India has overtaken Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, reaching a GDP of $4 trillion, as confirmed by NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam using IMF data. Speaking at the 10th Governing Council Meeting, he highlighted that India is now only behind the US, China, and Germany, and may surpass Germany within the next 2-3 years. The IMF’s World Economic Outlook projects India’s GDP at $4.187 trillion in FY 2026. With strong growth of 6.2% and 6.3% expected in 2025 and 2026 respectively, India remains the fastest-growing major economy, benefiting from its demographic dividend and strategic planning.
ZELENSKY SLAMS US OVER SILENCE
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the United States and global leaders for remaining silent after Russia launched its largest air assault since the war began, killing 12 people. Nearly 300 drones and 70 missiles, including ballistic types, struck over 30 cities, including Kyiv, Odesa, and Kharkiv. Zelensky called the strikes “terrorist” and urged immediate sanctions against Russia. He stressed that continued silence only emboldens President Putin. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas echoed Zelensky’s concerns, calling for intensified international pressure. The EU recently sanctioned nearly 200 vessels from Russia’s shadow oil fleet. Zelensky warned the brutality won’t stop without unified global resolve.
HAMAS FACES DEEPENING FINANCIAL CRISIS
Hamas is facing its worst financial crisis since its founding, struggling to pay salaries amid ongoing conflict with Israel, reports Al-Sharq Al-Awsat. Sources say the militant group has depleted reserves, managing only partial payments—about 900 shekels ($240) for four months. The crisis affects operatives, al-Qassam brigade members, and families of deceased fighters. Leadership decimation by the IDF has created a vacuum within Hamas’ governance. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes continue in Gaza, killing civilians, including nine children in Khan Yunis. The humanitarian situation is deteriorating, sparking global concern as Israel intensifies military operations, while international calls for aid and restraint grow stronger.
KHAWAJA ASIF BLAMES UNITED STATES
In a viral video, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif accused the United States of perpetuating global conflicts to benefit its military-industrial complex. He alleged that the U.S. has orchestrated or participated in 260 wars over the past century, profiting economically while destabilizing nations like Palestine, Syria, Egypt, and Libya. Asif claimed America’s war-driven economy necessitates continuous involvement in international strife. His comments come shortly after controversial remarks blaming India for a school bus bombing in Balochistan, which India has strongly denied. The video has intensified scrutiny of Asif’s statements, especially amid heightened Indo-Pak tensions following Operation Sindoor.
IDF DEPLOYS FULL FORCE IN GAZA
Israel has deployed all of its standing army infantry and armoured brigades to Gaza, according to local media, as its offensive intensifies. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) claims it struck over 100 Hamas-linked targets in 24 hours. Gaza’s Health Ministry reported 79 new deaths, including nine of a paediatrician’s ten children. The ongoing conflict has killed over 53,900 Palestinians since October 2023. As humanitarian concerns rise, only a limited number of aid trucks have entered Gaza despite Israel’s easing of the blockade. Meanwhile, Hamas insists on specific conditions for releasing Israeli hostages, which Prime Minister Netanyahu firmly rejects.
