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Israeli forces have killed two Palestinians, including a 16 year old boy, during separate military raids in the Jenin governorate in the occupied West Bank, according to Palestinian officials, further intensifying tensions in the region.
The Palestinian Ministry of Health said the teenager, Rayyan Abdel Qader, was shot dead after Israeli forces entered the town of Qabatiya. The second victim, identified as 22 year old Ahmad Zayoud, was killed during another operation in Silat al Harithiya, west of Jenin.
Eyewitnesses stated that Abdel Qader was shot directly as Israeli troops stormed the area. Locals alleged that emergency medical teams were prevented from reaching him for several minutes, during which he bled severely. His body was later taken away by Israeli forces.
The Health Ministry said Zayoud was shot in the chest during clashes in his village. A 15 year old boy was also injured in the same incident after sustaining a gunshot wound to his hand.
The killings come amid a surge in Israeli military operations across the northern West Bank, particularly in the Jenin area, which has witnessed repeated raids and confrontations in recent months. Zayoud&rsquo;s death follows the killing of another 16 year old in the same region last week.
Israeli authorities have claimed that the use of force followed alleged attacks on soldiers, including the throwing of stones or explosives. However, Palestinian officials and residents have disputed these claims, describing the incidents as excessive use of force during raids in residential areas.
Human rights groups have repeatedly raised concerns over the growing number of Palestinian minors killed in the West Bank since 2023, warning of a pattern of lethal force being used during arrest operations and military incursions.
As violence continues to escalate, the latest deaths have renewed international concern over civilian safety and accountability in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Two Palestinians Killed in Israeli West Bank Raids

Teen among dead as Israeli forces carry out raids in Jenin amid escalating violence

A terror attack at Ramot Junction, a key northern gateway to <a title="Israel" href="https://www.benefitnews24.com/international/israel-launches-airstrikes-on-yemen-s-capital-sana/18491" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jerusalem</a>, has left at least four dead and &nbsp;20 people injured, with six victims in critical condition, according to emergency officials.
The attack unfolded shortly after rush hour when two armed men boarded Bus 62 and began firing indiscriminately at passengers. Eyewitnesses described panic and chaos as commuters attempted to flee amid shattered glass and heavy gunfire.
Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel&rsquo;s paramedic service, confirmed that teams arrived within minutes. &ldquo;When we arrived, we saw people lying unconscious on the road and near the bus stop. There was a lot of destruction, shattered glass everywhere, and screams for help,&rdquo; paramedic Nadav Taib reported.
Both attackers were &ldquo;neutralised&rdquo; by police within moments of the shooting. Security forces immediately sealed off the area while medical teams from MDA and United Hatzalah administered first aid and evacuated victims to nearby hospitals.
ALSO READ: https://www.benefitnews24.com/international/israel-warns-gaza-city-could-be-destroyed/18205
The attack marks the&nbsp;latest in a series of assaults that have struck Israel in recent years. According to official figures, Israel has faced more than 40 significant terrorist incidents since 2022, many involving stabbings, vehicle rammings, and shootings targeting civilians in urban areas and transport hubs.
Israeli authorities have launched a full investigation into the attack. No group has yet claimed responsibility.

Crime scene after terrorists attacked passengers on Jerusalem bus

Gunmen opened fire at Ramot Junction, six victims are in critical condition

Jerusalem bus attack leaves four dead

Tensions escalated further in the Middle East as Yemen&rsquo;s Houthi group claimed to have launched a hypersonic ballistic missile at Israel&rsquo;s Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv on Sunday. The group said the strike was in retaliation for Israeli air raids on a power station in southern Sanaa, which knocked out electricity generators but caused no casualties.
The missile triggered air raid sirens across central Israel, including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and surrounding cities, forcing residents into shelters. Israeli Defence Forces confirmed they intercepted the missile mid-air, reporting no casualties or damage.
In response, Israel said its fighter jets targeted Houthi-controlled infrastructure in Yemen, including the Hezyaz power station south of Sanaa. Defence Minister Israel Katz warned that the Houthis would &ldquo;pay dearly&rdquo; for every attempted strike on Israeli territory.
The Houthis, who control much of northern Yemen, have stepped up drone and missile assaults on Israel since November 2023, framing their campaign as solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Since March 2025, they have launched at least 70 ballistic missiles and 22 drones, most intercepted by Israel&rsquo;s defence systems.
Israel has retaliated with repeated strikes on airports, ports, and energy facilities in Yemen. Just days before the latest incident, the Houthis also claimed drone attacks on Haifa, Eilat, Negev, and Be&rsquo;er Sheva, as well as renewed assaults on Red Sea shipping linked to Israel.
The escalating hostilities highlight how the Gaza war has drawn in regional actors, with the Houthis positioning themselves as a key front in the wider conflict.
[Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]
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Houthis claim missile on Ben Gurion; Israel intercepts, strikes Sanaa power plant

Houthis Fire Missile at Israel, IDF Strikes Back

A nationwide strike began across Israel on Sunday morning as families of hostages protested the government&rsquo;s plan to expand the Gaza war instead of securing a deal for their loved ones&rsquo; release.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum announced that nearly one million people were expected to pass through Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, with tens of thousands joining events at protest sites nationwide.
To mark the start of the day, activists handed out yellow ribbons at intersections across the country, symbolising solidarity with the hostages.
The day&rsquo;s events are centred in Tel Aviv. At 7 a.m., the October Council issued a press statement from Sarona Market, across from the Kirya military headquarters. A special photography exhibition opened at 9 a.m. in Hostages Square, running until 6 p.m., while speeches by relatives of hostages were scheduled throughout the day at two-hour intervals.
The strike and demonstrations will culminate in a mass rally at 8 p.m. outside the Kirya headquarters, amplifying demands for the government to prioritise a hostage deal over a military campaign to seize Gaza City.
The protests highlight mounting public pressure on Israel&rsquo;s leadership as families push for an immediate resolution to the hostage crisis.
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&nbsp;

Hostage families lead nationwide strike, mass rallies planned in Tel Aviv against Gaza war

Israel Strike Over Gaza War Plan Begins

In a dramatic intensification of its nearly two-year war on Gaza, Israel&rsquo;s political-security cabinet has approved a long-anticipated plan to occupy Gaza City. The decision unfolds after more than ten hours of deliberations, signaling a fundamental shift in Israel&rsquo;s military approach.
Israel&rsquo;s security cabinet has approved a new operational strategy directing the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to prepare for taking control of Gaza City, while giving priority to the delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians outside active combat areas.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated that Israel aims to maintain military control over the entire Gaza Strip but insists it has no intention of directly governing the territory. Instead, the plan envisions creating a secure buffer zone before transferring administrative control to yet-unspecified Arab partners.
Within Israel&rsquo;s defense establishment, the proposal has faced significant pushback. IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir has cautioned that a complete occupation could trigger intensified insurgency, jeopardize the lives of hostages, and impose long-term humanitarian and security strains on Israel.
Alongside the military directive, the cabinet has endorsed five key principles to conclude the conflict:
<ul data-start="1222" data-end="1460">
<li style="font-family: georgia, palatino, serif; font-size: 12pt;" data-start="1222" data-end="1251">
Full disarmament of Hamas
</li>
<li style="font-family: georgia, palatino, serif; font-size: 12pt;" data-start="1252" data-end="1283">
Safe return of all hostages
</li>
<li style="font-family: georgia, palatino, serif; font-size: 12pt;" data-start="1284" data-end="1321">
Complete demilitarization of Gaza
</li>
<li style="font-family: georgia, palatino, serif; font-size: 12pt;" data-start="1322" data-end="1362">
Continued Israeli security oversight
</li>
<li style="font-family: georgia, palatino, serif; font-size: 12pt;" data-start="1363" data-end="1460">
Establishment of a civilian administration independent of Hamas and the Palestinian Authority
</li>
</ul>
The move has drawn swift international criticism, with humanitarian agencies warning that the plan risks worsening famine conditions and could further isolate Israel diplomatically. Approximately 50 hostages remain in Gaza, with estimates suggesting that only around 20 may still be alive. Military operations are expected to cause mass displacement, potentially affecting up to one million Palestinians as troops advance into urban population centers.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Israel’s security cabinet approves plan to seize Gaza City, marking major war escalation

Netanyahu Moves to Seize All of Gaza

In a revelation that may reshape assumptions about the aftermath of the brief but intense Israel-Iran war earlier this year, a senior Israeli official has disclosed that key portions of Iran&rsquo;s enriched uranium stockpile appear to have survived coordinated <a title="US" href="https://www.benefitnews24.com/international/us-strike-hits-iran-nuclear-sites-delays-by-2-yrs/15682" target="_blank" rel="noopener">American</a> and <a title="Israel" href="https://www.benefitnews24.com/international/israel-hits-iran-s-key-nuclear-sites-in-12-day-raid/15052" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Israeli</a> airstrikes.
The strikes, which targeted <a title="Iran" href="https://www.benefitnews24.com/international/did-us-strikes-fail-to-cripple-iran-s-nukes-/14818" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Iran&rsquo;s</a> major nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan during the height of the 12-day conflict, were believed to have inflicted heavy damage on Iran&rsquo;s nuclear infrastructure. However, Israeli intelligence now indicates that approximately 400 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60% remained in place at the time of the bombings &mdash; and has not been removed since.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, the Israeli official said Iran&rsquo;s nuclear engineers may still be able to access some of this material, particularly at the Isfahan site &mdash; long monitored by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). However, removing or mobilising it would reportedly prove challenging under current circumstances.
ALSO READ: https://www.benefitnews24.com/international/trump-claims-us-bombed-iran-s-fordo-nuke-facility/14516
The New York Times, quoting the same Israeli source, confirmed that despite heavy bombardments by both Israel and the United States, portions of Iran&rsquo;s uranium stockpile stored underground were not destroyed. While the material is difficult to retrieve, it has not been rendered entirely inaccessible &mdash; a conclusion that runs contrary to early Western assessments.
The Israeli official appeared unconcerned about the uranium&rsquo;s current location, stressing that any Iranian attempt to recover or repurpose it would likely be detected. &ldquo;The Iranians will try every possible way to learn their lessons and recover,&rdquo; he warned, underlining that Tehran remains committed to regaining its nuclear momentum.
Defence Minister Israel Katz, meanwhile, has called for a long-term enforcement strategy to prevent Iran from rebuilding the capabilities it held before the conflict. &ldquo;The enemy is learning and preparing,&rdquo; he said, urging Israeli forces and intelligence to anticipate future threats and stay a step ahead.
According to the New York Times, Israeli military planning had shifted toward active strikes on Iran as early as 2024, driven by intelligence reports suggesting that Tehran was advancing a secret nuclear weapons programme. These concerns culminated in the joint US-Israeli offensive &mdash; an operation publicly hailed by former President Donald Trump, who rejected claims that it had delayed Iran&rsquo;s nuclear timeline by only a few months. Trump asserted that the programme had been completely dismantled.
The latest revelations, however, suggest that the picture is far more complex &mdash; and that Iran&rsquo;s nuclear ambitions may not have been entirely derailed. As both sides recalibrate in the war&rsquo;s aftermath, the risk of renewed escalation remains far from remote.

Iran's nuclear sites after American airstrike (image courtesy: Maxar)

Israel eyes enforcement plan as Iran may still access uranium post joint military strikes

Iran's Uranium Stockpile Partly Survived Airstrikes

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) announced it had eliminated the terrorist cell behind recent rocket attacks on Sderot and Ibim, while intensifying its military campaign across the Gaza Strip.
According to a post on X, the IDF confirmed that the cell was neutralised shortly after firing rockets, thanks to intelligence from the 401st Brigade&rsquo;s fire control centre. In the past 24 hours alone, the Israeli Air Force struck around 150 targets, including underground tunnels, weapons caches, and sniper posts.
Ground forces, particularly from the 162nd Division and Nahal Brigade, have been engaged in sweeping operations in northern Gaza, targeting terrorist infrastructure and eliminating threats. One such operation saw the identification and elimination of a militant approaching Israeli troops.
In Khan Younis, Israeli troops uncovered a stockpile of rifles, pistols, mortar shells, and ammunition, further disrupting the operations of militant groups.
The IDF also reported continued action in Rafah and the western Negev region, where the Gaza Division (143) is active both in defence and counter-offensive operations against terror elements.
The military vowed to continue its operations until all threats against Israeli communities are neutralised.
[Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]

IDF Eliminates Rocket Cell, Hits 150 Gaza Targets in 24 Hours

Israel steps up air and ground operations in Gaza, targeting rocket sites, tunnels, and weapon stockpiles amid continued conflict.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Friday declared that three of Iran's key nuclear sites&mdash;Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan&mdash;were significantly damaged during a 12-day military campaign, &ldquo;Operation Rising Lion,&rdquo; which concluded with a ceasefire earlier this week.
According to the IDF, the operation began on June 13 with the aim of crippling Iran&rsquo;s nuclear and missile infrastructure, which Israel claims posed an existential threat. During the offensive, the Israeli military reportedly eliminated 11 senior nuclear scientists and struck the inactive nuclear reactor at Arak to prevent any future activation.
The IDF said more than 35 strategic locations were attacked, including 200 missile launchers and 50% of Iran&rsquo;s total launcher stockpile. Additionally, 1,500 critical components, 15 aircraft, 90 military targets, 80 air defense systems, and six airfields were destroyed. The strikes resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Iranian personnel, including dozens of commanders and over 30 senior figures from Iran&rsquo;s security establishment.
The operation included 1,500 fighter jet sorties and 600 in-flight refuelings. Precision airstrikes were conducted as far as 2,400 km away at Mashhad airport. Of the drones launched from Iran, Israel claims to have intercepted 99%.
The IDF also credited its intelligence and technological capabilities for enabling full aerial dominance over Iran. At home, Israel&rsquo;s Home Front Command and emergency forces responded to incidents across 170 locations during the operation.
Following the ceasefire confirmation by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel declared that all strategic goals of the mission had been achieved &mdash; including neutralizing dual threats from Iran&rsquo;s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. [Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed]

Israel Hits Iran’s Key Nuclear Sites in 12-Day Raid

IDF says major damage dealt to Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan in precision airstrikes

After nearly two weeks of brutal exchanges between Iran and Israel, a tenuous ceasefire brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump appeared to be holding on Wednesday. Both nations have claimed victory following a punishing 12-day conflict that drew the United States directly into the theatre of war.
The conflict began on 13 June, when Israeli forces launched a sudden aerial offensive targeting Iranian nuclear installations, reportedly eliminating several senior Iranian military commanders. The campaign marked Israel&rsquo;s most devastating strike against Iran since the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s.
In support of its regional ally, the United States entered the fray with a wave of coordinated airstrikes aimed at disabling Iran&rsquo;s uranium enrichment facilities. While the Trump administration initially declared that Iran&rsquo;s nuclear weapons ambitions had been &ldquo;obliterated,&rdquo; subsequent intelligence assessments suggest a less conclusive outcome.
According to defence sources familiar with early intelligence evaluations, the strikes succeeded in blocking access to two enrichment facilities but fell short of destroying Iran&rsquo;s subterranean nuclear infrastructure. Several centrifuge units are believed to have remained operational, and Iran&rsquo;s overall nuclear timeline may have been delayed by only a few months&mdash;not dismantled as initially claimed by Washington.
The White House has dismissed these findings as inaccurate. Nonetheless, the contradiction has cast a shadow over the extent of strategic success achieved through the military campaign. Despite the disparity in assessments, the U.S. formally reported to the United Nations Security Council that the weekend strikes had &ldquo;degraded&rdquo; Iran&rsquo;s programme, a more measured stance than the president&rsquo;s original pronouncement.
In Tel Aviv, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the operation as a triumph that neutralised existential threats to the state. He declared that the combined military action had eliminated both the immediate danger of a nuclear Iran and the looming threat posed by Iran&rsquo;s vast ballistic missile arsenal.
In Tehran, President Masoud Pezeshkian proclaimed what he described as a &ldquo;great victory&rdquo; in ending the conflict on Iran&rsquo;s terms. Iranian media reported that Pezeshkian conveyed to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that Iran remains open to resolving long-standing hostilities with the United States.
Meanwhile, in Washington, there is cautious optimism. President Trump&rsquo;s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, described ongoing diplomatic exchanges with Iran as &ldquo;promising&rdquo; and hinted at the possibility of negotiating a long-term peace framework. U.S. officials are reportedly engaging with Tehran both directly and through intermediaries, with aspirations of re-establishing regional stability and reshaping the geopolitical dynamics of the Gulf.
As the dust settles, the larger questions remain: whether this fragile calm can be sustained, and if the spectre of nuclear escalation in the Middle East has truly been pushed back&mdash;or merely postponed.
<hr data-start="3271" data-end="3274">

Devastation after exchange of air strikes between Israel and Iran (image source: social media)

After 12 days of war, a fragile calm prevails as nuclear claims face growing scrutiny

Ceasefire Holds, Questions Linger Over Iran Strikes

Israel Confirms Ceasefire Deal with Iran After 12 Days of Hostilities
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday confirmed that Israel has accepted a ceasefire proposal with Iran, marking the end of 12 days of intense hostilities between the two regional adversaries.
In an official statement from the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office, Netanyahu declared that Israel had fulfilled all strategic objectives of its military campaign, codenamed Operation Rising Lion, and in fact surpassed expectations.
Iran&rsquo;s Youm Tov Samia, a reserve general in what Tehran refers to as the &ldquo;Zionist regime&rsquo;s army&rdquo;, claimed: &ldquo;It is Iran that took control of the situation and determined the timing of the ceasefire.&rdquo;
<h3 data-start="1020" data-end="1103">🇮🇷 Tehran&rsquo;s Last-Minute Strike and Statement from Iran&rsquo;s Foreign Minister</h3>
Just hours before the ceasefire came into effect, Iran launched a final barrage of ballistic missiles towards Israel. One missile struck a residential building in Beersheba, killing four civilians. Iranian state media clarified that the missiles were launched prior to the formal implementation of the ceasefire.
In a pointed statement, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi emphasised Iran's resolve in the closing hours of the conflict:
<blockquote data-start="1562" data-end="1920">
"The military operations of our powerful Armed Forces to punish Israel for its aggression continued until the very last minute, at 4am. Together with all Iranians, I thank our brave Armed Forces who remain ready to defend our dear country until their last drop of blood, and who responded to any attack by the enemy until the very last minute."
</blockquote>
<h3 data-start="1922" data-end="1966">🇮🇱 Israel Claims Strategic Victory</h3>
Netanyahu's statement read:
<blockquote data-start="1998" data-end="2356">
&ldquo;Israel has achieved all the objectives of Operation Rising Lion, and even beyond. We have neutralised dual existential threats&mdash;both nuclear and ballistic. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) attained complete air superiority over Tehran&rsquo;s skies, dealt a severe blow to Iranian military leadership, and destroyed dozens of critical regime targets inside Iran.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
The statement further asserted that, within the past 24 hours alone, the IDF had:
<ul data-start="2442" data-end="2676">
<li data-start="2442" data-end="2516">
Carried out targeted strikes on regime installations in central Tehran
</li>
<li data-start="2517" data-end="2620">
Eliminated hundreds of Basij operatives, labelled as part of Iran&rsquo;s internal oppression apparatus
</li>
<li data-start="2621" data-end="2676">
Assassinated another senior Iranian nuclear scientist
</li>
</ul>
Netanyahu extended his gratitude to US President Donald Trump and the United States for their strategic and operational support in &ldquo;eliminating the Iranian nuclear threat&rdquo;.
<blockquote data-start="2852" data-end="3028">
&ldquo;In light of achieving all operational goals, and in full coordination with President Trump, Israel has accepted his proposal for a bilateral ceasefire,&rdquo; Netanyahu concluded.
</blockquote>
<h3 data-start="3030" data-end="3072">🇺🇸 US Confirms Truce, Urges Calm</h3>
US President Donald Trump also confirmed the ceasefire on his platform, Truth Social, stating that a truce between Iran and Israel was now officially in force. He urged both nations to adhere strictly to the terms and avoid any further escalation.
The Prime Minister's Office issued a stern warning regarding future violations:
<blockquote data-start="3409" data-end="3475">
&ldquo;Israel will respond forcefully to any breach of the ceasefire.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<h3 data-start="3477" data-end="3509">⚔️ Context of Escalation</h3>
The ceasefire follows nearly two weeks of escalating violence that began with Israel&rsquo;s Operation Rising Lion, targeting key Iranian military and nuclear sites. In retaliation, Iran launched a series of missile strikes on Israeli cities and later expanded its response to include US military bases in Qatar and Iraq&mdash;prompted by earlier American strikes on Iran&rsquo;s nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.

Israel prime minister Netanyahu and Iran's supreme leader Khomenie

Ceasefire comes after Tehran’s last-minute strike; Israel claims all war goals achieved

Iran–Israel Ceasefire Follows Midnight Missile Barrage

Gujarat Congress Internal Dispute: The countdown to the 2027 Gujarat Assembly election has already begun. The 2029 Lok Sabha election is not far away either. The Congress high command is making claims of a change of power in Gujarat. Rahul Gandhi is talking about rebuilding the Gujarat Congress from the ground up. There is talk of removing the &lsquo;lame horses&rsquo; and putting the &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; on the field. But looking at the current state of the Gujarat Congress, one question cannot be avoided: before entering the race, will the Congress even be able to get its own team to stand in one line? Before declaring war against the BJP, the Congress is caught in a political battle within its own house. The question is bitter, but necessary: if a party cannot create unity within its own organisation, how does it expect to take on the BJP&rsquo;s formidable organisational machinery in Gujarat?
Leaders Changed, But Why Didn&rsquo;t the Problem? Keeping the 2027 Assembly and 2029 Lok Sabha elections in mind, the Congress has begun making changes to its Gujarat organisation. The high command wanted to remove the old and inactive structure and bring forward leaders with the ability to fight elections. But when a party repeatedly needs to change its state in-charge, the question becomes bigger than the capability of the individual holding the post. Mukul Wasnik was replaced by Randeep Singh Surjewala as Gujarat Congress in-charge. With the new in-charge came expectations of a new direction, a new strategy and greater discipline within the organisation. Yet, barely had Surjewala taken charge when a controversy erupted within Banaskantha Congress over the organisational structure. That is where the Congress&rsquo;s real trouble begins.
A Symptom of Congress&rsquo;s Organisational Illness Banaskantha is not an ordinary constituency. It is the only Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat that the Congress won in the 2024 general election. That makes it the biggest symbol of political hope for the Congress in Gujarat. So when differences emerge over organisational posts and responsibilities in precisely this constituency, when questions are raised over decisions taken by the state leadership, and when the district organisation itself becomes a subject of controversy, this cannot simply be dismissed as a &lsquo;local dispute&rsquo;. It is a symptom of the Congress&rsquo;s organisational illness. And if this illness continues until 2027, the BJP will be the direct beneficiary. The Congress needs to understand one basic reality: elections are not won through posters, press conferences and speeches by big leaders. Elections are won at the booth. The BJP&rsquo;s organisational machinery is active right down to the booth level. To challenge it, the Congress needs a strong network of workers, clearly defined responsibilities and a united district-level organisation. But here, the very formation of the district organisation is becoming a source of controversy. So where exactly will the Congress find the strength to challenge the BJP at the booth level?
&lsquo;Race Horses&rsquo; or Obstacles in Each Other&rsquo;s Way? Rahul Gandhi talks about identifying the &lsquo;lame horses&rsquo; in Gujarat and bringing the &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; to the forefront. It sounds attractive. But politics does not work that way. Simply choosing good horses does not guarantee victory in a race. The horses must run together rather than pull each other down. The direction of the race must be clear. And the coaching staff cannot be fighting among themselves. Only then can a team win. The Gujarat Congress&rsquo;s problem may not simply be about &lsquo;which leader should be promoted&rsquo;. The real problem is whether the leaders who are brought forward will actually work together. Mukul Wasnik is gone. Randeep Singh Surjewala has arrived. The state in-charge has changed. But if factionalism remains unchanged, internal power struggles remain unchanged, coordination between the district and state organisations remains weak, and organisational decisions themselves continue to trigger controversy, then what exactly is the Congress talking about when it talks of change? Changing faces will not change the Congress&rsquo;s fortunes. Its working style must change. Leadership accountability must be fixed. Factionalism must be brought under control. And above all, the party worker must be given confidence that the Congress is genuinely one team. Because if the Congress wants to fight the BJP, it must first stop its own leaders from fighting each other.
When Will the Political Infighting Within Gujarat Congress End? The biggest illusion for the Congress in the 2027 election would be to assume that public anger against the BJP will automatically translate into Congress votes. Politics does not work that simply. Reaching voters requires sustained ground-level work. It requires a booth-level organisation. It requires coordination among local leaders. It requires worker morale. And above all, it requires leadership running in one direction until election day. If even one of these five links is weak, the entire electoral calculation can collapse. For the Congress, this is no longer the time for experiments. It is the time for decisions. How many state in-charges will be changed? How many meetings will be held? How many times will the organisational structure be reshuffled? The question is no longer who the next Gujarat Congress in-charge will be. The real question is: when will the political infighting within the Gujarat Congress finally end? If every new in-charge is going to inherit the same old disputes, factionalism and internal resentment, then how can a new Congress emerge simply because a new face has arrived?
Will &lsquo;Race Horses&rsquo; Remain Just Another Political Slogan? If the Congress wants to win Gujarat, it must first win within its own organisation. It must win the trust of its workers. It must win the confidence of its district organisations. It must bring its leaders onto one platform. Otherwise, the Congress will lose its internal battle before its fight against the BJP has even begun. And then the talk of &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; will remain nothing more than another political slogan. The Congress has very little time left in the race for power in 2027. If it wants to take on the BJP, it must first stop its own leaders from fighting each other. Because power in Gujarat will not be won through statements from the Gandhi family. It will be won through organisational strength on the ground. The final question is simple: Is the Congress preparing to defeat the BJP, or is it still calculating whom it needs to defeat inside its own house? Want to win Gujarat? Then first, win the Gujarat Congress.

Congress has set its sights on defeating the BJP in Gujarat. But there’s a bigger battle brewing inside its own house.

Congress Wants to Defeat BJP in Gujarat, But Who Will Save Congress From Itself?

Gujarat High Court Launches Study Circle for Advocates: In a major initiative to strengthen the professional skills and legal knowledge of young advocates, the High Court of Gujarat, in collaboration with the Gujarat State Judicial Academy (GSJA), has announced the launch of a Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop) for Advocates Practicing before the High Court of Gujarat with up to 10 years of practice. The programme will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad.
Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal Announces Study Circle The initiative was announced by Gujarat High Court Chief Justice and Patron-in-Chief of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, Justice Sunita Agarwal, after the Flag Hoisting Ceremony held at the High Court Lawns on August 15. The announcement was made in the presence of Justice Bhargav D. Karia, Judge of the Gujarat High Court and President of GSJA, members of the Board of Governors of GSJA, other High Court judges, Senior Advocates and members of the Bar.
Focus on Legal Education and Professional Skills The new Study Circle is being introduced as a continuous legal learning and professional development programme for young members of the Bar. The initiative aims to enhance advocates&rsquo; understanding of legal principles, legal research, drafting and advocacy skills through direct interaction with Senior Advocates and subject experts. The programme is also expected to strengthen academic engagement between the Bench and the Bar and provide advocates with an opportunity to discuss important and evolving legal issues.
Justice Sunita Agarwal Highlights Importance of Continuous Learning Addressing the gathering, Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal highlighted the indispensable role of advocates in the administration of justice. She emphasized that continuous legal education has become increasingly important in an era of rapidly evolving jurisprudence. The Chief Justice also stressed that effective advocacy and strong legal research are essential components of a robust justice delivery system. She appreciated the efforts of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy in conceptualizing and developing the Study Circle programme.
Three Key Legal Modules in First Phase The first phase of the Study Circle will feature three major academic modules covering important areas of High Court practice. Module I will focus on the expanding contours of maintainability in writ jurisdiction under Article 226, an important area of constitutional and administrative law practice. Module II will cover the basic principles of Administrative Law and Second Appeals under Section 100 of the CPC, with particular emphasis on the Doctrine of Substantial Question of Law. Module III will focus on Criminal Law Jurisdiction, particularly the inherent powers of High Courts under Section 482 of the CrPC and Section 528 of the BNSS, including their scope, limitations and principles of judicial discipline.
Study Circle to Be Held Fortnightly The Study Circle is proposed to be conducted on a fortnightly basis, providing advocates with regular opportunities for legal learning and professional interaction. Future sessions will cover a wide range of subjects, including Constitutional Law, Writ Jurisdiction, Arbitration and Conciliation Law, Commercial Law, Public Interest Litigation, Service Law, Taxation Law, Admiralty Jurisdiction, Legal Ethics and Drafting Skills. The programme will also address contemporary legal issues that are particularly relevant to advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court.
Registration to Begin Soon Registration for the Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop Series) for Advocates Practicing in the High Court of Gujarat &ndash; Series of Academic Modules 2026 will begin shortly through the official website of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy. The programme is specifically intended for advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court who have up to 10 years of professional practice.
Registration Fee The registration fee for the Study Circle has been fixed at ₹100 per programme, which will be paid by each participating advocate. The workshops will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad. Advocates attending the workshops will also receive Certificates of Participation.
Major Step Towards Strengthening Justice Delivery The Gujarat High Court and Gujarat State Judicial Academy's new Study Circle is being viewed as a significant step towards professional excellence and development of the legal fraternity. By bringing young advocates, Senior Advocates and legal experts together for regular academic discussions, the initiative aims to improve legal knowledge, research and advocacy skills while strengthening the Bench-Bar relationship. The broader objective is to contribute towards a more effective and efficient justice delivery system in Gujarat.

Study Circle Launched for Advocates With Up to 10 Years of Practice

Gujarat High Court Big Move

A chilling video of the accused in the Indore MBA student murder case has sparked outrage after he was seen smiling and appearing unconcerned when questioned about the crime.
The accused, Piyush Dhanotia, was arrested for allegedly raping and murdering his 25-year-old classmate in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Police said he strangled the woman on February 10 inside his rented accommodation and later locked the room before fleeing. Her partially decomposed body was discovered days later after residents complained of a foul smell.
However, what has intensified public anger is the accused&rsquo;s demeanour. In a video that surfaced online, Dhanotia is seen smiling when reporters ask him why he committed the crime. When pressed for answers, he responded dismissively, saying that what had happened had already happened and that he would speak at the right time. Throughout the interaction, he showed no visible sign of regret.
Police officials said he admitted during interrogation that he forced the woman into sexual acts and killed her when she resisted, though he has reportedly changed his version multiple times. Investigators are also examining allegations that he circulated objectionable videos of the victim in their college WhatsApp group.
The victim&rsquo;s father has accused the accused of blackmailing his daughter with obscene images and attempting to extort money.
As the investigation continues, the accused&rsquo;s apparent lack of remorse captured on camera has become a focal point of the case, drawing sharp reactions both online and offline.
&nbsp;

Video shows MBA student murder accused laughing amid probe

Indore Murder Accused Smiles on Camera

Galgotias University has landed in controversy after showcasing a robotic dog at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 that was widely believed to be developed by its students. The robot, however, was later identified as a commercially available product made by Chinese robotics firm Unitree Robotics.
The backlash began after a video from the summit went viral, in which a university professor introduced the robot dog, named &ldquo;Orion,&rdquo; and referred to it as being developed at the institution&rsquo;s Centre of Excellence. Social media users were quick to point out that the machine closely resembled Unitree&rsquo;s quadruped robots, which are already available globally for research and industrial use.
Unitree is known for manufacturing advanced four-legged robots designed for tasks such as inspection, obstacle navigation and research applications. Its products are often compared to models developed by global robotics players.
Following the uproar, the Greater Noida-based university issued a clarification stating that it never claimed to have built the robot. It maintained that the robodog was purchased as part of its AI investment initiatives and is being used as a research and learning tool for students. Another faculty member present at the summit reiterated that the display had been misinterpreted and that there was no attempt to conceal the original manufacturer&rsquo;s branding.
Despite the clarification, sources familiar with the developments said the university was asked to vacate its pavilion at the summit amid mounting criticism. The institution, however, denied receiving any formal directive from the organisers or the ministry.
Notably, the robotic dog was removed from display shortly after the controversy escalated online.

Robodog row sparks backlash at India AI Impact Summit 2026

Galgotias Asked to Exit AI Summit

Actor Sidharth Malhotra is mourning the loss of his father, Sunil Malhotra, who passed away recently. The actor shared the news with an emotional message on social media. His wife, Kiara Advani, has now also paid a heartfelt tribute to her father-in-law.
On Wednesday, Kiara took to Instagram to share pictures from her wedding reception, where she and Sidharth were seen smiling alongside his parents. In a deeply personal note, she remembered Sunil Malhotra as a warm, generous, and steady presence in the family. She reflected on how he welcomed her with open arms and unconditional love, describing his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Kiara wrote that his stories, laughter, and quiet strength would remain with her forever. She added that his legacy of integrity and gentleness lives on through his children and grandchildren. Concluding her message, she expressed that he would always be loved and remembered.
The couple is currently in Delhi with their family during this difficult period. Members of the film industry extended their condolences online. Jacqueline Fernandez offered prayers, while Karan Johar and Manish Malhotra shared messages of support.
On the professional front, Sidharth will next appear in Vvan: Force of The Forest, directed by Arunabh Kumar and Deepak Mishra and produced by Balaji Motion Pictures. The film also stars Tamannaah Bhatia and is slated for release later this year.
Kiara, meanwhile, awaits the release of Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups, directed by Geetu Mohandas. The film features Yash, Nayanthara, Tara Sutaria, Huma Qureshi, and Rukmini Vasanth in key roles. The film is expected to release on March 19, alongside Dhurandhar 2, directed by Aditya Dhar.

Actor pens heartfelt note after Sunil Malhotra’s passing

Kiara Mourns Sidharth’s Father

Days after 23-year-old Sahil Dhaneshra lost his life in a fatal SUV crash in Delhi&rsquo;s Dwarka, the father of the 17-year-old accused has expressed regret over the incident, stating that his family is &ldquo;deeply grief-stricken.&rdquo; He also confirmed that the Scorpio SUV involved in the accident is part of his commercial transport business.
The crash occurred around 11:50 am on February 3 near Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management in Sector 11, Dwarka. According to police, the SUV rammed into a Yamaha R15 motorcycle, killing Sahil on the spot. The vehicle then struck a parked Swift Dzire, injuring cab driver Ajit Singh.
Post-mortem findings revealed that Sahil sustained a fractured skull, multiple rib fractures, and an elbow injury due to the high-impact collision.
The minor driver was detained at the scene and booked under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for rash driving, negligence causing death, and endangering life. He was later presented before the Juvenile Justice Board and sent to an observation home. On February 10, he was granted interim bail to appear for his Class 10 board examinations.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Police registered a separate case against the boy&rsquo;s father under Section 199A of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which holds guardians or vehicle owners accountable when a minor commits a traffic offence.
Speaking to the media after being questioned, the father said he was not in the city at the time of the accident and was unaware that his son had taken the vehicle. He stated that the family has cooperated with investigators and provided all necessary documents.
Sahil&rsquo;s mother alleged that her son was killed by a &ldquo;reckless teen&rdquo; just minutes away from his workplace. The 23-year-old, who worked part-time at an insurance firm, had plans to pursue higher studies in the United Kingdom later this year.

Minor held in SUV crash; father booked under MV Act provisions

Dwarka Crash: Accused’s Father Apologises

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday set aside a March 2025 judgment of the Allahabad High Court that had ruled that grabbing a minor girl&rsquo;s breasts and dragging her under a culvert did not amount to an attempt to rape. The apex court termed the ruling a &ldquo;patently erroneous&rdquo; application of criminal law principles.
A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N.V. Anjaria, held that the high court had incorrectly reduced the charges from attempt to rape under Section 376 read with Section 511 of the IPC and Section 18 of the POCSO Act to lesser offences. The court restored the original summons issued by the Special POCSO Court in Kasganj, clarifying that its observations were prima facie and would not influence the trial&rsquo;s outcome.
Rejecting the high court&rsquo;s reasoning that the accused had merely &ldquo;prepared&rdquo; to commit rape, the Supreme Court reiterated the settled distinction between preparation and attempt, noting that an attempt begins when intent moves into execution. Based on the allegations, including forcibly taking the minor on a motorcycle, dragging her near a culvert, and fleeing only after she screamed, the Bench held that a prima facie case of attempt to rape was clearly made out.
The proceedings were initiated suo motu after senior advocate Shobha Gupta raised concerns over the high court&rsquo;s reasoning. The Supreme Court had earlier stayed the controversial observations and later the entire judgment.
Beyond correcting the legal error, the court addressed a broader concern about insensitivity in judicial handling of sexual offence cases. It requested the National Judicial Academy in Bhopal to constitute a five-member expert committee to frame guidelines aimed at fostering compassion and sensitivity in courts, especially in cases involving minors and vulnerable victims.
The committee, to be chaired by former Supreme Court judge Justice Aniruddha Bose, has been directed to submit a report within three months. The guidelines are to be drafted in simple, accessible language and tailored to Indian realities to ensure they are understandable to victims and laypersons alike.

Top court restores rape attempt charge, seeks sensitivity guidelines

SC Sets Aside HC Order in POCSO Case

India&rsquo;s merchandise imports from Russia plunged by over 40% in January 2026, falling to about $2.86 billion from $4.81 billion a year earlier, official trade figures show, largely reflecting a steep reduction in crude oil purchases.
Crude oil typically accounts for roughly 80% of India&rsquo;s imports from Russia, and estimates suggest purchases of Russian crude last month were significantly lower than in previous years. Other goods imported from Russia include coal, fertilisers, iron, pulses, and precious stones, but these have not offset the slump in oil imports. The downturn in oil imports intensified after mid-2025, following punitive tariffs levied by the United States on Indian goods connected to purchases of Russian oil and ongoing diplomatic pressure. India&rsquo;s refiners, including some major private and state firms, have substantially reduced or halted buying Russian crude as they explore alternative sources.
In early February 2026, Washington eased the additional tariff on Indian products after New Delhi signalled a commitment to &ldquo;stop directly or indirectly importing&rdquo; Russian oil and to increase purchases of energy products from the United States, as well as broadening ties in global energy markets.
Analysts expect the shift in crude sourcing to continue, with Indian refiners eyeing other suppliers, including Middle Eastern and Venezuelan grades, as part of broader diversification strategies.

January sees 40% fall in Russia merchandise imports amid crude cutbacks

India’s Russia Imports Drop Sharply

A 27-year-old man has been arrested in Andhra Pradesh&rsquo;s Annamayya district for allegedly abducting and murdering a seven-year-old girl from his neighbourhood in Madanapalle town.
The child had been playing outside her home on Sunday evening when she went missing, sparking panic among her family and local residents. A missing complaint was filed the following morning, prompting an intensive search operation led by district police.
Investigators reviewed CCTV footage from across the town, which reportedly showed the suspect, a neighbour living opposite the victim&rsquo;s house, taking the child into his residence. Acting on this lead, police searched the house on Tuesday morning.
During the inspection, officers discovered the girl&rsquo;s body concealed inside a water storage drum within the premises. The accused was present at the house at the time and was immediately taken into custody.
Preliminary findings suggest the child was killed inside the residence on Sunday night, and her body was hidden thereafter. Authorities are probing whether sexual assault occurred before the murder, with confirmation pending post-mortem and forensic examination results.
Following the discovery, tensions escalated in the area. Residents and family members staged a protest on the Madanapalle highway, briefly preventing police from shifting the body to the government hospital for autopsy and demanding strict punishment for the accused.
Police have stated that all possible angles, including prior allegations of inappropriate behaviour by the suspect, are being examined as the investigation continues.

Child’s body found in drum; protest erupts in Madanapalle town

7-Year-Old Killed, Neighbour Arrested

The United States and Iran held their second round of indirect negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, as diplomatic efforts continue amid heightened regional tensions. While both sides indicated forward movement in discussions, parallel military developments have added complexity to the fragile engagement.
Reports suggest the US has significantly reinforced its military presence in the Middle East. Over 50 advanced fighter aircraft, including F-35, F-22 and F-16 jets, were reportedly repositioned to the region within a 24-hour window. The deployment follows Washington&rsquo;s decision to send a second aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, to Middle Eastern waters, underscoring its strategic posture.
Despite the show of force, the Geneva discussions were described as substantive and focused. Iranian officials signalled that preliminary understandings were reached on broad guiding principles that could shape a future agreement. However, they cautioned that drafting and finalising any deal would take time.
On the American side, officials maintained that the talks unfolded largely as anticipated. Washington&rsquo;s core objective remains preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a position repeatedly emphasised by senior US leadership.
Meanwhile, regional tensions persisted. Iran temporarily restricted navigation in parts of the Strait of Hormuz during a naval drill, highlighting the waterway&rsquo;s vulnerability. Additionally, US leaders suggested that differences remain over key conditions laid out by President Donald Trump.
As diplomacy continues, both nations appear to be balancing dialogue with deterrence, leaving the broader geopolitical landscape uncertain.

Second Geneva round shows progress as military moves raise stakes

Tel Aviv News