The revelation that Abdul Shokoor Ezedi, the suspect in the Clapham chemical attack, was granted asylum despite a conviction for sexual assault has sparked concerns about the effectiveness of the UK's asylum system. Ezedi, who arrived in the UK in 2016, was given asylum in 2020 after an appeal, claiming conversion to Christianity. Critics question the decision-making process, especially regarding individuals convicted of serious crimes. Immigration lawyer Monira Hussain criticizes the system, calling for reforms and targeted deportation policies for convicted criminals unable to return to their home countries. The case highlights broader challenges within the UK immigration system.

Yemen's Houthi rebels have pledged a retaliatory response following US and British airstrikes, asserting that the attacks "will not deter us." The joint strikes targeted 36 Houthi sites across 13 locations in Yemen, aimed at curbing the rebels' repeated assaults on international shipping in the Red Sea. US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the strikes' goal to disrupt Houthi capabilities. While specific targets weren't disclosed, Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree stated that areas including Sana'a were hit. Saree affirmed their commitment to supporting Gaza despite the attacks and warned of impending retaliation against the airstrikes.

UK PM Rishi Sunak revealed his childhood experiences with racism and parental pressure to speak without an accent in an interview with ITV News. Sunak recounted instances of racism directed at him and his siblings, expressing his determination to ensure his children don't face the same. His parents sent him for extra drama lessons to help him "fit in." Sunak emphasized the importance of combating racism and spoke about the lack of ethnic minority role models in leadership positions. The interview, part of the upcoming program "Rishi Sunak: Up Close – Tonight," offers insight into Sunak's personal experiences and upbringing.

A female passenger aboard a Bagdogra-bound SpiceJet flight alleged inappropriate behavior by her co-passenger, prompting cabin crew intervention. The incident occurred on January 31 during the Kolkata-Bagdogra flight. Despite the prompt response from the airline staff, the accused denied any wrongdoing. The female passenger chose not to file a written complaint after the accused apologized in the presence of CISF personnel at Bagdogra airport. SpiceJet ensured the comfort and safety of the woman throughout the incident. The matter highlights the importance of prompt intervention and passenger safety measures onboard flights.

Forest fires ravaging Chile's Valparaíso region have claimed the lives of at least 51 people, marking the country's deadliest fire incident. President Gabriel Boric declared a state of emergency, mobilizing all available resources to combat the crisis. The health ministry issued a health alert in Valparaíso, suspending elective surgeries and deploying temporary field hospitals. Rescue efforts are hindered by the intensity of the fires, with Interior Minister Carolina Tohá warning of potentially higher casualties. The government urges people to avoid affected areas as firefighters and military personnel battle to contain the blaze. Last year's deadly wildfires suggest an escalating trend in Chile's fire emergencies.          

Shubman Gill's maiden century at No. 3 position propelled India's dominance on Day 3 of the 2nd Test against England. His aggressive innings, scoring 100 runs off 132 balls, shifted momentum in favor of the hosts, complementing Jasprit Bumrah's stellar bowling performance that saw England bundled out for 253 in the first innings. Gill's achievement adds to India's commanding position after opener Yashasvi Jaiswal's maiden Test double hundred on Day 1. With Bumrah's impressive six-wicket haul on Day 2, India maintains the upper hand in the Test match. England, leading the series 1-0, faces an uphill battle to counter India's strong showing in Visakhapatnam.

Iran criticizes the US airstrikes on Iraq and Syria, labeling them a "strategic mistake" after retaliatory strikes hit 85 targets in the region. The White House attributes last week's drone attack on a US military base, which claimed three American soldiers' lives, to an Iran-backed militia group. Iraq and Syria express concerns over the consequences of the strikes on regional stability, with Iraq condemning them as a violation of sovereignty. Meanwhile, President Biden emphasizes the US's selective approach to further strikes while aiming to avoid conflict. The situation escalates amidst heightened tensions, prompting calls for a UN Security Council meeting.

Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (UP ATS) apprehended a Pakistani Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agent, Satyendra Siwal, stationed at the Indian Embassy in Moscow since 2021. Siwal, employed as Multi-Tasking Staff at the Ministry of External Affairs, confessed to espionage after initial denials. Allegations include luring Indian officials for sensitive information on the army and divulging embassy, defense, and external affairs data to ISI. The arrest follows a tip-off regarding espionage activities at the embassy. Siwal's apprehension underscores concerns over foreign infiltration and underscores the need for heightened security measures in diplomatic missions.

A recent report from The Wall Street Journal suggests that associates of Elon Musk, including board members and directors of his companies, are purportedly coerced into using drugs to stay in his favor. Musk, known for his involvement in Tesla and SpaceX, allegedly partakes in substances like ketamine and liquid ecstasy at social gatherings, alongside influential figures like Larry Ellison and James Murdoch. The report highlights concerns over peer pressure and fear of social repercussions among Musk's associates, despite awareness of potential legal and ethical implications. The revelations raise questions about corporate culture and accountability within Musk's inner circle.

President Joe Biden clinched a decisive win in the South Carolina Democratic primary, setting his sights on a rematch with Republican counterpart Donald Trump in November's election. Amid projections of a clear victory over two distant rivals, Biden reiterated his commitment to ousting Trump from office. While scrutinizing results for Black voter support, pivotal in Biden's previous triumph, concerns over turnout emerged in polling stations across Charleston. Despite challenges, Biden expressed optimism about his campaign's trajectory, focusing next on Nevada's primary. As the political landscape intensifies, Democrats aim to consolidate support, while Republicans anticipate a contentious primary showdown.