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Recent days have seen a surge in cross-border violence between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistan accuses Afghan militants of attacks, including a convoy ambush and bombings, while Afghanistan blames Pakistan for strikes inside its territory. The situation remains tense with ongoing military operations and accusations of regional support for insurgents. Today is Sun, 12 Oct 2025.
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India has resumed diplomatic ties with Afghanistan by reopening its embassy in Kabul and hosting Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. The visit, the first by a Taliban leader since 2021, aims to strengthen regional cooperation, trade, and stability, despite ongoing international sanctions and regional tensions.
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On October 8, 2025, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva warned that global economic resilience is untested amid rising uncertainty. Despite 3% growth forecasts and easing tariffs, gold prices hit $4,000 an ounce as investors seek safe havens. She urged the US to address federal debt and highlighted risks from trade tensions and geopolitical instability ahead of IMF-World Bank meetings.
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A coordinated attack on a police training facility in Ratta Kulachi near Dera Ismail Khan resulted in seven police deaths and multiple injuries. The assault involved a suicide truck bomb and gunfire, with security forces killing six militants. The banned group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan initially claimed responsibility but later denied involvement. The attack highlights ongoing security challenges in northwestern Pakistan.
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Pakistan's federal Cabinet has approved a ban on the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) following violent protests and clashes during a march from Lahore to Islamabad. The government accuses the group of inciting violence and extremism, with authorities searching for its leader Saad Rizvi. The ban marks the second time TLP has been outlawed in recent years.
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Since Saturday night, Pakistani and Afghan Taliban forces have engaged in deadly clashes along their shared border, following alleged Pakistani airstrikes in Kabul. Both sides report significant casualties, with Pakistan closing border crossings and regional powers urging restraint. The conflict stems from Pakistan's accusations that Afghanistan harbors militants attacking Pakistan, a charge denied by the Taliban government.
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Leaders from over 20 countries, including Egypt, the US, and European nations, are convening in Sharm el-Sheikh to discuss Gaza's future amid a recent ceasefire. The summit aims to promote regional stability, support reconstruction, and address the ongoing conflict, with key players like Hamas and Israel absent.
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Recent border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan have resulted in casualties on both sides, with Pakistan claiming to have killed over 200 Taliban fighters and Afghanistan reporting the deaths of Pakistani soldiers. The ceasefire was reportedly at Afghanistan's request, but violence continues to threaten regional stability amid accusations and diplomatic tensions.
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A female polio vaccination team was shot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, amid a nationwide campaign to immunize children. The attack, suspected to be by militants, follows ongoing violence targeting health workers. Pakistan continues to struggle with polio transmission, with 29 cases reported this year.
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Recent updates to the Henley Passport Index show notable declines for the US, UK, Pakistan, and India, while China and several Asian countries have improved their rankings. The US has fallen out of the top 10 for the first time in 20 years, reflecting changing global mobility and diplomatic shifts.
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Recent volcanic activity includes a new eruption at Kanlaon in the Philippines, ongoing signs of activity at Iran's Taftan, and multiple eruptions on Indonesia's Flores island. Authorities warn of potential hazards, urging vigilance and monitoring. No casualties reported so far.
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A ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan was established on October 22, ending a week of intense border clashes that resulted in civilian casualties and military casualties on both sides. The ceasefire, initiated after diplomatic efforts, aims to de-escalate tensions and facilitate dialogue, with a joint mechanism scheduled for October 25 in Istanbul to ensure implementation.
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Recent border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan have resulted in the deadliest violence since 2021, with at least 17 civilians killed on the Afghan side. A ceasefire was agreed upon after escalation, amid accusations and denials over militant harboring and cross-border strikes. Tensions remain high along the 2,611 km Durand Line.
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As of late October 2025, US-India trade talks remain stalled amid tensions over India's discounted Russian crude imports. President Trump claims Prime Minister Modi assured him India will soon halt these purchases, but India has not formally confirmed this. The US maintains 50% tariffs on Indian goods, complicating efforts to finalize a trade deal before India's November state elections.
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A 48-hour ceasefire between Afghanistan and Pakistan ended with renewed border violence. Pakistan launched strikes in Afghan border areas, killing civilians and cricket players, while Afghanistan responded with drone attacks. Both sides blame each other for escalating hostilities, which threaten regional stability.
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Recent clashes and airstrikes between Pakistan and Afghanistan have heightened tensions. A bombing in Hangu and cross-border strikes in Paktika follow a fragile ceasefire, with both sides blaming each other for aggression amid ongoing peace talks. The situation remains volatile as border crossings stay closed.
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After days of border clashes, Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed to a ceasefire in Doha, but recent airstrikes by Pakistan in Afghan territory have broken the truce. The violence, linked to militant groups and regional tensions, has resulted in civilian casualties and heightened fears of renewed conflict.
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Delhi has conducted a cloud seeding trial to mitigate pollution, releasing chemicals into clouds to induce rain. Despite this, air quality remains in the 'very poor' category, with experts criticizing the method's effectiveness and calling for long-term emission reductions. Authorities expect brief rainfall, but pollution persists.
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Pakistan’s top cricketers have been cleared to participate in the Big Bash League (BBL) after weeks of uncertainty. The approval follows a resolution by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Cricket Australia. Notably, Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin will play the full season, marking a potential shift in international T20 league participation.
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Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed direct flights to the UK after a five-year ban due to safety concerns. The UK lifted restrictions in July 2025 following safety reforms, with the first flight from Islamabad to Manchester operating Saturday. PIA plans to expand to London and Birmingham, boosting economic and cultural ties.
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Recent fossil studies reveal a close link between extinct Australian carnivorous marsupials and koalas, while conservation efforts in Nigeria and Okinawa show signs of success. Meanwhile, Thailand's artificial reefs are aiding marine ecosystems, and Hong Kong seeks to expand marine protected areas amid biodiversity concerns.
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Recent border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan have resulted in casualties and economic losses, prompting diplomatic talks in Istanbul. Despite a ceasefire brokered by Qatar and Turkey, tensions persist, with both sides blaming each other for ongoing violence. Leaders aim to de-escalate and restore stability.
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Recent surveys highlight widespread delays in end-of-life planning, with many avoiding difficult conversations. Meanwhile, countries are increasingly banning smartphones in schools to combat digital overuse among children, reflecting concerns over mental health and social development.
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On November 14, 2025, Chinese astronauts Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie safely returned to Earth after a nine-day delay caused by space debris damage to their original Shenzhou-20 return capsule. They landed in the Gobi Desert aboard the newer Shenzhou-21 spacecraft. The incident highlights growing risks from orbital debris amid China's expanding space ambitions.
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WomenX Biotech, based in Hong Kong, developed a menstrual blood HPV test called PadX, claiming 99.2% accuracy. The government dismissed the product citing insufficient evidence, prompting the company to plan further discussions. The story highlights tensions between innovation and regulation in health tech.
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Senator Rubio emphasizes US efforts to strengthen relations with Pakistan without harming India, amid regional tensions. The US seeks to expand strategic partnerships, including defense and energy deals, as regional dynamics shift following US withdrawal from Afghanistan and evolving Indo-Pak relations.
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Babar Azam surpassed Rohit Sharma to become the top scorer in men's T20 Internationals during Pakistan's win over South Africa on October 31, 2025. The milestone marks a significant achievement after a period of recent struggles, with Azam now leading the world with 4,234 runs in 123 innings.
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Malaysia considers aligning its dividend policy with European peers to improve financial discipline and strengthen its balance sheet. Meanwhile, Pakistan reports economic stabilization and deepening ties with the UAE, reflecting regional confidence and growing trade and investment cooperation.
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Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to a ceasefire following recent border clashes and failed peace talks. Despite ongoing tensions, both sides are maintaining the ceasefire, though border crossings remain closed. The situation remains fragile as negotiations continue with regional mediators, with recent violence and diplomatic disputes complicating efforts for lasting peace.
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President Trump ordered the Pentagon to restart nuclear testing, claiming it would be system tests and not nuclear explosions. Experts warn this could trigger a new arms race, but officials emphasize tests will be non-critical. The move raises concerns about global stability and treaty commitments.
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The US has announced it will resume non-nuclear system tests of its nuclear weapons, citing concerns over China's nuclear buildup. The tests involve components, not detonations, and aim to ensure weapon reliability. Critics question the justification and potential escalation of nuclear tensions.
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On November 18, 2025, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met President Donald Trump at the White House to advance a U.S.-Saudi defense pact, including arms sales like F-35 jets, and discuss economic cooperation. Saudi Arabia remains firm that normalization with Israel hinges on a credible, time-bound pathway to Palestinian statehood. Meanwhile, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia are restoring commercial ties after years of strain.
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Most Asian financial institutions remain unprepared for the security risks posed by emerging quantum computing, which could break current encryption and destabilize digital finance. Governments and banks are launching initiatives, but regional coordination and regulation lag behind technological advances, with experts warning of regional vulnerabilities within the next decade.
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Germany has suspended its program to relocate about 2,000 Afghans at risk under Taliban rule, citing migration concerns. Approved individuals in Pakistan face delays or offers of financial incentives to return to Afghanistan or third countries. Some approved refugees have arrived in Germany, but the scheme remains largely halted.
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As of November 2025, over 1,400 Africans from 36 countries, including Kenya and South Africa, have been recruited by Russia to fight in Ukraine under false pretenses. Many are deceived with promises of jobs, coerced into signing military contracts, and sent to deadly frontline assaults. South Africa is investigating 17 citizens trapped in Ukraine, while Ukraine urges recruits to desert and seek prisoner-of-war status.
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Negotiations between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Istanbul ended without a deal, amid ongoing border clashes and mutual accusations. Pakistan blames Afghanistan for harboring militants and seeks to curb cross-border violence, while Afghanistan denies sheltering militant groups and criticizes Islamabad’s approach. Tensions remain high as both sides threaten renewed hostilities.
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Recent peace negotiations between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Istanbul ended without agreement, amid ongoing border clashes and mutual accusations. Both sides blame each other for violence and failure to uphold commitments, with border crossings remaining closed and tensions high. The talks aimed to reduce hostilities but have entered an indefinite pause.
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On Monday, Nov 10, 2025, a car exploded near New Delhi's historic Red Fort, killing at least 13 and injuring over 20. Authorities have classified it as a terrorist incident under India's anti-terrorism law. Investigations link the blast to a militant cell with alleged ties to Pakistan-based groups. Over 650 detentions and multiple arrests, including Kashmiri doctors, have followed amid heightened security and political tensions.
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On Tuesday, a suicide bomber detonated explosives outside Islamabad's District Judicial Complex, killing at least 12 and injuring over 30. The attack, claimed by a Pakistani Taliban faction, marks the first major assault on civilians in Islamabad in over a decade. Pakistani officials accuse Afghan-based militants and India-backed proxies, escalating tensions with Afghanistan amid ongoing border clashes and failed peace talks.
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As of late November 2025, the US, UK, Canada, and Japan face an early, severe flu season driven by the H3N2 subclade K variant, which has mutated beyond current vaccine strains. Hospital admissions and flu cases, especially among children and vulnerable groups, are rising. Concurrently, norovirus infections are doubling nationwide, with health officials urging hygiene and vaccination to mitigate risks.
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Pakistani authorities detained two men suspected of links to the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in connection with a suicide bombing at Islamabad's district court. The attack killed at least 12 and injured over 30. The suspects reportedly received orders via Telegram from a TTP commander based in Afghanistan. The incident highlights ongoing militant threats despite security efforts.
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Pakistan has passed sweeping constitutional amendments that significantly expand military powers, including lifetime immunity for top military leaders and the creation of a new Chief of Defence Forces role. The reforms also establish a Federal Constitutional Court, replacing the Supreme Court for constitutional cases, amid opposition protests and concerns over democratic erosion.
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Pakistan attributes recent suicide bombings and attacks to Afghan nationals linked to the Pakistani Taliban, claiming arrests and ongoing investigations. Tensions with Afghanistan have escalated amid cross-border clashes and accusations of harboring militants, raising concerns over regional stability.
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Recent studies highlight the health risks of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), linking them to obesity, cancer, heart disease, and depression. Experts warn that industry influence and weak policies hinder regulation, risking worsening global diet quality and health outcomes.
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A bomb explosion near New Delhi's Red Fort on Nov. 10 killed at least 10 people. Authorities linked the attack to Kashmir, detaining suspects and conducting raids. A dry fruit seller, stressed by detention, self-immolated and died. Explosive mishandling at a Kashmir police station caused a subsequent blast, killing nine.
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A Tejas fighter jet, developed by India, crashed during a demonstration at Dubai World Central, killing its pilot. The incident occurred on the final day of the Dubai Airshow, marking the second crash involving the aircraft. The crash raises questions about India’s military modernization efforts and export ambitions.
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The Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia's Afar region erupted on Sunday, sending ash clouds across Yemen, Oman, India, and Pakistan. No casualties reported, but villages are covered in ash, affecting livestock and travel. The eruption is the first in 12,000 years, with ongoing regional impacts.
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Recent cross-border violence has intensified, with Pakistan launching air strikes in Afghan border regions following deadly militant attacks in Pakistan. Both sides blame each other for harboring militants, with ongoing clashes and failed peace talks raising regional instability. The situation remains volatile as civilian casualties mount.
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Turkish authorities arrested three defence company executives on suspicion of spying for foreign powers, initially linking them to the UAE, but later removing that detail. The suspects are accused of attempting to share employee biographical data. Turkey's defence exports increased significantly in 2024, driven by military drone sales.
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South Africa secured a rare Test series win in India, defeating the hosts 2-0 with a dominant performance. Meanwhile, the IPL is preparing for its 2026 season, with key players like Maxwell stepping away. The ICC announced a 20-team tournament across India and Sri Lanka starting February 2026, featuring new formats and venues.