Shakti Shankar Jaju

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.

A Dutch ornithologist, Leo Schilperoord, has been identified as patient zero in a deadly hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship. Authorities suspect he and his wife contracted the virus from rat droppings during a birdwatching trip in Argentina. The outbreak led to multiple deaths and a global health alert.

As mainstream parties grow wary of courting Muslim voters, debates within the community are becoming sharper. Can a new political platform give Muslims a stronger voice without falling into identity politics?

The CBI has taken over the murder investigation of Chandranath Rath, an aide to Suvendu Adhikari, following a recommendation from the Bengal Police. Rath was shot dead by motorcycle-borne assailants in North 24 Parganas. Three suspects, including an alleged sharpshooter, have been arrested by the CID in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar believes Virat Kohli is “very sensitive to criticism” despite often saying he ignores outside noise. Manjrekar revealed Kohli sometimes became “cold” towards him after negative remarks. He added criticism may motivate Kohli to perform better. Manjrekar also praised Kohli’s aggressive leadership in Test cricket, calling him one of India’s greatest captains during his successful tenure.

Bangladesh's foreign affairs adviser stated the nation will not be intimidated by border fencing, questioning the new West Bengal government's approach to governance. Dhaka warned of action against "push-back" incidents and asserted it would not remain silent if killings along the border continue, while Border Guard Bangladesh remains on high alert.

He’s basically preparing the country for tough decisions GOI has to take. Aside from fuel price hikes, there may be some mild curbs. But extravagant poll promises by all winning parties, including BJP, make economic management that much tougher

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.

India has reportedly rejected Russian LNG cargoes under US sanctions, despite energy security worries. A sanctioned Russian LNG shipment is now stranded near Singapore as India navigates compliance risks. While India continues to import Russian crude, LNG is harder to conceal from global tracking systems. Discussions are ongoing for non-sanctioned Russian supplies.

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.