Israel has reportedly proposed supplying India with the Golden Horizon Air-Launched Ballistic Missile (ALBM), a sophisticated deep-strike weapon capable of targeting fortified underground strategic facilities including command bunkers and nuclear-related infrastructure. Derived from Israel's Silver Sparrow target missile, the Golden Horizon is estimated to have a range between 1,000 and 2,000 kilometres significantly exceeding BrahMos capabilities and follows a ballistic trajectory reaching near-hypersonic terminal velocities above Mach 5, making interception extremely challenging. If acquired, the missile would likely be integrated with IAF's Sukhoi Su-30MKI fleet. The offer represents a significant upgrade beyond Israel's previously supplied LORA and Rampage systems, potentially transforming India's aerial deep-strike capabilities against hardened enemy infrastructure considerably. (PC: News18)

Urvashi, an Indian woman based in Japan, recently visited the Ichikawa City Zoological and Botanical Gardens to meet Punch, the internet's beloved baby Japanese macaque, sharing heartwarming glimpses on Instagram captioned "Finally met the tiniest fighter in Japan." Born in July 2025, Punch was abandoned by his mother shortly after birth and hand-raised by dedicated zoo staff. He developed a deep attachment to a stuffed orangutan plush, affectionately dubbed "Ora-mama" by fans online. Despite facing intimidation from older monkeys, Punch has shown remarkable resilience. The zoo has witnessed a significant spike in visitors since Punch's story went viral. Recent updates confirm Punch has made new friends and was groomed by two fellow monkeys, steadily integrating into the group.

President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to global trading partners hours after the US Supreme Court struck down his sweeping tariff powers, threatening significantly higher duties against any nation attempting to exploit the ruling. Writing on Truth Social, Trump cautioned that countries trying to "play games" would face tariffs far worse than previously agreed rates. Following the court's decision, Trump raised import duties to 15%, the maximum permitted under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 and signed an executive order imposing a 10% global import tax effective Tuesday, coinciding with his State of the Union address. Trump maintained he requires no Congressional approval, arguing such authority was granted long ago through existing legislation.

Days after Tarique Rahman's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) swept to a two-thirds majority in February 12 elections and Rahman took oath as Prime Minister on February 17, Bangladesh's military underwent a sweeping top-level reshuffle. Lieutenant General M Mainur Rahman was appointed the new Chief of General Staff, replacing Lieutenant General Mizanur Rahman Shamim who retired. Major General Kaiser Rashid Chowdhury was named Director General of the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI). Significantly, Brigadier General Mohammad Hafizur Rahman, serving as defence adviser at Bangladesh's High Commission in India, was recalled and promoted, appointed GOC of the 55th Infantry Division. The sweeping changes signal the new BNP government's intent to firmly consolidate strategic military command structures under its administration. (PC: NDTV)

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will embark on his first official India visit later this month as part of a broader Indo-Pacific tour spanning India, Australia, and Japan from February 26 to March 7, 2026. Carney will begin in Mumbai before travelling to New Delhi for talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on trade, clean energy, technology, artificial intelligence, talent mobility, culture, and defence cooperation. The visit carries significant diplomatic weight as both nations work to reset bilateral ties following a period of notable strain. Carney will also engage Indian business leaders on investment opportunities. The tour reflects Canada's broader push to build a stronger, more independent economy amid escalating global trade uncertainties driven largely by Trump-era tariff disruptions. (PC: X)

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has formally written to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirming his government's support for removing Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the British royal line of succession. Andrew, currently eighth in line to the throne, was arrested by Thames Valley Police on February 19 at his Sandringham residence on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Allegations tied to claims he shared confidential information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during official overseas visits. Released after 11 hours of questioning, he remains under investigation without charges filed. Removing Andrew from succession would require primary legislation approved by both Houses of Parliament, royal assent from King Charles III, and consent from 14 Commonwealth realms including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. (PC: India Today)

India’s team management said Axar Patel’s absence against South Africa was a tactical call based on balance. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said the think tank had “spent so much time deliberating about the 11.” He said the choice was between Axar and Washington Sundar. “The decision was purely around match-ups and power-play plans,” he added. India wanted an extra batter in Rinku Singh and a bowler who could operate early. “It’s not to take anything away from Axar and his leadership,” he said. South Africa scored 187/7 and bowled India out for 111, winning by 76 runs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the team of Manipuri film Boong after it won Best Children’s and Family Film at the British Academy Film Awards.   In a post on X, he said, “Congratulations to all those associated with this film. This is indeed a moment of immense joy, especially for Manipur. It also highlights the immense creative talent in our nation.”   The film is directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and backed by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani. It tells the story of a young boy searching for his father. The award ceremony was held in London. 

Star Sports removed its ‘Cupcake’ promo after India’s heavy loss to South Africa in the T20 World Cup Super 8 match in Ahmedabad.   The ad had mocked South Africa’s past record and suggested India would win comfortably. However, India were beaten by 76 runs.   The promo was later deleted from digital platforms. The move has sparked discussion over the tone of cricket promotions before major matches.   Viewers questioned whether such campaigns assume victory too early and show little respect for the opposition.

Violence broke out in several parts of Mexico after drug cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, was killed during an army operation in Jalisco state.   The Mexican defence ministry said four cartel members were killed and three soldiers were injured in Tapalpa. After his death, suspected members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel set up roadblocks and burned vehicles in at least a dozen states.   About 250 roadblocks were reported across the country. President Claudia Sheinbaum said there was “absolute co-ordination” between authorities and urged people to stay calm. The US had offered a $15m reward for information on El Mencho. (PC: BBC)