Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said India's actions are negatively impacting millions in both countries after Canada confirmed withdrawing 41 diplomats from India. Canada called India's move unreasonable and escalatory following India's demand to reduce Canadian diplomatic presence for parity. The fallout stems from Trudeau publicly alleging India's role in a Sikh separatist leader's killing, which India rejected and accused Canada of harboring terrorists. Trudeau said the diplomat expulsion will delay visa services in India. India accused the diplomats of interference in internal affairs amidst the diplomatic row triggered by Trudeau's accusations over the separatist leader's killing, which India denies.

Reserve Bank of India Governor Shaktikanta Das said the Israel-Hamas war has impacted India but the country remains economically strong. He stated India's macroeconomic fundamentals and financial sector continue to be sound amid global uncertainty. Das said India is well-placed on key parameters despite crude oil price rise concerns as a major importer. He emphasized monetary policy must stay focused on easing inflation given uncertain food and oil price outlooks. Das noted any domestic fuel price hikes would impact inflation more than global crude prices. He reiterated India's economic resilience despite geopolitical tensions impacting markets.

Christian Arab Israeli activist Yoseph Haddad has become Israel's most influential global communicator. He firmly states Israel must "exterminate Hamas" through continued bombing and a Gaza ground invasion, noting the IDF is very well prepared. Haddad says Israel will do anything to wipe out Hamas from the face of the earth. He wants to convey to Gaza civilians not to fall prey to Hamas tactics and be used as human shields. Haddad staunchly supports Israel decisively defeating Hamas militarily while avoiding civilian casualties.

The Royal Bahrain Hospital terminated Dr. Sunil Rao, an Indian-origin doctor, after he expressed support for Israel on social media amid the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, where nearly 3,000 people have died. The hospital stated that his tweets were offensive and violated their code of conduct. Dr. Rao issued an apology, acknowledging the insensitivity of his remarks. Meanwhile, concerns grow about a wider Middle East conflict, with increased attacks on US military bases in Iraq and Syria. Additionally, an American destroyer intercepted cruise missiles and drones launched by Yemen-based Houthi militants toward Israel.

Kerala-based Maryan Apparel is ceasing its long-standing contract to manufacture Israeli police uniforms due to moral concerns amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. Managing Director Thomas Olickal cited the recent Gaza hospital strike and loss of innocent lives as reasons for the decision. The firm, which supplied around one lakh uniforms annually since 2015, will complete existing commitments but not accept new orders. This move reflects a growing trend of companies reevaluating their engagements in response to ethical considerations during the conflict.

Iraqi military bases housing U.S. forces were hit by rockets and drones in a series of attacks, marking the fourth such incident within 24 hours. Ain al-Asad air base in western Iraq, hosting U.S. and international troops, was targeted, along with a military base near Baghdad's airport. It remains unclear if there were casualties or significant damage. Last week, Iraqi groups aligned with Iran had threatened to attack U.S. interests if Washington intervened in support of Israel against Hamas. The U.S. has 2,500 troops in Iraq, assisting local forces against ISIS.      

Israel has initiated the evacuation of more than 20,000 residents from Kiryat Shmona, a major town along its northern border with Lebanon, following intense cross-border clashes. The area has witnessed ongoing but limited conflicts since the recent Gaza war. Israeli forces and Lebanon's Hezbollah group engaged in heavy exchanges of fire, resulting in casualties, including a journalist. Israel declared closed military zones along the border, expanding operational freedom against Hezbollah. The situation heightens concerns of a broader regional conflict, prompting evacuations and military responses. The Committee to Protect Journalists is investigating journalists' safety amidst the escalating tensions.

Dhordo village in Gujarat has been bestowed with the prestigious title of "Best Tourism Village" by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The Ministry of Tourism celebrated this achievement, recognizing Dhordo's exceptional commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism practices. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter, expressing his delight and sharing fond memories of his visits to Dhordo in 2009 and 2015. He encouraged people to share their own experiences using #AmazingDhordo, aiming to inspire more travelers to explore this culturally rich and naturally beautiful destination.

After Canada withdrew its 41 diplomats from India, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement saying the move was warranted due to the higher number of Canadian diplomats in India, their continued interference in India's affairs, and the state of bilateral relations. The MEA said India's actions to implement parity in diplomatic presence are consistent with the Vienna Convention and cannot be portrayed as a violation of international norms. The statement rejects Canada's claim that India violated diplomatic norms by threatening to revoke diplomats' status. The MEA defends India's actions as legally justified given the circumstances. To read full statement, click on the link below 

In a thrilling moment for Team India, Ravindra Jadeja was named the 'Best Fielder' after their victory against Bangladesh in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. His exceptional catch to dismiss Mushfiqur Rahim left the crowd awestruck. The dressing room was filled with jubilation as KL Rahul, the wicket-keeper, proudly bestowed the award on Jadeja. India's formidable run-chase, led by captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's outstanding performance, solidified their triumph. With this win, India continues their winning streak, gearing up for their next challenge against New Zealand in Dharamsala. meanwhile Hardik Pandya ruled out of New Zealand game with ankle injury.