Anil Karakkulam

The United Arab Emirates secretly conducted attacks on an Iranian oil refinery last month, marking a new direct participant in the conflict. This action followed Iran's extensive targeting of the UAE, prompting a strategic shift in Abu Dhabi's approach to Tehran. The UAE possesses a highly advanced air force, fueling speculation about its involvement.

The Trinamool Congress has criticized the appointment of former Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal as West Bengal's Chief Secretary by the new BJP government. The party labeled the move "shameless," questioning the neutrality of the election process after Agarwal oversaw the recent Assembly elections.

India holds one of the world’s largest privately owned stocks of gold. Bullion exchanges can be a strong pillar to invite that gold sitting idle in cupboards.

The hantavirus-stricken MV Hondius has departed Tenerife for the Netherlands after passengers and crew were evacuated. The operation repatriated 94 individuals, with three deaths reported since the outbreak began nine days ago. Health officials emphasize the low risk to the public, as the virus rarely spreads person-to-person.

With 15 league games left, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans are favourites for IPL playoffs with nearly 88% qualification chances. Punjab Kings remain well placed despite slipping to 64.4%. Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals hover around 54%, while Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals face slim hopes. Lucknow Super Giants and Mumbai Indians are eliminated.

Five days of turbulence before your swearing-in may well prove to be a teaser; brace for five years of backstabbing and frontal attacks. You did the right thing by waiting...

Meta is cutting 8,000 jobs on May 20 as CEO Mark Zuckerberg rebuilds the company around small, AI-powered teams. With capex hitting a record $125–145 billion this year, CFO Susan Li admitted there's no clean answer for what Meta's ideal headcount even looks like anymore. The company wants builders who can ship alone what teams once built together—and is letting everyone else go.

Pakistan reportedly sheltered Iranian military aircraft at its airbases, raising questions about its neutrality as a mediator in the US-Iran conflict. US officials cited in a CBS News report claim Iran moved planes, including a reconnaissance jet, to Pakistan's Nur Khan Air Base. A Pakistani official denied these allegations, calling them implausible.

US President Trump expressed optimism for his upcoming visit to China and meeting with President Xi Jinping, anticipating positive outcomes for both nations. Accompanied by prominent business leaders, Trump aims to discuss trade, Iran, tariffs, and AI, seeking to strengthen US economic and national security interests.