QUICKREADS

Pakistan's Balochistan faces Internet crackdown during protests against targeted killings
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) reported that Pakistani security forces obstructed protests against rising targeted killings of Baloch youth in Zehri, Khuzdar, and implemented an internet shutdown. Despite these efforts, many joined the rally, condemning the violence and repression faced by the Baloch community. BYC plans further protests to address ongoing systematic persecution and human rights abuses in Balochistan.

Nikki Haley says ‘India had every right to retaliate’, slams Pakistan for playing the ‘victim’
Nikki Haley supports India's Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam terror attack, criticizing Pakistan for playing the victim. She asserts India's right to retaliate against terrorists, emphasizing no country should be excused for supporting terrorist activities.

India trade pact to be signed after three months, India official says
India and the UK are set to sign a bilateral trade deal in three months, with implementation taking over a year. The agreement includes separate import quotas for combustion and electric vehicles, phased tariff cuts, and provisions regarding carbon taxes. Additionally, India aims to boost the competitiveness of British Scotch whisky in its market.

US energy companies seek exemption from Trump plan to move LNG on US-built ships
U.S. energy groups are urging the Trump administration to exempt liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments from new rules mandating an increasing percentage of exports be carried on U.S.-built vessels. The industry fears this could disadvantage U.S. exporters due to insufficient domestic shipbuilding capacity, jeopardizing the progress made toward U.S. energy dominance.

Red Cross appeals to governments to act now to end Gaza 'horror'
The Red Cross director-general urged immediate government action to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, highlighting the dire conditions and the closure of community kitchens due to supply shortages. He emphasized the moral implications of the conflict, warning that the ongoing suffering threatens the very essence of humanity and called for urgent intervention to prevent further disaster.

Guinea aims to pull EGA's licence over alumina refinery row, sources say
Guinea plans to revoke Emirates Global Aluminium's mining license due to the company's failure to build a promised alumina refinery, escalating a dispute that began with the suspension of EGA's bauxite exports. The government, seeking to increase local mineral processing, has warned EGA about its commitments, which could disrupt global aluminium supply chains.

Bill Gates accuses Elon Musk of ‘killing children’; warns about global disaster
Bill Gates criticized Elon Musk for cutting USAID funding, claiming it endangers children in poor countries. Gates argued that Musk's actions, through the Department of Government Efficiency, could lead to a resurgence of diseases like HIV and measles due to halted aid. Gates plans to close his foundation by 2045, aiming to donate most of his wealth to humanitarian causes.

ED attaches assets worth ₹5,000 cr in US, UAE, Thailand in investors' 'fraud' case
The Enforcement Directorate has provisionally attached 30 assets in the US, UAE, and Thailand linked to a Rs 5,000 crore money laundering investigation involving the 'Pan card club' fraud. The assets, belonging to Panoramic Universal Ltd and accused Sudhir Moravekar, were acquired using illicit funds. The case involves unauthorized investments from millions of Indians between 1997-2017.
Bill Gates to give away 99% of wealth, Gates Foundation to close by 2045
Bill Gates announced the Gates Foundation will close in 2045 after donating 99% of his $107 billion wealth. Over the next 20 years, the foundation aims to spend an additional $200 billion on global health, education, and poverty alleviation. Gates encourages other billionaires to match or exceed his philanthropic efforts, emphasizing the foundation's impactful legacy since its inception in 2000.
Trump declares May 8 a national holiday. Here's what to know
Trump declares new national holidays on November 11 and May 8 to commemorate US involvement in World Wars I and II, highlighting American contributions without disrupting work schedules or closing institutions.

Donald Trump takes over first lady duties, redesigns Rose Garden and greets tours as Melania MIA
Donald Trump assumes first lady duties, greeting tours and redesigning the Rose Garden, as Melania remains largely absent from the White House, spending most time in New York or Florida during his presidency.

German spy agency pauses 'extremist' classification for AfD party
Germany's domestic spy agency BfV has paused its classification of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) as an extremist group pending a court ruling. This decision has sparked political controversy, with the AfD claiming it as a partial victory against what they see as a politically motivated attack. The BfV maintains its assessment of the party as racist and anti-Muslim.

No new pope yet: Black smoke pours out of Sistine Chapel’s chimney on Day 2
Black smoke continued to billow from the Sistine Chapel chimney for a second day, signaling that cardinals have yet to elect a successor to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21. All 133 cardinals are participating in the conclave, which will proceed with four voting sessions daily until a two-thirds majority is reached. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re expressed hope for a resolution soon.

World Red Cross Day: Nagaland governor calls for compassionate action
During the World Red Cross Day celebration, Nagaland Governor La Ganesan highlighted the importance of humanity, service, and solidarity, praising Red Cross volunteers for their selfless efforts in crises. He urged youth involvement in humanitarian work and emphasized core values of hope, empathy, and kindness. Ganesan called for nurturing compassion from a young age to address contemporary challenges.

James Charles shuts down romance rumors with Kayla Malec's ex-boyfriend Evan Johnson: What's really going on?
James Charles denies romantic involvement with Evan Johnson, condemning alleged abuse claims. He refutes sexual allegations, plans legal action against spreading misinformation, and supports ex-girlfriend Kayla Malec's case.

NJ Transit strike from May 16? What you should know
NJ Transit faces potential train engineers' strike on May 16, 2025. Contingency plans include park-and-ride lots, enhanced bus routes, and ferry services. Commuters advised to prepare for disruptions and consider alternative transportation options.