Global news updates, international affairs, and major headlines from around the world.
World, Specials
Khawaja Asif Likens Pakistan to America's 'Disposable Toilet Paper' Ally
Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif described US-Pakistan relations as treating Pakistan "worse than toilet paper," emphasizing a historical pattern where the US uses Pakistan for strategic goals and discards it afterward. The metaphor highlights transactional alliances from the Cold War to Afghanistan wars, with Pakistan bearing costs like radicalization, refugees, and terrorism while gaining short-term aid. Asif's remarks reflect frustration over lack of reciprocity and Pakistan's desperation driven by India rivalry, perpetuating cycles of servitude in bilateral ties.

World
DHS 'Worst of the Worst' List Includes 89 Indian Offenders
US DHS launched a public database listing 25,000+ arrested immigrants as "worst of the worst" criminals, including 89 Indians convicted of drug, sexual, violent, and financial offenses. The searchable site features names, mugshots, crimes, and locations to promote transparency under Trump enforcement. Critics argue it reinforces stereotypes without context, while DHS emphasizes focusing on serious offenders for public reassurance.
World
BNP's 'Bangladesh First' Manifesto Signals Neutrality on India
Ahead of February 12, 2026 elections, BNP leader Tarique Rahman unveiled a "Bangladesh First" manifesto pledging non-alignment with India or Pakistan, strict border measures, and minority protections amid strained ties under Yunus. Jamaat's manifesto promises "peaceful" India relations but prioritizes Muslim nations, omitting Pakistan. With BNP and Jamaat neck-and-neck in polls, the election could reshape India's regional influence amid rising anti-India sentiment and Hindu attacks.

World
Vikas Nath Admits Spiking Drink, Claims No Sexual Intent
UK-based Indian millionaire restaurateur Vikas Nath, 63, admitted spiking a woman's drink at London's Annabel's club on January 15, 2024, but denied sexual intent, claiming it was to "relax" her. Staff intercepted the spiked margarita after seeing him add GBL from a vanilla extract bottle. The woman, who met Nath several times previously, felt betrayed, especially after his earlier warnings about drink spiking. The case at Southwark Crown Court reveals Nath's strange habit of tasting drinks with a straw. He owns high-end restaurants in UK and Spain. The incident highlights trust breaches in social settings.
World
Frisco Council Clash Over Alleged Indian H-1B Takeover
A Frisco, Texas city council meeting erupted into heated confrontation as right-wing protesters accused Indian-origin residents of an "Indian takeover" through H-1B visa fraud, claiming demographic shifts and job displacement. Non-local critics wearing America First symbols alleged council complicity, while Indian-American attendees defended contributions to schools, parks, and economy. Influencers mobilized the protest amid broader anti-H-1B sentiment following Texas Governor's hiring freeze. Mayor emphasized inclusivity, noting Frisco's diverse growth from immigration. The showdown reflects national debates on visas, demographics, and local governance.

World
Trump’s Preemptive Posts on Xi, Modi Talks
US President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social about his call with Xi Jinping before Beijing’s readout, claiming deals on agriculture and energy that Xinhua omitted. Similar to his claims after Modi talks on trade and oil purchases, which India denied. The pattern highlights Trump’s tendency to publicize self-aggrandizing versions of diplomatic exchanges, bypassing protocol and leaving claims unsubstantiated. Critics see it as overreach, potentially straining relations.

World
Elon Musk Highlights India-China Driving 2026 Global Economic Growth
Elon Musk shared IMF data showing Asia leading global economic growth in 2026, with China and India contributing 43.6% of real GDP expansion—India alone at 17%, US at 9.9%. Global growth forecasted at 3.3%, India's revised to 7.3% for 2025 moderating to 6.4% in 2026-2027. Musk noted the "balance of power is changing" amid trade tensions and moderating inflation, emphasizing Asia's rising role in the world economy. The post underscores shifting dynamics with emerging markets outpacing developed ones.

World
Elon Musk Highlights India-China Driving 2026 Global Economic Growth
Elon Musk shared IMF data showing Asia leading global economic growth in 2026, with China and India contributing 43.6% of real GDP expansion—India alone at 17%, US at 9.9%. Global growth forecasted at 3.3%, India's revised to 7.3% for 2025 moderating to 6.4% in 2026-2027. Musk noted the "balance of power is changing" amid trade tensions and moderating inflation, emphasizing Asia's rising role in the world economy. The post underscores shifting dynamics with emerging markets outpacing developed ones.

World
BLA Coordinated Attacks In Pak: A Wake-Up Call To US, China
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) launched "Herof 2" coordinated attacks across multiple Balochistan locations targeting civilians security forces government buildings prisons highways. Casualties around 200 including civilians personnel rebels per varying claims. BLA freed prisoners abducted officials. Described wake-up call US China due CPEC projects mineral investments security risks. Pakistan military claimed killing 145 rebels. Attacks highlight ongoing Baloch insurgency grievances resource exploitation foreign involvement.
World
Team Trump Warns Europe Funds Russia War Through India-EU Deal
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent accused Europe of indirectly funding Russia's Ukraine war by signing the India-EU trade deal, as Europeans purchase refined Russian oil from India despite phasing out direct Moscow imports. The US has imposed 25% tariffs on India for Russian oil buys as part of broader 50% duties. Bessent highlighted sacrifice imbalance, noting Trump's leadership aims to end the war. The warning underscores tensions in US-India-EU relations amid the newly concluded "mother of all trade deals." India defends energy choices as sovereign.

