Author: Gaurang Salkar

At least 16 people, including women and children, have tragically lost their lives due to a toxic gas leak at the Angelo squatter camp in Boksburg, South Africa. The incident, which occurred late Wednesday evening, was initially reported as a gas explosion. However, authorities later confirmed that a gas cylinder containing nitrate oxide had leaked, resulting in this devastating loss of life. The cause of the gas leak remains unknown and is currently under investigation. The Ekurhuleni Emergency Services (EMS) responded to a call about the incident and discovered that the gas leakage originated from a cylinder in one of…

The US-China tech battle has reached a critical turning point as China responds to the recent export controls imposed by the US Commerce Department. In a move that further intensifies the clash between the two economic superpowers, China has imposed its own restrictions on the export of semiconductor chips and high-tech equipment to the United States. This tit-for-tat action underscores the escalating tensions and the high stakes involved in the race for technological dominance. In a notice, the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) and the General Administration of Customs (GAC) said, “in order to safeguard national security and interests, with the…

The regional talks hosted by Jordan aimed at ending Syria’s political isolation and reintegrating Damascus into the Arab fold have highlighted the crucial role of the Jordan-Syrian relationship. Over the years, Jordan has played a significant role in facilitating dialogue and engagement with Syria, even during the country’s period of political isolation. As Jordan continues to navigate the complex regional dynamics, it has emerged as a key mediator, hosting diplomatic discussions and fostering regional cooperation. Focus on Political Solution and Humanitarian Needs During the recent talks, Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi emphasized the importance of finding a political solution to…

The 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, hosted by India, brings together world leaders, including President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Iran’s representatives. This virtual gathering serves as a platform to enhance regional cooperation, address pressing global challenges, and underscore the collective efforts of these influential leaders. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization: Countering Western Alliances The SCO, comprising China, Russia, India, Pakistan, and Central Asian countries, seeks to counterbalance Western alliances and promote cooperation on security, military collaboration, and internal trade. This summit serves as a testament to the organization’s commitment to…

Myanmar’s ousted leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, is scheduled to have her appeals heard by the Supreme Court this month. Suu Kyi was convicted on various charges following the military coup in February 2021. The cases against her are widely regarded as attempts by the military to discredit and sideline her politically. The Supreme Court hearings will determine the fate of Suu Kyi, who has been held incommunicado since her arrest. Challenging Unjust Convictions Suu Kyi’s legal team is set to present her appeals to the Supreme Court on July 5. Two cases involve her convictions for election fraud and…

India has undergone a notable shift in its stance regarding the 2016 arbitration award that invalidated China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea. In collaboration with the Philippines, India has explicitly called for adherence to the award, marking a significant departure from its previous cautious position. This change reflects evolving perspectives in New Delhi and Manila, as well as shifting geopolitical dynamics in the region. India’s Changing Position In July 2016, an arbitration tribunal under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea ruled in favor of the Philippines, rejecting China’s aggressive actions in the disputed waters rich…

In a significant ruling, a Thai court has cleared five anti-government protesters of charges related to attempting violence against Queen Suthida during a 2020 demonstration in Bangkok. The case emerged amidst pro-democracy protests that called for curbs on the king’s powers and the resignation of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha. The defendants were indicted under a rarely used law that prohibits attempted violence against senior royals, carrying a minimum sentence of 16 years in prison. However, the court determined that the protesters were not aware of the incoming royal motorcade and did not intentionally obstruct it. Background of the Protests Thailand…

The United Nations has issued a grim warning, stating that Sudan is likely to witness a mass exodus of over 1 million refugees by October as the country continues to grapple with escalating violence. The 10-week conflict, which erupted in mid-April between the military and paramilitary forces, has resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced approximately 2.5 million people. The capital, Khartoum, and the western Darfur region have borne the brunt of the violence, with reports of targeted attacks on non-Arab tribes. Despite intermittent cease-fires, peace negotiations have faltered, leaving Sudan on the brink of a humanitarian catastrophe. Sudan’s Descent…

In a dramatic turn of events, the Senate and the National Assembly of Pakistan have passed the Elections (Amendment) Bill 2024, which includes significant changes to the election process and the disqualification period for lawmakers. The bill empowers the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to unilaterally determine the date for general elections without consulting the president. Additionally, it limits the disqualification of lawmakers to a maximum of five years with retrospective effect. Senate Passage: Opposition claims “person-specific legislation” The Senate passed the bill, which originally focused on empowering the ECP, but a controversial amendment limiting the disqualification period was added…

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Grand Mufti of Egypt, Shawky Ibrahim Abdel-Karim Allam, recently held a significant meeting in Egypt. During their encounter, they discussed various aspects of promoting social harmony, countering extremism, and deepening cooperation between India and Egypt. The meeting highlighted the importance of fostering inclusivity and pluralism in society. The Grand Mufti’s statement after the meeting emphasized the positive developments in India under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and expressed optimism for future cooperation. This article provides an overview of the meeting and its significance in strengthening relations between the two nations. Prime Minister Modi’s Visit…