Following the U.S. government’s sharp increase in H-1B visa application fees to USD 100,000 for new applicants, Iowa Republican Senator Chuck Grassley urged the Department of Homeland Security to stop issuing work authorizations to student visa holders. He argued that these permits allow foreign students to “compete against Americans,” violate law, and pose risks of technology espionage. The request targets programs such as OPT (Optional Practical Training), threatening a key pathway for international graduates, especially from India, to gain U.S. work experience. 

In recent remarks, a top aide to Donald Trump reversed criticism toward Europe, asserting it’s European nations—not India—that are truly financing Russia’s war efforts. The accusation came in response to earlier claims that India was profiteering from Russia’s conflict through oil trade. Analysts say Trump’s team is attempting to deflect focus from India amid mounting scrutiny, while geopolitical tensions over energy deals and sanctions continue to escalate between the U.S., Europe, and key global players.  

Elon Musk has been named in newly released Jeffrey Epstein files, which include a tentative itinerary for a December 6, 2014, visit to Epstein’s island. The documents also mention planned meetings with Steve Bannon and Bill Gates in 2014 and 2019, respectively. Musk swiftly denied the allegations, stating, “This is false,” on social media. The release has intensified calls from Democratic lawmakers for the U.S. Justice Department to publicly release all Epstein-related files, challenging the Trump administration's stance that no client list exists. (PC: NDTV)  

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly was met with widespread walkouts and protests. Delegates from numerous countries, including Arab, Muslim, and several European nations, exited the hall in protest as Netanyahu began his speech. Outside the UN, thousands of demonstrators gathered in New York City, condemning Israel's actions in Gaza and calling for sanctions. Netanyahu's speech, which included a message directed at hostages in Gaza, emphasized Israel's commitment to dismantling Hamas. The international community remains deeply divided over the ongoing conflict and the recognition of a Palestinian state.    

Palestine has officially applied for full membership in BRICS, Palestinian envoy Abdel-Hafiz Nofal confirmed, marking a strategic move to boost global recognition. Until the process is complete, Palestine may join as a guest participant at BRICS meetings. China, responding to the application, said it “welcomes more like-minded partners” to the grouping, which seeks to reform global governance and enhance multipolarity. BRICS, once a five-nation bloc, has recently expanded by adding Egypt, UAE, Ethiopia, Iran, and Indonesia. Palestine’s application underscores its push for stronger international alliances amid escalating regional tensions. (PC: The Hindu)

New documents from Jeffrey Epstein’s estate name Elon Musk, Peter Thiel, and Steve Bannon among his contacts after his 2007 plea deal. The House Oversight Committee released 8,544 files, including flight logs, schedules, and phone records. One note shows Musk linked to a planned trip to Epstein’s island in 2014. Another lists a 2017 lunch with Thiel and a 2019 breakfast with Bannon. Records also mention Prince Andrew and Bill Gates. Democrats said the files prove Epstein maintained ties with powerful men. Republicans accused Democrats of releasing selected details for political reasons. More disclosures are expected soon. (PC: India Today)

Former US President Donald Trump advised pregnant women to avoid Tylenol unless “absolutely necessary,” repeating his earlier claim linking it to autism. He also suggested giving the MMR vaccine as three separate shots and delaying chickenpox and Hepatitis B vaccines until later, urging parents to spread vaccines across five medical visits. Trump posted the guidance on Truth Social without citing studies. Health experts have criticized the advice. His administration has also begun exploring leucovorin calcium tablets as a potential treatment for conditions linked to autism, echoing claims promoted by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (PC: HT)

Iran has received new Russian MiG-29 fighter jets, boosting its air power and regional security threat to Israel. The twin-engine MiG-29s are deployed at Shiraz airbase, while Iran awaits advanced Su-35 jets. Lawmaker Abolfazl Zoharevand said Iran will also get Russian S-400 missile systems and Chinese HQ-9 air defenses. The acquisitions follow past losses of Iranian aircraft and air defenses in conflicts. Experts say these weapons strengthen Iran’s air and missile capability, signaling a shift in Middle East power dynamics. The move highlights Iran’s growing ties with Russia and China. (PC: X)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced strong protests at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday. As he began his speech, dozens of delegates walked out, showing their disagreement with his remarks on Palestinian recognition, while some in the hall applauded him. Netanyahu called recognition of a Palestinian state “sheer madness” and “disgraceful,” insisting Israel would never accept it. He addressed hostages held by Hamas, saying they were not forgotten, and mentioned that his speech was broadcast into Gaza. The walkouts highlight growing international frustration over Israel’s actions in the West Bank and Gaza.

US President Donald Trump made Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wait nearly an hour before their first White House meeting. The talks, held behind closed doors, were seen as a step toward stronger US-Pakistan ties. Sharif was also among eight leaders from Muslim-majority countries who met Trump on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly to discuss the Israel-Hamas war. Washington and Islamabad recently signed a trade deal aimed at reducing tariffs and boosting oil investment. Sharif has openly praised Trump’s role in easing tensions with India. Trump, meanwhile, has imposed new tariffs on India over Russian oil imports. (PC: mint)