has failed to reflect the realities of its membership or the priorities of the modern world. He emphasised that meaningful reforms are
Jaishankar says UN system ‘gridlocked’ as reforms blocked by its own process
India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has sharply criticised the United Nations, saying the global body has become increasingly ineffective and paralysed by internal divisions. Speaking in New Delhi at the release of a commemorative postage stamp marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, Jaishankar said the organisation’s decision-making has failed to reflect the realities of its membership or the priorities of the modern world. He emphasised that meaningful reforms are
India Stands Firm Amid U.S. Pressure on Russian Oil
India is once again at the center of global diplomatic attention after former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to halt Russian oil imports. The Indian government swiftly denied the statement, emphasizing that its energy decisions are made independently and based solely on national interest. This move highlights New Delhi’s determination to maintain strategic autonomy amid increasing international pressure. Over the past two years
India Stands Firm Amid U.S. Pressure on Russian Oil
India is once again at the center of global diplomatic attention after former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to halt Russian oil imports. The Indian government swiftly denied the statement, emphasizing that its energy decisions are made independently and based solely on national interest. This move highlights New Delhi’s determination to maintain strategic autonomy amid increasing international pressure. Over the past two years









