Times of India

Indian markets are on edge ahead of a crucial US Supreme Court ruling on Trump-era tariffs, which could either spark a sharp rally or intensify volatility depending on the scope of the decision.

Iranian women are seen burning images of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei amidst escalating protests fueled by severe economic hardship. The nation's currency has plummeted, inflation has soared, and food prices have surged, leading to widespread discontent and demonstrations not seen since the 2022-23 unrest.

After England’s 4-1 Ashes loss to Australia, Kevin Pietersen called for changes in the coaching setup and backed former coach Andy Flower as a possible replacement for Brendon McCullum. Calling it a “wild thought,” Pietersen said Flower has evolved and understands modern players. Flower previously led England to major successes and has since won titles in the PSL, The Hundred and IPL.

Pakistan's defence minister Khawaja Asif controversially urged the US and Turkey to 'kidnap' Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him the 'worst criminal of humanity' for actions in Gaza. Asif claimed historical atrocities against Palestinians are unmatched, and Pakistanis pray for Netanyahu's apprehension, referencing ICC warrants.

Bangladesh have asked the ICC to move their T20 World Cup matches out of India after the BCCI instructed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Mustafizur Rahman, "due to the recent developments".

The United States has seized a sanctioned oil tanker, the Olina, in international waters as part of an ongoing campaign against "ghost fleet" vessels. This action, aimed at enforcing sanctions on Venezuela's oil, has drawn strong condemnation from Moscow, which accuses the US of violating international law and risking escalation.

WPL 2026 began with a glitzy opening ceremony at DY Patil Stadium, highlighted by Honey Singh’s surprise entry that caught captains Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur off-guard and went viral. On the field, RCB won the toss and chose to bowl against MI. The season-opening clash marked a lively start to the January–February edition of the league.

The United States announced a $45 million aid package for Thailand and Cambodia to bolster a fragile border ceasefire and promote regional stability. The funds will support border communities, demining efforts, and programs to combat drug trafficking and online scams, reinforcing US commitment to a secure Indo-Pacific.

Ministry of external affairs has sharply criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani' letter to jailed activist Umar Khalid. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that personal prejudices are unbecoming of public officials and urged respect for judicial independence.

President Trump's 'Donroe Doctrine' has reshaped global politics, marked by aggressive military actions in Venezuela, Iran, and beyond. While seeking peace, he simultaneously orchestrates interventions, eyeing territories like Greenland and Mexico. This dual approach, blending diplomacy with forceful assertion, places numerous nations under a shadow of potential US military engagement.

Vanessa Bryant recently hosted a 'Mamba & Mambacita Forever' book signing, drawing large crowds despite rain. The event celebrated Kobe and Gianna Bryant's enduring legacy through art and community. Fans shared personal stories, highlighting how Vanessa's foundation continues to inspire and provide sports opportunities for underserved youth, honoring her family's memory.

The ministry of external affairs rejected recent claims by Donald Trump, declaring that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the US President "share a friendly relationship based on mutual respect." The MEA's comments came in response to recent remarks made by Trump earlier this week at the House GOP Member Retreat.

Ukraine reported Russia's rare use of the Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile during a large overnight attack, with fragments recovered near Lviv. This nuclear-capable weapon, claimed by Moscow to be uninterceptable, targeted infrastructure close to the EU border as part of a wider assault.

India's External Affairs Ministry is closely watching a shooting incident in Minneapolis involving a US immigration agent, given the large Indian population there. The US Department of Homeland Security stated an ICE officer fired defensively after a vehicle attempted to run over officers during an immigration operation. The alleged perpetrator died, and injured officers are recovering.

Israel launched air strikes on Hezbollah sites in Lebanon, targeting weapons facilities and production sites. This follows Lebanon's announcement of disarming the group in the south. While Israel deems the Lebanese army's efforts an encouraging start, it insists full disarmament is necessary, citing ongoing Hezbollah rearmament as a threat.

The Indian rupee crossed Rs 90 to the dollar in early December 2025, marking its weakest level on record. Why did the RBI allow the currency to slide instead of stepping in to defend it, and why are policymakers insisting they are not worried? The answers lie in a hard economic constraint that leaves central banks with fewer choices than they appear to have.