hostage deal

Is an Iran deal actually close, or is Trump prepared to wait? Here’s what we know about what each side may give up on the six issues that matter most

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and external affairs minister S Jaishankar reaffirmed strong US-India strategic ties, highlighting cooperation in defence, trade, energy and technology. Rubio said US visa reforms were global, not India-specific, while condemning racist remarks against Indian Americans. Both leaders discussed energy security, Quad cooperation, trade negotiations, Iran tensions and India’s multi-alignment foreign policy approach.

After years of being labeled a 'banter club' for their beautiful yet often ineffective play, Arsenal has finally broken their Premier League drought. Under Mikel Arteta, the team embraced a more pragmatic and resilient style, prioritizing set-piece dominance and an 'us-vs-them' mentality to secure their first title since 2004.

A version of the British Parliament has been around since 1265 in one form or another, and has survived murderous kings, civil and world wars, lord protectors, skirmishes that inspired the Game of Thrones Red Wedding, and one lettuce that briefly became a constitutional actor. It has seen its fair share of entertaining characters.

San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch indicated a trade for wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is a “prudent thing to do,” as the team has a crowded wide receiver room. Concerns about Aiyuk’s communication skills and a comparison to Baker Mayfield’s situation with the Cleveland Browns highlight the urgency for a potential trade to the Washington Commanders before the training camp. This could give Aiyuk time to develop in Washington.

India’s answer to Claude Mythos is one or more homegrown AI models as powerful as, if not more powerful than, Mythos. For this, Government of India needs to take the lead. Time is of the essence here

Many Pak generals have cosied up to US presidents. So, this version isn’t surprising. Deals, like on cryptocurrency, cringe-worthy flattery, and Pak-Saudi-Türkiye-Egypt emerging quad have made Munir the go-between. But, any peace talk is good for India

President Trump and PM Modi discussed West Asia's security, including the importance of securing safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. The leaders also reviewed significant progress in bilateral cooperation, with "incredible deals" in energy and other sectors anticipated soon. Ambassador Gor highlighted the strong relationship and focus on tangible results.

The accused, three financiers, beat him up with sticks and confined him to a room

Oil prices dipped, markets rose and world leaders welcomed the pause in the war. However, a lot remains uncertain, including the restoration of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz

Get ready for a blast from the past! The beloved 1987 sci-fi comedy 'Spaceballs' is officially getting a sequel, slated for release on April 23, 2027. Original stars Mel Brooks and Rick Moranis are set to return, joined by newcomers like Josh Gad and Keke Palmer. Director Josh Greenbaum is at the helm for this highly anticipated follow-up.

Iran's proposal to levy transit fees on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil route, is emerging as a new flashpoint. This move, aimed at generating revenue and exerting geopolitical leverage, challenges international maritime law and could disrupt global trade, pushing energy markets into uncertainty. Nations like India have rejected the idea.

The loss of U.S. aircraft and a missing pilot in Iran presents a critical political test for President Trump, whose image of invincibility is challenged by the escalating conflict. A high-stakes rescue operation is underway, with the outcome potentially validating or undermining his claims of strong leadership.

The Election Commission has handed over the investigation into the gherao of judicial officers in Malda, West Bengal, to the National Investigation Agency. This move follows strong criticism from the Supreme Court regarding the state's "complete failure" to protect officers during electoral roll revision. An NIA team is set to begin its probe soon.

Iran's leadership that survives face difficulty communicating and are unable to meet in person, as a result of which its abilities to plan new strategies or negotiate with the has been hit.

An adviser to Israeli govt argues that Tel Aviv & Washington must see the conflict to its ‘logical end’. Else, the region will live in perpetual fear of the Ayatollahs, and their missiles, nuclear programme, and terror proxies

The notion lives on in a post-colonial society where English – and who has access to it – is a marker of civility and civilisation. The Higgins-Macaulay Complex continues to haunt post-colonial societies, but there are times when the English language can be oddly prescient.

An 8-year-old Israeli-Irish girl, Emily Hand, was thought to be dead but was released as part of the Israel-Hamas hostage deal. She was at a sleepover at Kibbutz Be'eri when Hamas attacked Israel border settlements, killing 1,200 people and kidnapping about 240 more. Emily's father, Thomas Hand, initially received news of her death but later learned she might be alive. After 50 challenging days, Emily has been reunited with her family, bringing immense joy to them and the people of Ireland.

President Joe Biden remarked that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is not adequately working towards securing a deal for the release of hostages held by Hamas. Following the recovery of six hostages' bodies, Biden indicated he is close to presenting a final proposal, reflecting mounting pressures on Netanyahu amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict.

United States National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan highlighted that the negotiators have come to an "understanding" on the basic contours of a hostage deal to release hostages held by the Hamas terror group in exchange for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza, as reported by CNN.

President Biden urges Egypt and Qatar to pressure Hamas for a hostage deal with Israel. Efforts for cease-fire intensified. Negotiations aim for hostages' release amid urgent conditions in Gaza conflict.

Amid rising tensions in West Asia and fears of the ongoing conflict between the Israeli forces and Hamas spreading to Rafah, which is home to several refugee camps; Israel issued a stern warning, saying that it was giving the ongoing negotiations to secure a hostage deal a 'last chance' before launching a ground offensive in the 'land port' between Gaza and Egypt, the Times of Israel reported.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has hinted at a potential deal to free hostages being held in the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu declined to provide details, stating that he didn't want to jeopardize the plan. He did, however, confirm that negotiations have taken place over a possible three-day ceasefire in exchange for the release of a dozen hostages, including six Americans. Netanyahu stressed that Israel is committed to rescuing the hostages and destroying Hamas. He also agreed with the US position that a pause in fighting is necessary to ensure the safe release of the hostages.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused Iran of holding the world hostage through retaliatory strikes following US-Israeli attacks that killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Rubio stated Washington is on track to achieve its war objectives against Tehran, aiming to destroy Iran's ability to target neighboring states and civilian infrastructure.

Israeli troops are expanding their operation in the Gaza Strip while Qatari mediators claim they are close to reaching a deal to free some of the 240 hostages held by Hamas militants. Israel has warned residents of Gaza's largest refugee camp to evacuate as the military expands its operational activities. The Israeli army is focusing on targeting terrorists and striking Hamas infrastructure. The UN rights chief has condemned the strikes on civilians in Gaza, and Israel is facing international pressure to justify its actions. Efforts to bring the hostages home are said to be progressing.

President Biden calls on Egypt and Qatar to mediate a hostage deal with Israel amidst Gaza conflict. National security adviser Sullivan to meet hostages' families. CIA Director Burns in Cairo for crisis talks. Focus on temporary cease-fire for hostage exchange and aid. Biden stresses releasing vulnerable hostages.

President Joe Biden announced a three-phase ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, ending a 15-month conflict. The agreement includes a ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the release of hostages, including Americans. Negotiations involved the US, Egypt, and Qatar, with the UN Security Council's endorsement. The deal aims to halt Gaza fighting and reunite families.

Pope Francis met with relatives of Israeli hostages in Gaza and Palestinian prisoners in Israel, urging for peace and an end to terrorism. He expressed concern for the suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians. The meetings were arranged before the recent Israeli-Hamas hostage deal and temporary halt in fighting. The Pope did not mention the deal but emphasized the need for peace and prayer. He also asked for God's help in resolving the problems and avoiding further violence. The Vatican is particularly concerned about the situation of Christians in Gaza.