17 security personnel among dead in Pakistan’s Khyber attacks
At least 14 military personnel, 18 militants and three civilians, including a child, were killed in a series of coordinated attacks in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, according to military and police officials. The violence, which involved two bomb explosions and a subsequent gunfight near a security checkpoint, also left at least 12 people injured. Security officials said the deadliest incident occurred near a military check post in Bajaur district on Monday when militants rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a wall close to the facility. The powerful blast killed 11 members of the security forces and a young girl who was nearby at the time of the explosion. Authorities described the attack as a deliberate attempt to breach the checkpoint’s defenses. In a statement issued Tuesday, the military’s media wing said troops responded swiftly after the blast. According to the statement, security personnel engaged the attackers who attempted to flee the scene. The military reported that 12 militants were killed during the follow-up operation, crediting what it called a “vigilant and resolute response” by troops on the ground. Officials maintained that the attackers’ plan to overrun the check post was successfully thwarted. In a separate operation in Shangla district, police confirmed that three security personnel and three militants were killed during what was described as a search-and-rescue mission. Authorities said the militants involved in that encounter had been linked to plots targeting Chinese nationals working in the region, highlighting ongoing concerns about the safety of foreign workers in Pakistan’s sensitive border areas. The latest violence comes amid a broader surge in militant activity across Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and adjoining tribal regions. Security analysts note that attacks have increased since the Taliban returned to power in neighboring Afghanistan in 2021. Official data indicates that more than 2,400 people were killed in terror-related incidents during the first three quarters of 2025, reflecting a sharp rise in militant violence compared with previous years. Pakistani authorities have blamed the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) for many of the recent attacks. The group, whose fighters largely originate from Pakistan’s tribal belt near the Afghan border, has intensified operations against security forces and government targets. Officials say counterterror operations will continue as security agencies attempt to contain the growing threat. Investigations into both incidents are ongoing, and additional security measures have been reinforced across vulnerable districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
17 security personnel among dead in Pakistan’s Khyber attacks
At least 14 military personnel, 18 militants and three civilians, including a child, were killed in a series of coordinated attacks in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, according to military and police officials. The violence, which involved two bomb explosions and a subsequent gunfight near a security checkpoint, also left at least 12 people injured. Security officials said the deadliest incident occurred near a military check post in Bajaur district on Monday when militants rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a wall close to the facility. The powerful blast killed 11 members of the security forces and a young girl who was nearby at the time of the explosion. Authorities described the attack as a deliberate attempt to breach the checkpoint’s defenses. In a statement issued Tuesday, the military’s media wing said troops responded swiftly after the blast. According to the statement, security personnel engaged the attackers who attempted to flee the scene. The military reported that 12 militants were killed during the follow-up operation, crediting what it called a “vigilant and resolute response” by troops on the ground. Officials maintained that the attackers’ plan to overrun the check post was successfully thwarted. In a separate operation in Shangla district, police confirmed that three security personnel and three militants were killed during what was described as a search-and-rescue mission. Authorities said the militants involved in that encounter had been linked to plots targeting Chinese nationals working in the region, highlighting ongoing concerns about the safety of foreign workers in Pakistan’s sensitive border areas. The latest violence comes amid a broader surge in militant activity across Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and adjoining tribal regions. Security analysts note that attacks have increased since the Taliban returned to power in neighboring Afghanistan in 2021. Official data indicates that more than 2,400 people were killed in terror-related incidents during the first three quarters of 2025, reflecting a sharp rise in militant violence compared with previous years. Pakistani authorities have blamed the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) for many of the recent attacks. The group, whose fighters largely originate from Pakistan’s tribal belt near the Afghan border, has intensified operations against security forces and government targets. Officials say counterterror operations will continue as security agencies attempt to contain the growing threat. Investigations into both incidents are ongoing, and additional security measures have been reinforced across vulnerable districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson dies at 84, tributes pour in worldwide
Veteran civil rights leader Jesse Jackson, one of the most influential Black political figures in modern American history, died on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, prompting an outpouring of tributes from political leaders and activists across the globe. He was 84. While the exact cause of death has not been officially confirmed, Jackson had been living for several years with progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare neurological condition that affects movement and speech. Jackson rose to national p
Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson dies at 84, tributes pour in worldwide
Veteran civil rights leader Jesse Jackson, one of the most influential Black political figures in modern American history, died on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, prompting an outpouring of tributes from political leaders and activists across the globe. He was 84. While the exact cause of death has not been officially confirmed, Jackson had been living for several years with progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare neurological condition that affects movement and speech. Jackson rose to national p
Actress Pratyusha Case Verdict After 23 Years: Supreme Court Rules Out Murder
The tragic death of actress Pratyusha, one of the most debated incidents in Telugu cinema history, has finally reached legal closure after 23 years. The Supreme Court delivered its long awaited verdict, ruling out allegations of rape and murder while upholding the conviction of Siddharth Reddy for abetment of suicide. The judgment marks the end of a prolonged legal battle that has remained a topic of public discussion since 2002. Pratyusha, who was just 20 years old at the time, was
Actress Pratyusha Case Verdict After 23 Years: Supreme Court Rules Out Murder
The tragic death of actress Pratyusha, one of the most debated incidents in Telugu cinema history, has finally reached legal closure after 23 years. The Supreme Court delivered its long awaited verdict, ruling out allegations of rape and murder while upholding the conviction of Siddharth Reddy for abetment of suicide. The judgment marks the end of a prolonged legal battle that has remained a topic of public discussion since 2002. Pratyusha, who was just 20 years old at the time, was
Apple Podcasts to add seamless video podcast support this spring
Apple announced on Monday that it plans to introduce a new integrated video podcast experience within Apple Podcasts later this spring, marking a significant step as video consumption continues to reshape the global podcast industry. The update is designed to give listeners and viewers greater flexibility while providing creators with expanded tools to distribute and monetize their content more effectively. The company’s move comes amid strong growth in video podcast viewership. According
Apple Podcasts to add seamless video podcast support this spring
Apple announced on Monday that it plans to introduce a new integrated video podcast experience within Apple Podcasts later this spring, marking a significant step as video consumption continues to reshape the global podcast industry. The update is designed to give listeners and viewers greater flexibility while providing creators with expanded tools to distribute and monetize their content more effectively. The company’s move comes amid strong growth in video podcast viewership. According
Trump warns of severe penalties in Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case
President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to those responsible for the alleged kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, stating that federal authorities will pursue the “most severe” penalties if she is harmed. The 84-year-old mother of television host Savannah Guthrie was reported abducted from her residence on February 1, 2026, triggering a nationwide law enforcement response and heightened public concern. In remarks during a recent interview, Trump said the perpetrators would face extrem
Trump warns of severe penalties in Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case
President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to those responsible for the alleged kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, stating that federal authorities will pursue the “most severe” penalties if she is harmed. The 84-year-old mother of television host Savannah Guthrie was reported abducted from her residence on February 1, 2026, triggering a nationwide law enforcement response and heightened public concern. In remarks during a recent interview, Trump said the perpetrators would face extrem
Auto loan interest tax deduction offers limited savings for most drivers in 2025
Eligible U.S. taxpayers will be able to deduct up to $10,000 in auto loan interest for the 2025 tax year under a temporary tax provision created through President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, but financial analysts say the actual benefit for most car buyers will be far smaller than the headline figure suggests. While the deduction may appear generous at first glance, typical loan structures and interest payments mean that most borrowers are unlikely to approach the maximum all
Auto loan interest tax deduction offers limited savings for most drivers in 2025
Eligible U.S. taxpayers will be able to deduct up to $10,000 in auto loan interest for the 2025 tax year under a temporary tax provision created through President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, but financial analysts say the actual benefit for most car buyers will be far smaller than the headline figure suggests. While the deduction may appear generous at first glance, typical loan structures and interest payments mean that most borrowers are unlikely to approach the maximum all
Russia blocks WhatsApp nationwide, launches state-backed MAX messenger
Russia has fully blocked access to M
Russia blocks WhatsApp nationwide, launches state-backed MAX messenger
Russia has fully blocked access to M
Satellite images show Iran fortifying underground site near Natanz nuclear facility
Fresh satellite imagery indicates that Iran is strengthening an underground complex near its main nuclear installation at Natanz, a development that analysts say could complicate diplomatic efforts and heighten regional security concerns. The activity has been observed at a mountainous site known as Pickaxe Mountain, located roughly 1.6 kilometres south of the uranium enrichment facility in central Iran, and appears to involve new concrete structures and expanded tunnel protections. The construction comes at a time of renewed friction between Tehran and Washington. Former US president Donald Trump has repeatedly warned of possible military action if Iran does not reach an agreement over its nuclear programme, while Iranian officials have vowed to respond to any strike. The exchange of threats has added to fears of escalation across West Asia, where US forces have increased their presence and longstanding rivalries continue to shape the strategic landscape. Images reviewed by analysts from the Institute for Science and International Security, a Washington-based think tank that tracks nuclear proliferation risks, show what appears to be fresh concrete poured over at least one tunnel entrance. Equipment consistent with a boom pump used for concrete delivery is visible at the site, suggesting active reinforcement work. Nearby, rock and soil appear to have been cleared and levelled, and additional concrete-reinforced structures have been erected close to the entrances. Researchers who have monitored the area for several years say the scale of excavation and the amount of construction material suggest the site could support more than routine maintenance. The depth of the tunnels, estimated to be between 79 and 100 metres underground, may offer significant protection from aerial attacks and surveillance, potentially making the facility more resilient than other known installations. Such characteristics have drawn scrutiny from non-proliferation experts, who view hardened underground sites as capable of hosting sensitive operations such as centrifuge assembly or uranium enrichment. Iran has previously said that Pickaxe Mountain could be used for manufacturing and assembling centrifuges, devices required for nuclear fuel production. Tehran maintains that its nuclear activities are intended solely for peaceful purposes, including energy generation and medical research, and has repeatedly denied pursuing a nuclear weapon. However, the limited access granted to international inspectors has raised questions among watchdog groups and foreign governments about transparency and compliance. The site was not among those reportedly targeted during earlier US strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure, which officials described at the time as severely damaging key facilities. Analysts now suggest that any reconstruction of centrifuge capacity in protected locations like Pickaxe Mountain could allow Iran to restore or expand operations more quickly if other sites are disrupted. International observers emphasize that the situation underscores the importance of oversight by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Experts argue that greater disclosure and inspections are essential to clarify the purpose of the new construction and to reduce the risk of miscalculation. Without verifiable information, they warn, suspicion could deepen and diplomatic efforts may face additional obstacles. As tensions persist, the developments at Pickaxe Mountain have become another focal point in the broader debate over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, regional stability, and the fragile balance between deterrence and diplomacy.
Satellite images show Iran fortifying underground site near Natanz nuclear facility
Fresh satellite imagery indicates that Iran is strengthening an underground complex near its main nuclear installation at Natanz, a development that analysts say could complicate diplomatic efforts and heighten regional security concerns. The activity has been observed at a mountainous site known as Pickaxe Mountain, located roughly 1.6 kilometres south of the uranium enrichment facility in central Iran, and appears to involve new concrete structures and expanded tunnel protections. The construction comes at a time of renewed friction between Tehran and Washington. Former US president Donald Trump has repeatedly warned of possible military action if Iran does not reach an agreement over its nuclear programme, while Iranian officials have vowed to respond to any strike. The exchange of threats has added to fears of escalation across West Asia, where US forces have increased their presence and longstanding rivalries continue to shape the strategic landscape. Images reviewed by analysts from the Institute for Science and International Security, a Washington-based think tank that tracks nuclear proliferation risks, show what appears to be fresh concrete poured over at least one tunnel entrance. Equipment consistent with a boom pump used for concrete delivery is visible at the site, suggesting active reinforcement work. Nearby, rock and soil appear to have been cleared and levelled, and additional concrete-reinforced structures have been erected close to the entrances. Researchers who have monitored the area for several years say the scale of excavation and the amount of construction material suggest the site could support more than routine maintenance. The depth of the tunnels, estimated to be between 79 and 100 metres underground, may offer significant protection from aerial attacks and surveillance, potentially making the facility more resilient than other known installations. Such characteristics have drawn scrutiny from non-proliferation experts, who view hardened underground sites as capable of hosting sensitive operations such as centrifuge assembly or uranium enrichment. Iran has previously said that Pickaxe Mountain could be used for manufacturing and assembling centrifuges, devices required for nuclear fuel production. Tehran maintains that its nuclear activities are intended solely for peaceful purposes, including energy generation and medical research, and has repeatedly denied pursuing a nuclear weapon. However, the limited access granted to international inspectors has raised questions among watchdog groups and foreign governments about transparency and compliance. The site was not among those reportedly targeted during earlier US strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure, which officials described at the time as severely damaging key facilities. Analysts now suggest that any reconstruction of centrifuge capacity in protected locations like Pickaxe Mountain could allow Iran to restore or expand operations more quickly if other sites are disrupted. International observers emphasize that the situation underscores the importance of oversight by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Experts argue that greater disclosure and inspections are essential to clarify the purpose of the new construction and to reduce the risk of miscalculation. Without verifiable information, they warn, suspicion could deepen and diplomatic efforts may face additional obstacles. As tensions persist, the developments at Pickaxe Mountain have become another focal point in the broader debate over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, regional stability, and the fragile balance between deterrence and diplomacy.
Frisco construction worker dies after water line rupture traps him in trench box
A construction worker died Tuesday a
Frisco construction worker dies after water line rupture traps him in trench box
A construction worker died Tuesday a
Russia dismisses US tariff threats while exploring oil support for Cuba
Russia has dismissed recent U.S. threats of tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba, while stating it is exploring ways to assist the Caribbean nation amid a deepening fuel shortage. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the government seeks “constructive dialogue” with the United States regarding Cuba’s critical energy needs but stressed that public disputes over the matter are being avoided. He highlighted that Russia’s current trade with Cuba is limited, reducing the likelihood o
Russia dismisses US tariff threats while exploring oil support for Cuba
Russia has dismissed recent U.S. threats of tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba, while stating it is exploring ways to assist the Caribbean nation amid a deepening fuel shortage. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the government seeks “constructive dialogue” with the United States regarding Cuba’s critical energy needs but stressed that public disputes over the matter are being avoided. He highlighted that Russia’s current trade with Cuba is limited, reducing the likelihood o
China’s Polar Silk Road: Arctic ambitions reshape trade and security
The Arctic, once considered remote and largely inaccessible, is emerging as a key area of global strategic interest. China has formally included its “Polar Silk Road” initiative within its broader Belt and Road strategy, signaling an expansion of influence in a region historically dominated by Arctic nations. By calling itself a “near-Arctic state,” Beijing is asserting that its economic and strategic interests extend well beyond its geographical borders, prompting concern from other glo
China’s Polar Silk Road: Arctic ambitions reshape trade and security
The Arctic, once considered remote and largely inaccessible, is emerging as a key area of global strategic interest. China has formally included its “Polar Silk Road” initiative within its broader Belt and Road strategy, signaling an expansion of influence in a region historically dominated by Arctic nations. By calling itself a “near-Arctic state,” Beijing is asserting that its economic and strategic interests extend well beyond its geographical borders, prompting concern from other glo
Minnesota immigration surge to conclude, says border czar Tom Homan
The large-scale immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota is set to conclude, according to border czar Tom Homan. Speaking at a press briefing, Homan confirmed that he had proposed ending the intensified operation and that the decision had been approved. A significant drawdown of federal personnel has already begun and is expected to continue over the next week, signaling the gradual end of the enhanced enforcement effort in the state. While the surge operation is ending in Minnesota
Minnesota immigration surge to conclude, says border czar Tom Homan
The large-scale immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota is set to conclude, according to border czar Tom Homan. Speaking at a press briefing, Homan confirmed that he had proposed ending the intensified operation and that the decision had been approved. A significant drawdown of federal personnel has already begun and is expected to continue over the next week, signaling the gradual end of the enhanced enforcement effort in the state. While the surge operation is ending in Minnesota
Jaahnavi Kandula's Family Receives $29 Million Settlement After Fatal Police Accident in Seattle
The city of Seattle has reached a $29 million settlement with the family of Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old graduate student from India, who was tragically killed in 2023 when a speeding police officer struck her. Kandula, a master's student at Northeastern University’s Seattle campus, was hit by Officer Kevin Dave, who was driving at 74 mph (119 km/h) in a 25-mph (40 km/h) zone while responding to a drug overdose call. Though Dave had his emergency lights
Jaahnavi Kandula's Family Receives $29 Million Settlement After Fatal Police Accident in Seattle
The city of Seattle has reached a $29 million settlement with the family of Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old graduate student from India, who was tragically killed in 2023 when a speeding police officer struck her. Kandula, a master's student at Northeastern University’s Seattle campus, was hit by Officer Kevin Dave, who was driving at 74 mph (119 km/h) in a 25-mph (40 km/h) zone while responding to a drug overdose call. Though Dave had his emergency lights
Virginia bill proposes 10% tax on millionaires to fund schools and housing
A proposal to create a new income tax bracket for Virginia’s highest earners is advancing through the General Assembly, with supporters arguing that the measure could generate significant new revenue for public schools, child care programs and affordable housing initiatives across the state. House Bill 188, introduced by Del. Kelly Convirs-Fowler, who represents Virginia Beach’s 96th House District, would establish a higher tax rate beginning in the 2026 tax year. Under the proposal, individuals earning more than $1 million annually would pay a 10 percent tax on income exceeding that threshold. Lawmakers backing the bill say the change would modernize Virginia’s tax structure and target additional contributions from the state’s wealthiest residents. Currently, Virginia uses a relatively flat income tax system in which all income above $17,000 is taxed at a rate of 5.75 percent. Advocates for the legislation contend that the structure places a proportionally heavier burden on middle-income families while allowing top earners to pay the same marginal rate. By creating a new bracket, they argue, the state can make its tax policy more progressive while securing funds for critical public needs. The bill specifies how revenue from the higher tax rate would be distributed. Half of the additional funds would go toward increased basic aid for public schools, a move intended to help districts address teacher shortages, classroom resources and rising operational costs. Thirty percent of the new revenue would be directed to the Child Care Subsidy Program, which assists working families with the cost of care and aims to expand access for low- and moderate-income households. The remaining 20 percent would be allocated to the Virginia Housing Trust Fund to support affordable housing development and homelessness prevention efforts. Supporters say the targeted investments could strengthen education, improve workforce participation and address housing shortages that have affected communities statewide. Critics, however, have raised concerns about potential impacts on business competitiveness and the possibility that higher-income residents could relocate, affecting overall tax collections. Those debates are expected to continue as the measure moves through committee review. In addition to the new tax bracket, HB 188 includes several technical amendments intended to align existing statutes with the proposed changes. The bill remains under consideration in committee, where lawmakers will determine whether it advances to a full vote in the House and Senate. If approved, the policy would mark one of the most significant adjustments to Virginia’s income tax system in decades and could reshape how the state funds key services tied to education, child care and housing.
Virginia bill proposes 10% tax on millionaires to fund schools and housing
A proposal to create a new income tax bracket for Virginia’s highest earners is advancing through the General Assembly, with supporters arguing that the measure could generate significant new revenue for public schools, child care programs and affordable housing initiatives across the state. House Bill 188, introduced by Del. Kelly Convirs-Fowler, who represents Virginia Beach’s 96th House District, would establish a higher tax rate beginning in the 2026 tax year. Under the proposal, individuals earning more than $1 million annually would pay a 10 percent tax on income exceeding that threshold. Lawmakers backing the bill say the change would modernize Virginia’s tax structure and target additional contributions from the state’s wealthiest residents. Currently, Virginia uses a relatively flat income tax system in which all income above $17,000 is taxed at a rate of 5.75 percent. Advocates for the legislation contend that the structure places a proportionally heavier burden on middle-income families while allowing top earners to pay the same marginal rate. By creating a new bracket, they argue, the state can make its tax policy more progressive while securing funds for critical public needs. The bill specifies how revenue from the higher tax rate would be distributed. Half of the additional funds would go toward increased basic aid for public schools, a move intended to help districts address teacher shortages, classroom resources and rising operational costs. Thirty percent of the new revenue would be directed to the Child Care Subsidy Program, which assists working families with the cost of care and aims to expand access for low- and moderate-income households. The remaining 20 percent would be allocated to the Virginia Housing Trust Fund to support affordable housing development and homelessness prevention efforts. Supporters say the targeted investments could strengthen education, improve workforce participation and address housing shortages that have affected communities statewide. Critics, however, have raised concerns about potential impacts on business competitiveness and the possibility that higher-income residents could relocate, affecting overall tax collections. Those debates are expected to continue as the measure moves through committee review. In addition to the new tax bracket, HB 188 includes several technical amendments intended to align existing statutes with the proposed changes. The bill remains under consideration in committee, where lawmakers will determine whether it advances to a full vote in the House and Senate. If approved, the policy would mark one of the most significant adjustments to Virginia’s income tax system in decades and could reshape how the state funds key services tied to education, child care and housing.
West Texas fentanyl trafficker sentenced to life after major federal crackdown
A federal judge has sentenced a major fentanyl trafficker to life in prison, concluding a sweeping two-year investigation that dismantled one of the most significant drug distribution networks operating in West Texas. Authorities said the sentence marks the final conviction in Operation Top Shelf, a coordinated law enforcement effort that resulted in dozens of arrests and hundreds of years in combined prison time for those involved. Kurtney Bernard Jones, 38, known by the alias “K
West Texas fentanyl trafficker sentenced to life after major federal crackdown
A federal judge has sentenced a major fentanyl trafficker to life in prison, concluding a sweeping two-year investigation that dismantled one of the most significant drug distribution networks operating in West Texas. Authorities said the sentence marks the final conviction in Operation Top Shelf, a coordinated law enforcement effort that resulted in dozens of arrests and hundreds of years in combined prison time for those involved. Kurtney Bernard Jones, 38, known by the alias “K
James Van Der Beek dies at 47 after battle with colorectal cancer
James Van Der Beek, the actor widely recognized for his breakout role on television drama Dawson’s Creek and the sports film Varsity Blues, has died following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. He was 47. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, confirmed his death in a message shared on social media, describing his final days as peaceful and marked by courage, faith, and grace as the family gathered around him. In her statement, Kimberly said he faced the end of his life with stren
James Van Der Beek dies at 47 after battle with colorectal cancer
James Van Der Beek, the actor widely recognized for his breakout role on television drama Dawson’s Creek and the sports film Varsity Blues, has died following a battle with stage 3 colorectal cancer. He was 47. His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, confirmed his death in a message shared on social media, describing his final days as peaceful and marked by courage, faith, and grace as the family gathered around him. In her statement, Kimberly said he faced the end of his life with stren
U.S. job growth tops forecasts as payrolls rise 130,000 in January
Job growth at the start of 2026 exceeded expectations, offering reassurance that the U.S. labor market remains resilient despite months of subdued hiring and broader economic uncertainty. Fresh data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed nonfarm payrolls increased by 130,000 in January, well above economists’ forecasts of 55,000 and marking a notable improvement from December’s revised gain of 48,000. The stronger hiring figures were accompanied by a modest decline in the un
U.S. job growth tops forecasts as payrolls rise 130,000 in January
Job growth at the start of 2026 exceeded expectations, offering reassurance that the U.S. labor market remains resilient despite months of subdued hiring and broader economic uncertainty. Fresh data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed nonfarm payrolls increased by 130,000 in January, well above economists’ forecasts of 55,000 and marking a notable improvement from December’s revised gain of 48,000. The stronger hiring figures were accompanied by a modest decline in the un
Flights Resume in Texas After Defense Neutralizes Cross-Border Drones
Flight operations at El Paso International Airport were briefly suspended on Wednesday after several drones believed to be linked to a Mexican drug cartel entered United States airspace near the Texas border, prompting swift action from federal authorities and defense officials. According to a senior administration official familiar with the matter, the unmanned aircraft crossed into restricted airspace during the early hours of the morning. Security forces quickly intervened and to
Flights Resume in Texas After Defense Neutralizes Cross-Border Drones
Flight operations at El Paso International Airport were briefly suspended on Wednesday after several drones believed to be linked to a Mexican drug cartel entered United States airspace near the Texas border, prompting swift action from federal authorities and defense officials. According to a senior administration official familiar with the matter, the unmanned aircraft crossed into restricted airspace during the early hours of the morning. Security forces quickly intervened and to
No Tax Refund Even After 90 Days? Here's the Reason Behind the Delay
Many taxpayers are facing a frustrating wait for their tax refunds as nearly 24 lakh income tax returns (ITRs) for the Assessment Year 2025–26 have been pending for more than 90 days. According to the Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, as of February 4, 2026, out of 8.79 crore ITRs filed, approximately 24.64 lakh were yet to be processed, leaving millions of individuals waiting for their refunds. The large backlog has triggered concerns, especially for senior citizen
No Tax Refund Even After 90 Days? Here's the Reason Behind the Delay
Many taxpayers are facing a frustrating wait for their tax refunds as nearly 24 lakh income tax returns (ITRs) for the Assessment Year 2025–26 have been pending for more than 90 days. According to the Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, as of February 4, 2026, out of 8.79 crore ITRs filed, approximately 24.64 lakh were yet to be processed, leaving millions of individuals waiting for their refunds. The large backlog has triggered concerns, especially for senior citizen
Politics Erupts Over Tamannaah’s Appointment as Karnataka Soaps Brand Ambassador
Actress Tamannaah Bhatia’s appointment as the brand ambassador for Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited, specifically for the iconic Mysore Sandal Soap, has sparked a political storm in Karnataka. This is not an isolated case, as it is a common practice for state governments to appoint prominent celebrities to promote certain sectors. For instance, Samantha was previously appointed as the Telangana handloom brand ambassador. However, Tamannaah’s appointment has triggered a wav
Politics Erupts Over Tamannaah’s Appointment as Karnataka Soaps Brand Ambassador
Actress Tamannaah Bhatia’s appointment as the brand ambassador for Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited, specifically for the iconic Mysore Sandal Soap, has sparked a political storm in Karnataka. This is not an isolated case, as it is a common practice for state governments to appoint prominent celebrities to promote certain sectors. For instance, Samantha was previously appointed as the Telangana handloom brand ambassador. However, Tamannaah’s appointment has triggered a wav









