Canadian PM Mark Carney invited Indian PM Narendra Modi to the upcoming G7 Summit in Alberta, which Modi accepted, despite ongoing diplomatic tensions. Relations soured after the 2023 killing of Sikh Canadian activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, allegedly linked to Indian agents. The World Sikh Organization of Canada criticized the move, calling it a betrayal. Carney defended the invitation, emphasizing India’s economic and geopolitical significance and noting progress in law enforcement dialogue. Modi acknowledged the call positively, citing democratic ties. The summit will occur June 15–17, coinciding with Nijjar’s assassination anniversary, adding emotional and political complexity to the gesture.
ISRAEL ARMS GAZA ANTI-HAMAS MILITIAS
Israel has begun arming rival militias in Gaza to weaken Hamas, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed. The controversial move, revealed by opposition leader Avigdor Liberman, involves distributing weapons to extremist groups like one led by Yasser Abu Shabab. Critics, including Liberman and Yair Lapid, condemned the plan as reckless and a threat to Israeli security. Netanyahu bypassed his security cabinet to authorize the operation, sparking outrage. Hamas accused Israel of attempting to create chaos. Opposition leaders liken this to Netanyahu’s earlier funding of Hamas, warning it may backfire. The lack of a post-war governance plan for Gaza deepens concern.
US VETOES GAZA CEASEFIRE RESOLUTION
The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution demanding an “immediate, unconditional and permanent” ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The vote saw 14 countries in favour, with the US as the sole opponent. US Ambassador Dorothy Shea justified the veto, citing the resolution’s failure to address Hamas’ disarmament and exit from Gaza. The UK, despite voting in favour, criticized both Israel’s military expansion and humanitarian aid restrictions. Hamas and Palestinian officials condemned the veto as arrogant and destabilizing. Israel thanked the US for its support, while the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen amid ongoing hostilities.
THAROOR REJECTS TRUMP MEDIATION CLAIMS
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, leading an all-party Indian delegation in the US, firmly rejected former President Donald Trump’s mediation claims regarding India-Pakistan relations. In a meeting with US Vice President JD Vance, Tharoor stressed that India does not consider mediation viable, as it implies parity between India and Pakistan. He stated there is “no equivalence” between a democratic victim of terrorism and a state that harbors terrorists. Tharoor reiterated that India sees Pakistan as an incubator of terrorism and does not support third-party involvement. Vance reportedly understood and acknowledged India’s stance, and other levels of the US administration were also briefed.
BNP REJECTS BANGLADESH POLL TIMELINE
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has rejected interim leader Muhammad Yunus’ announcement of parliamentary elections in April 2026, insisting they be held by December 2025. BNP cited concerns, including adverse weather, Ramadan, and academic examinations that could affect the April schedule. It also criticized Yunus for not providing a valid reason for delaying the polls. Accusing the interim government of political bias, the BNP questioned its commitment to free and fair elections. The party warned that public disappointment over the delay is growing, especially after the political sacrifices made in 2024. Yunus maintains reforms are essential for credible elections.
