Islamist militants in northwest Pakistan kill 16 security personnel, police officer says

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino have agreed to strengthen military and security cooperation, with a focus on safeguarding the Panama Canal. Mulino hinted at the possibility of Panama withdrawing from China's Belt and Road initiative sooner than expected, signaling a shift in alliances and priorities for the country. This collaboration aims to bolster Panama's defense capabilities and protect vital infrastructure while potentially altering its international relationships. Full Article

Russia has announced the capture of two additional villages, Novomlynsk and Baranivka, in eastern Ukraine amid their ongoing offensive. The villages are located in the northeastern Kharkiv region and near Ocheretyne, respectively. As the conflict nears its third anniversary, Kyiv struggles to counter Russia's steady advancements in the region. Full Article

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has instructed security agencies to intensify counterterror operations in J&K to achieve 'zero-infiltration' and eliminate terrorism with a 'ruthless approach'. Concerns have been raised regarding foreign militants and local support, as well as the role of the narco network in terror funding. Shah emphasized the need for swift action to curb financial aid from the drug trade to combat terrorism effectively. Full Article

Iran recently deployed Russian-made long-range air defense systems in a military exercise in response to Israeli airstrikes that reportedly weakened Tehran's defenses. This move followed discussions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump, who reaffirmed their commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The deployment of air defense systems came as a strategic response to perceived threats and ongoing tensions in the region. Full Article

A large group of protesters in Dhaka vandalized and set fire to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's residence during a live address by his daughter and deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who called for resistance against the current regime. The house, an iconic symbol, was earlier turned into a memorial museum. Hasina, who has been living in India since fleeing Bangladesh amid protests, faces arrest warrants for alleged crimes against humanity and genocide. Full Article

Bollywood's top Khans, Shah Rukh, Salman, and Aamir, attended Aamir Khan's son Junaid Khan's Loveyapa movie screening together in Mumbai. Shah Rukh was warmly welcomed by Aamir, with the two sharing a sweet moment captured by photographers. Salman also attended with heavy security and later posed with Aamir for the paparazzi. The film, starring Junaid and Khushi Kapoor, is a young love story releasing this Friday, produced by Phantom Studios and AGS Entertainment. Full Article