The Cochin University B.Tech Alumni Association (CUBAA) in Dubai is facing criticism after former Pakistani cricketers Shahid Afridi and Umar Gul were seen being warmly received at their cultural event. CUBAA clarified that the cricketers were not invited guests but happened to attend a different event at the same venue. The incident took place during the ‘Ormachuvadukal Season 2’ dance competition on May 25, 2025, at the Pakistan Association Dubai. The group issued a statement expressing regret and emphasized that their appearance was unplanned and unsolicited. (PC: OpIndia)    

The Chinese Embassy in Nepal has issued a renewed advisory warning its citizens against traveling to the India-Nepal border, following India’s recent crackdown on illegal crossings. At least six Chinese nationals were detained in May for attempting to enter India without valid documents. The embassy emphasized that while Indian and Nepali citizens can cross the border freely with ID, foreign nationals must hold a valid Indian visa. The advisory warns that illegal entry can lead to jail terms ranging from 2 to 8 years, hefty fines, and no possibility of bail. India has heightened security following terror threats and Operation Sindoor. (PC : India Today )

In a diplomatic win for India, Colombia has officially withdrawn its earlier statement expressing condolences for Pakistan following India's Operation Sindoor. The move came after a Shashi Tharoor-led delegation conveyed India's disappointment during a visit as part of a broader outreach campaign against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Tharoor praised Colombia's updated stance, emphasizing that there can be no equivalence between terrorists and those defending their nation. Colombia’s Vice Foreign Minister confirmed the retraction, stating a better understanding of the Kashmir situation. Tharoor welcomed the shift, saying it strengthens dialogue and reflects support for India's sovereignty and peace in the region.

On May 31, 2025, former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed credit for brokering the India-Pakistan ceasefire, suggesting that American trade pressure was instrumental in averting a larger conflict. He asserted the U.S. threatened to cut trade ties with both nations, allegedly prompting peace. However, India categorically denied any third-party role, clarifying that the ceasefire was achieved through direct military talks between Indian and Pakistani DGMOs. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated that no trade-related discussions occurred. PM Modi emphasized that Pakistan requested a ceasefire during India's Operation Sindoor, which, he stated, is still ongoing. (PC: The Economic Times)

A Kerala community in Dubai is under fire after warmly welcoming former Pakistani cricketer Shahid Afridi at a recent event. The backlash stems from Afridi's controversial comments following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in India, which claimed 26 lives. In widely circulated videos, Afridi is seen being greeted with cheers and chants of "Boom Boom" by the community. He responded by expressing his fondness for Kerala and its cuisine. Critics argue that honoring Afridi, who blamed Indian forces for the attack and mocked Indian media, is disrespectful to the victims and undermines national sentiment. (PC: OpIndia)    

In a significant diplomatic achievement, Congress MP and former UN diplomat Shashi Tharoor led an all-party Indian delegation to Bogotá, Colombia, successfully influencing a shift in Colombia's stance from pro-Pakistan to pro-India. The delegation's mission was to brief Colombian officials on India's counterterrorism efforts, notably Operation Sindoor, and to reaffirm India's position on the suspended Indus Waters Treaty. Tharoor emphasized India's generosity under the treaty and highlighted Pakistan's misuse of the agreement. This outreach resulted in Colombia expressing support for India's counterterrorism initiatives and acknowledging India's concerns regarding Pakistan's actions. The visit underscores India's growing diplomatic influence and its ability to garner international support on critical issues. (PC: News 18)

On May 30, 2025, Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded the Border Security Force (BSF) for its decisive retaliation against Pakistani shelling, resulting in the destruction of over 118 Pakistani military posts along the Jammu frontier. This action, part of Operation Sindoor, was in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. Shah highlighted that the BSF's operations dismantled Pakistan's surveillance and communication systems, rendering them ineffective for years. He emphasized that such a significant blow would incapacitate Pakistan's ability to wage information-based warfare for an extended period. The operation underscores India's commitment to robust border defense and counter-terrorism efforts. (PC: Wikipedia)  

Armenia is strengthening its military by acquiring advanced Indian defense systems, including Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers, Akash surface-to-air missiles, and Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS). This strategic move aims to diversify Armenia’s defense partnerships after recent conflicts revealed gaps in support from traditional allies. India’s growing defense exports to Armenia highlight its expanding influence in the South Caucasus region. The enhanced military cooperation reflects both nations’ shared interest in bolstering regional security and countering emerging threats. (PC: The Print)  

On May 30, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at a rally in Karakat, Bihar, reaffirmed India's unwavering stance against terrorism. He declared that Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, was merely "one arrow in our quiver," signaling India's readiness for further action if provoked. Modi emphasized that the fight against terror is ongoing, likening it to a serpent that, if it raises its hood again, will be "dragged out of its hole and trampled." He highlighted the operation's success in targeting terrorist hideouts in Pakistan, asserting that India's forces brought those responsible to their knees. The Prime Minister's remarks underscore a continued commitment to national security and a warning to adversaries about India's preparedness to counter threats. (PC: PTI)  

The 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), brokered by the World Bank, allocated the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) to Pakistan and the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) to India. To facilitate Pakistan's transition and compensate for its loss of access to the eastern rivers, India agreed to a financial contribution. Over a decade, India paid approximately $174 million (about $1.6 billion today) to Pakistan. This was part of a $1 billion fund, with the World Bank and other donors assisting Pakistan in building dams and canals. The treaty’s suspension by India in April 2025 has increased tensions. (PC: India Today)