Hamas leaders face internal divisions as talks for a temporary truce with Israel unfold. Gaza's leader, Yahya Sinwar, reportedly seeks a pause in hostilities, while exiled leader Ismail Haniyeh demands more concessions for a complete Israeli withdrawal. Amid conflicting messages, Qatar and US officials express cautious optimism after Hamas responds positively to a proposed deal. The sticking point revolves around the release of hostages, with Israel demanding all be returned, alive or dead. Political survival considerations by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and internal tensions within Hamas add complexity to the negotiations, prolonging the suffering for Gazans and Israeli hostages' families.

Explosions heard near London's Old Bailey resulted in staff evacuation after black smoke poured from a nearby building. Around 25 firefighters responded to an incident at an electrical substation, causing power outages in the area. The London Fire Brigade is on the scene, with trials postponed. The cause of the incident is unknown. Recorder of London Mark Lucraft KC mentioned hearing the explosion, stating it's too early to determine when the courthouse might reopen. This follows a recent incident of falling debris, prompting maintenance acknowledgment and budget allocation for the historic courthouse.

Trinamool MP Derek O'Brien alleges Prime Minister Narendra Modi has "blood on his hands" for undermining federalism during a fiery Rajya Sabha session. O'Brien criticizes Modi's lengthy Mann Ki Baat, accusing the government of turning Parliament into a dark chamber. Modi, advocating competitive cooperative federalism, faced backlash as O'Brien claimed he butchered federalism. In response, Modi attacked Congress, invoked Mamata Banerjee's seat prediction, and criticized Rahul Gandhi. He also highlighted Nehru's reservations against reservation. Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi called Modi a "fan of Nehru," prompting discussions on the PM's focus on historical figures rather than achievements.

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), the UAE's largest sovereign wealth fund, is establishing a $4-5 billion fund to invest in India via Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City). In-principle approval from GIFT City's regulatory authority allows ADIA to become the first sovereign wealth fund investing in India through the finance hub. ADIA's move aligns with Modi's efforts to enhance ties with the UAE. GIFT City, offering a 10-year tax holiday, aims to become a global financial gateway. ADIA, exempt from long-term capital gains taxes, strengthens India's financial collaboration with sovereign wealth funds.

A bipartisan agreement in the US, backed by the White House, brings relief to H-1B visa holders and families. The deal ensures automatic work authorization for approximately 100,000 H-4 visa holders, including spouses and children of specific H-1B visa holders. Additionally, around 250,000 children facing aging-out issues while awaiting their parents' green cards will benefit. This development is welcomed by Indian tech workers, aiding those awaiting Green Cards for their spouses and children to avoid deportation risks. President Biden underscores the importance of immigration system reform for national security while urging swift Congressional approval.

Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, under ED remand, allegedly held in a basement without sunlight, revealed advocate Rajeev Ranjan. The AG stated that Soren is monitored even while sleeping by armed guards. The ED extended Soren's remand by five days, following 120 hours of interrogation in the past five days. Soren, arrested on January 31, participated in the Champai Soren government's successful floor test on February 5. Soren's wife marked their 18th anniversary, expressing confidence in overcoming the conspiracy. Soren denounced his arrest as oppression against Dalits and tribals during the floor test.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed Jawaharlal Nehru did not favour reservation of any kind in jobs in a Rajya Sabha address. Modi read a 1961 letter where Nehru expressed dislike for any form of reservation, emphasizing the importance of empowering backward groups through education, not caste-based job reservations. Modi criticized Congress for neglecting Dalits and OBCs, highlighting that Nehru's stance contradicts their current advocacy for social justice. This marks the second instance in three days that Modi invoked Nehru to challenge Congress. Earlier, he cited Nehru's views on Indians' work habits, igniting a fresh debate on historical perspectives within Indian politics.

Qatar confirms Hamas has responded positively to a truce proposal amid US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's regional tour. Hamas acknowledged delivering its response to mediators in Paris. Talks continue as Blinken aims for a lasting ceasefire. The ongoing conflict, which started in October, has claimed over 1,160 lives and resulted in widespread destruction. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejects Hamas's demands for a prisoner exchange. As violence escalates, humanitarian concerns grow, with thousands displaced and urgent aid needed. International efforts persist to broker peace amidst escalating tensions in the region.

In a potential blow to the INDIA bloc, Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) leader Jayant Chaudhary is reportedly in talks with the BJP for a possible alliance. Sources indicate BJP's offer of four Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh. Chaudhary's meeting with a senior BJP leader in Delhi fuels speculation of an impending alliance. His absence from recent parliamentary sessions adds to the intrigue. Alleged strained relations with SP's Akhilesh Yadav and seat-sharing disagreements within SP-RLD alliance contribute to the political churn. Talks continue amidst Congress-SP discussions for Uttar Pradesh's 80 Lok Sabha seats.

Lionel Messi expressed regret over his inability to participate in Inter Miami's pre-season friendly in Hong Kong, citing a hamstring injury. Fans, anticipating Messi's presence, voiced frustration and demanded refunds after the match. David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami, faced boos during a post-match speech. The Hong Kong government expressed disappointment over Messi's absence and organizers' lack of explanation. Despite the setback, Messi trained with the team in Japan and expressed hope to play in their upcoming match against Vissel Kobe. He emphasized his desire to contribute to matches and expressed gratitude for fans' support.