Hamas' tight grip on Gaza complicates plan for lasting peace

The defence ministry has formed a high-level committee to streamline indigenous light combat aircraft (LCA) production and increase private sector involvement to strengthen the Air Force's combat squadrons. Chaired by defence secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, the panel aims to address production constraints and boost private sector participation in manufacturing fighter jets, focusing on improving delivery timelines and exploring new production lines managed by private entities. Full Article

In January 2024, a fierce battle erupted between security forces and the People Liberation Guerilla Army in Bijapur, led by Naxal commander Mandvi Hidma, during an attempt to establish a forward operating base. The attack, involving 450 rocket launchers, was averted with minimal casualties, prompting a strategic review and the establishment of 290 FOBs to combat Naxalism. As the government aims to end the insurgency by 2026, a S.W.O.T analysis was conducted in the Maoist...

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel was prepared to resume fighting against Hamas following accusations that it endangered a Gaza truce by suspending a prisoner release. The truce, which has halted over 15 months of conflict in Gaza, is set to expire in early March, with details for a subsequent phase still unresolved. Netanyahu emphasized Israel's readiness to escalate military operations against Palestinian militants in the West Bank if necessary. Full Article

On February 24, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed willingness to step down if it meant Ukraine could join the NATO military alliance on the third anniversary of Russia's invasion. He stated during a press conference at the "Ukraine. The Year 2025" forum that he would leave his post immediately if it led to peace for Ukraine. Zelensky's offer to resign in exchange for NATO membership was made to prioritize Ukraine's security and stability. Full...

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed disappointment over the heavy loss of his centre-left Social Democrats in the national elections, calling the result "poor" and taking responsibility for it. Scholz congratulated conservative opposition leader Friedrich Merz, whose party emerged victorious. The defeat was described as "bitter" by Scholz during his address to SPD party members in Berlin. Full Article

Israeli tanks have entered the occupied West Bank for the first time since 2002, as part of a crackdown on militancy amid a rise in attacks. The offensive, led by Defense Minister Israel Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, targets refugee camps like Tulkarem, causing destruction in urban areas and increasing tensions in the region. Palestinians view these actions as attempts to solidify Israeli control over the territory, where 3 million people live under military...