India has strongly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump for referring to the country as a “hellhole” in a reshared anti-immigration post. The Ministry of External Affairs described the remark as “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste,” stressing that it misrepresents India’s image and undermines strong bilateral ties. India also highlighted the depth of its strategic partnership with the United States across trade, defence, and technology. The controversial comment sparked political reactions domestically and prompted diplomatic concern, with officials emphasizing the importance of respectful discourse in international relations. (PC: AP)

India has strongly criticised remarks amplified by Donald Trump, who reposted content describing the country as a “hell-hole.” The Ministry of External Affairs termed the comments “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste,” stressing they do not reflect the reality of India-US relations built on mutual respect and shared interests. The controversy stems from a podcast by Michael Savage, where he criticised US birthright citizenship and used derogatory language for India, China and immigrants. The episode has triggered diplomatic pushback from India, highlighting sensitivities around rhetoric targeting nations amid broader debates on immigration policy and international relations between major global powers currently.

Indian travellers can now transit through France without an airport transit visa, after a rule change effective April 10, 2026, confirmed by India’s external affairs ministry. The move follows commitments by President Emmanuel Macron to ease travel for Indian nationals. A revised decree published April 9 removed the requirement for those remaining within the international transit zone en route to non-Schengen destinations. However, travellers who need to clear immigration, change airports, or stay overnight will still require a short-stay visa. Officials say the step strengthens India-France ties and simplifies global connectivity for Indian flyers significantly. It is expected to reduce paperwork, costs, and waiting time for passengers using French hubs overall. (PC: HT)

Ministry of External Affairs gave a brief response after Donald Trump reposted a comment calling India and China a “hellhole”. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal avoided a detailed reply. He said, “We have seen some reports. That's where I leave it.” The statement came during a media briefing when he was asked about the remark. The ministry did not offer further clarification or reaction. The response reflects a cautious approach by India on the issue. There has been no official comment beyond the short statement so far. (PC: HT)

US President Donald Trump has sparked controversy after posting a letter on Truth Social describing countries including India and China as “hellholes” while criticising birthright citizenship in the United States. The post also alleged that immigrants, particularly from India and China, dominate hiring in California’s tech sector, limiting opportunities for others, though no evidence was provided. His remarks come amid ongoing debates over immigration policy and citizenship laws in the US. The comments have drawn criticism for their tone and generalisations, potentially straining diplomatic sentiment. The episode highlights how immigration rhetoric remains a politically charged issue ahead of key policy discussions and elections.

A group of Indian tourists faced allegations of stealing hotel property at Asvara Resort Ubud in Bali after staff noticed missing items during checkout. Resort employees halted their departure and searched luggage, recovering items including towels, robes, utensils, a hair dryer and a remote box. A viral video of the incident triggered strong online reactions, with many criticising the behaviour while others cautioned against generalising. Authorities confirmed the tourists had stayed from April 16 to 19, and the matter was resolved without legal action after items were identified. The episode has reignited debate about tourist conduct and reputational impact abroad.

An India-bound vessel was among two ships seized by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions despite a ceasefire extension. Three container ships including Epaminondas, MSC Francesca and Euphoria were targeted, with Epaminondas, headed to India, sustaining heavy bridge damage after gunfire. Iran accused the vessels of violating maritime rules and tampering with navigation systems. The seizures came amid ongoing friction with the United States, which has been enforcing a naval blockade. The incident underscores rising risks to global shipping and uncertainty surrounding stalled US-Iran peace talks. (PC: NDTV)

On the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack, Sergio Gor affirmed that the United States stands with India in combating terrorism, honouring the 26 victims killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists in Pahalgam. Indian leaders including Narendra Modi, Droupadi Murmu, and Rahul Gandhi paid tributes, reiterating a zero-tolerance stance. The attack triggered Operation Sindoor and a brief India-Pakistan conflict. A memorial now stands at the site, symbolising national resolve, unity, and commitment to defeating terrorism.

Iranian forces opened fire on three container ships near the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions. One vessel, Epaminondas, was signalling Gujarat’s Mundra port as its destination. Another ship was headed to Sri Lanka, while a third was bound for Saudi Arabia. Two vessels were taken into custody by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, while one remained stranded. The incident follows US action against Iranian tankers during a naval blockade. Iran has called the blockade “armed piracy.” The attacks come despite a ceasefire announced by Donald Trump remaining in place. (PC: The Indian Express)

4 Indian tourists were accused of taking hotel items from a resort in Bali. The incident happened at Asvara Resort Ubud during checkout on April 19. Hotel staff checked their luggage after noticing missing items from the rooms. Reports said towels, robes, a hair dryer, dining utensils, a doormat, and a TV remote box were found inside the bags. A video of the incident was shared on social media and drew criticism online. Police said no formal complaint was filed. The matter was settled between the hotel and the guests after all items were returned.