Sudan’s army launched its largest operation yet to regain control of the capital, Khartoum, using artillery and airstrikes amid its 17-month war with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The offensive occurred just before army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan addressed the UN. Heavy clashes were reported, with both sides claiming control of key bridges across the Nile.
IMF Approves $7B Bailout for Pakistan
The IMF has approved a $7 billion bailout for Pakistan to stabilize its economy amid high inflation and low foreign reserves. The first $1.1 billion tranche will be released within a month. Pakistan’s economy, hit by inflation of 27%, political instability, and natural disasters, is expected to use the funds to boost reserves and support essential services.
UN Holds Emergency Meeting on Lebanon Amid Israel-Hezbollah Conflict
France requested an emergency UN Security Council meeting on Lebanon, the second in a week, as violence between Israeli forces and Hezbollah escalates. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned of potential regional war and urged both sides to step back. He emphasized Lebanon’s need for control over its weapons and urged support for the Lebanese Armed Forces amid massive civilian displacement.
US Naval Ship Charles Drew Makes Second Visit to India for Repairs
For the second time in two years, the US Naval ship Charles Drew is undergoing repairs at the Larsen and Toubro shipyard in Kattupalli, near Chennai. The vessel arrived on Wednesday and will remain for several weeks. Charles Drew was the first American ship to receive voyage repairs in India, followed by USNS Matthew Perry and USNS Salvor. These ships perform logistics and support roles, not combat operations. The US Navy signed a five-year Master Shipyard Repair Agreement with L&T last year, highlighting the strengthening US-India partnership.
Ben Gvir Threatens to Leave Coalition Over Lebanon Ceasefire
Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir threatened to withdraw his party, Otzma Yehudit, from Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government if a ceasefire with Hezbollah is approved. Following an urgent party meeting, Ben Gvir stated that if the ceasefire becomes permanent, his party will fully resign from the coalition, citing that enabling an enemy to recover projects weakness and endangers citizens’ security. Otzma Yehudit would cease all coalition activities if a temporary ceasefire is signed.
