Author: INF365

Pakistan’s December 2024 airstrikes in Afghanistan’s Paktika province targeted TTP hideouts but caused significant civilian casualties, escalating tensions between the two nations. Afghan officials reported 46 civilian deaths, accusing Pakistan of violating sovereignty and causing widespread humanitarian suffering. Pakistan justified the strikes as necessary counterterrorism measures, citing TTP’s use of Afghan territory for attacks on Pakistan. Observers stress the need for balancing counterterrorism with humanitarian concerns to avoid further regional destabilization. In December 2024, Pakistan launched airstrikes targeting suspected Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) hideouts in Afghanistan’s Paktika province. The strikes, which caused significant civilian casualties, have heightened tensions between the two…

Historic shift as Dissanayake’s presidency ends the dominance of traditional parties like UNP and SLFP. Focus on renegotiating IMF deals, tackling corruption, and boosting local industries while addressing inflation and unemployment. Initiatives include renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and social safety nets. High expectations and Sri Lanka’s $60 billion debt require careful balancing of economic recovery and reforms. In a historic 2024 election, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of the National People’s Power (NPP), became Sri Lanka’s new president. This marks a major political shift, ending decades of dominance by the United National Party (UNP) and Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP). Dissanayake’s…

ISRO’s SpaDeX marks India’s first autonomous docking mission, showcasing advanced space rendezvous capabilities. Two 220-kg spacecraft docked autonomously, placing India among elite nations with this technology. SpaDeX supports satellite servicing, space debris reduction, and human spaceflight, aiding missions like Gaganyaan and a future space station. The mission enhances India’s strategic and economic strength, boosting defense satellite operations and public-private collaborations. On December 30, 2024, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) achieved a historic milestone by launching its first autonomous docking mission, the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX). The mission, conducted from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh, highlights India’s…

The Maldives welcomed over 2 million tourists in 2024, achieving a record-breaking recovery from the pandemic. Strategic marketing, partnerships, and improved connectivity with India and China have attracted diverse travelers. Infrastructure upgrades, like Hanimaadhoo Airport expansion, boost capacity and promote lesser-known regions. New offerings like wellness retreats and eco-tourism broaden the Maldives’ global appeal. The Maldives’ tourism industry has reached new heights in 2024, marking a full recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. In December, the nation welcomed its 2 millionth tourist, a milestone that underscores its position as a top global travel destination. Strategic investments and innovative initiatives have fueled…

As the clock reset to 2025, the world paused to reflect on the challenges that defined the past year. Climate disasters, political unrest, economic inequality, and societal divides continue to dominate global concerns. These pressing issues demand immediate action, not mere rhetoric. This year’s mission is straightforward: to rebuild the world we have, turning aspirations into concrete progress. The global mantra for 2025 resonates with urgency and hope: “We can’t build a dream world, but we can rebuild our real world.” Each continent faces unique challenges, but their resolutions reflect resilience, determination, and a commitment to meaningful action. Asia: Progress…

India’s former prime minister, Manmohan Singh, widely regarded as the architect of India’s economic reform program and a landmark nuclear deal with the US, has died at the age of 92. Manmohan Singh was admitted to New Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences late on Thursday after his health deteriorated due to a “sudden loss of consciousness at home,” the hospital said in a statement. It added that he was “being treated for age-related medical conditions.” A mild-mannered technocrat, Manmohan Singh became one of India’s longest-serving prime ministers, holding the position for 10 years. He was chosen to fill…

U.S. President Joe Biden has commuted the sentences of 37 federal death row inmates, replacing their death penalties with life imprisonment without parole. This historic decision, announced Wednesday, spares inmates convicted of heinous crimes but excludes three high-profile cases involving acts of terrorism and hate crimes. Biden emphasized his longstanding opposition to capital punishment, stating, “I am more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level.” However, his measure does not extend to over 2,000 inmates sentenced to death under state jurisdictions. The move comes just weeks before President-elect Donald Trump,…

Bangladesh has formally sought India’s assistance in extraditing former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to face charges of crimes against humanity. This request, which was confirmed during a Monday press briefing by Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Tawhid Hossain, follows a diplomatic Note Verbale sent to India. Speaking at the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) Day 2024 event, Home Affairs Advisor Lt. General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury added, “The Ministry of Home Affairs initiated the extradition request through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We already have an extradition treaty with India.” Allegations and Legal Proceedings Sheikh Hasina’s downfall in 2024 was precipitated…

Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor to Bangladesh’s interim government, recently dismissed concerns over a potential rise in Islamic extremism. He reassured that fears were misplaced and highlighted the secular, progressive outlook of Bangladesh’s youth. In an interview with The Economist on December 20, 2024, Dr. Yunus emphasized the pivotal role of young people in shaping a modern, inclusive nation. He expressed confidence in their ability to steer the country towards a brighter future. Bangladesh’s Recognition as Country of the Year 2024 This interview coincided with Bangladesh’s recognition as The Economist’s 2024 Country of the Year. Unlike other accolades based on…

Trump to EU: Boost U.S. Energy Imports or Face Tariffs President-elect Donald Trump has issued a sharp ultimatum to the European Union, demanding increased imports of U.S. oil and gas. The move aims to address a $208.7 billion trade deficit in goods between the two economies. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “I told the European Union they must make up their tremendous deficit with the United States by buying large amounts of our oil and gas. Otherwise, it is TARIFFS all the way!” EU’s Response to Trump’s Demands The European Commission responded cautiously to Trump’s statement. A…