Israel successfully conducts a rescue operation in Rafah, Gaza, freeing two Israeli-Argentine hostages, Fernando Simon Marman and Louis Har, amid intense air strikes. The hostages, from Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak, were found in good medical condition and taken to Sheba Medical Center. The operation involved heavy exchanges of fire, with Israeli forces engaging multiple locations simultaneously. Conflicting reports on Palestinian casualties emerged, with estimates ranging from 50 to 100 people killed. The rescue follows warnings from the international community against Israel's planned offensive in Rafah, where 1.5 million seek refuge. Despite calls for caution, Israel plans to proceed with its operation, sparking concerns about civilian safety and potential casualties.

Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty has been discharged from a Kolkata hospital after being admitted due to severe chest pain. Diagnosed with a stroke, he received a call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who scolded him for neglecting his health. Mithun assured he's "absolutely fine" and will resume work soon. Earlier reports indicated he was stable. Medical tests confirmed his condition, and he's now recuperating well. Mithun, recently named a Padma Bhushan awardee, joined BJP last year. His health scare highlights the importance of maintaining well-being, even for renowned figures.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and RuPay card services in Sri Lanka and Mauritius, marking a significant step towards enhancing digital connectivity among the nations. Describing it as a pivotal moment for the Indian Ocean region, PM Modi emphasized the role of fintech connectivity in strengthening historical ties. The launch facilitates UPI settlement services for travelers between India, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius, while enabling Mauritian banks to issue RuPay cards. This initiative underscores India's commitment to fostering regional cooperation and leveraging digital innovation for inclusive development. With UPI extending its footprint globally, India emerges as a leader in fintech innovation.

According to sources, Senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi is poised to contest the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections from Rajasthan, transitioning from her current role as a Lok Sabha MP representing Rae Bareli. The Congress is anticipated to unveil its candidates for the Rajya Sabha polls, with Rajya Sabha MP Akhilesh Prasad Singh speculated to be nominated from Bihar. Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Ajay Maken are also purportedly in line for Congress candidature. With elections for 56 seats across 15 states scheduled for February 27, the Congress is expected to finalize its nominees within the next one to two days.

India's KL Rahul has been ruled out of the third Test match against England in Rajkot due to fitness concerns, with fellow Karnataka batsman Devdutt Padikkal set to take his place. The BCCI medical team deemed Rahul unfit, opting to observe him for another week. Padikkal, in excellent form, replaces Rahul after scoring consistently in domestic and unofficial international matches. His flexibility in batting order adds depth to the team's lineup. The absence of key players like Rahul and Virat Kohli has posed challenges for the Indian team in the ongoing series.          

Yemen's Houthis reportedly targeted a cargo ship in the Red Sea bound for Iran, said analysts. The vessel, identified as the Star Iris, was allegedly attacked while transporting corn from Brazil to Iran. While a US defence official stated the ship was likely targeted but not hit, maritime specialists suggested damage occurred with no casualties. The Houthis' action is seen as an independent move, signaling their control, analysts noted. Previous attacks on international shipping prompted route diversions, with warplanes conducting retaliatory strikes. Iranian officials haven't commented, and the ship is now proceeding to its destination.

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan responded strongly to Pakistani fans' trolling after India's defeat to Australia in the U-19 World Cup final. Pathan criticized "keyboard warriors" across the border for finding pleasure in India's loss despite Pakistan not making it to the final. Australia's U-19 team outclassed India by 79 runs, with Pathan highlighting the negative attitude reflected by such trolling. Meanwhile, in the final, Australia set a record target of 253, and India's batting lineup faltered, ending at 174. Mahli Beardman's three-wicket haul earned him the Player of the Match award.      

Ahead of the farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' march on February 13, Delhi Police has banned large gatherings until March 12 and imposed strict restrictions, including on the entry of tractors and carrying of weapons. Security measures include concrete blocks and barbed wires at borders with neighboring states. More than 200 farmers' unions are expected to participate, demanding MSP legislation. Meanwhile, farmer leaders met Union ministers in Chandigarh, and Haryana authorities sealed borders and declared a temporary detention center. Noida police are on high alert, deploying forces and diverting commercial vehicles. Traffic advisories and metro usage appeals have been issued.

The External Affairs Ministry revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally oversaw efforts to secure the release of eight Navy veterans imprisoned in Qatar. Following their return to Delhi, Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra stated that PM Modi's leadership and India-Qatar ties were evidenced by their release. The veterans, sentenced to death on spying charges last October, had their capital punishment commuted in December after diplomatic efforts. While seven have returned, one is finalizing paperwork. Their return, viewed as a diplomatic victory, followed PM Modi's meeting with Qatar's Amir during the COP28 summit. The veterans expressed gratitude to PM Modi for his intervention.    

Ahead of the third Test match against England in Rajkot, the Indian cricket team has gathered at Sayaji Hotel, where captain Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul enjoy presidential suite accommodations. The team will relish Gujarati and Kathiyawadi cuisine, including delicacies like Fafda-Jalebi, Khakhra, and Khichdi Kadhi. Hotel director Urvesh Purohit expressed excitement about serving the players' favorites, with stars like Rahul, Hardik Pandya, and MS Dhoni known to appreciate Kathiyawadi dishes. Meanwhile, England players are set to arrive in Rajkot after a break in Abu Dhabi, aiming to reclaim the series lead after India's impressive victory in Vizag.