Prime Minister Narendra Modi Arrives in Israel for Strategic State Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched down in Tel Aviv on Tuesday for a significant two-day state visit to Israel, marking a crucial diplomatic engagement between the two nations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accompanied by his wife Sara Netanyahu, personally welcomed PM Modi at Ben Gurion Airport in a display of warm bilateral relations.
The two leaders shared an affectionate hug upon arrival, underscoring their strong personal rapport that has developed over years of diplomatic engagement. This visit, scheduled from February 25 to 26, comes at the invitation of Prime Minister Netanyahu and aims to further strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and Israel across multiple sectors including defense, technology, and agriculture.
IndiGo Flight Chaos Leaves 200 Passengers Stranded for Hours
In a separate incident that sparked passenger outrage, more than 200 travelers aboard IndiGo flight 6E1025 from Chennai to Singapore endured nearly five hours of confinement inside the aircraft due to technical and crew-related issues. The flight, originally scheduled to depart at 7:30 AM, finally took off around noon after passengers had boarded as early as 6:30 AM.
Viral videos from the scene captured frustrated passengers shouting at airline staff, complaining about poor communication, inconsistent air conditioning, and being prevented from deboarding despite growing discomfort. Some passengers alleged that CISF personnel were called to manage the situation, though official confirmation remains pending. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about passenger rights and airline accountability in India's aviation sector.
Piyush Goyal Launches Fierce Counterattack Against Rahul Gandhi
Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal delivered a sharp rebuttal to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's recent criticism of the India-US trade agreement, dismissing Gandhi's characterization of Prime Minister Modi as "compromised" in the negotiations. Goyal, who played a central role in the trade discussions, accused Gandhi and the Congress party of acting as "puppets of foreign powers, anti-India forces, and anti-India organizations."
The heated exchange occurred in Parliament where Gandhi had raised questions about transparency in the interim trade deal negotiations. Goyal's strong response reflects the escalating political tensions surrounding economic diplomacy and trade agreements ahead of upcoming elections.
Iran Issues Strong Warning Ahead of Geneva Nuclear Talks
Iran has firmly rejected allegations by US President Donald Trump that Tehran is rebuilding its missile and nuclear capabilities, issuing a stern warning about potential consequences of any military action. The rebuke comes just one day before fresh nuclear talks are scheduled to begin in Geneva between Iranian and American officials.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei characterized Trump's claims as "big lies" and deliberate disinformation, while Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf cautioned that the United States must choose between diplomatic engagement and confrontation. Iranian officials emphasized that any attack during negotiations would trigger a strong and immediate response.
Rinku Singh Returns to India Squad for Crucial T20 World Cup Match
Left-handed batter Rinku Singh has rejoined the Indian cricket team ahead of their must-win Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe in the Men's T20 World Cup. Singh had briefly returned home due to a family medical emergency involving his father's health condition.
Indian batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed Singh's return during the pre-match press conference in Chennai, noting that the player had missed Tuesday's training session at the MA Chidambaram Stadium while attending to his family situation. Singh's availability provides a significant boost to India's batting lineup as they prepare for this critical encounter in the tournament.
These developments across diplomacy, aviation, politics, international relations, and sports highlight the diverse challenges and engagements shaping India's current landscape on both domestic and international fronts.
