China has suspended exports of key rare earth metals and magnets amid its escalating trade war with the US. The move affects elements vital to industries like defense, electronics, and EVs. China controls 90% of global rare earths, and the halted shipments impact global firms including Tesla, Apple, and Lockheed Martin. Beijing's new licensing system delays exports while signaling tighter restrictions. The US relies heavily on Chinese supply, with only one domestic rare earth mine. Analysts warn the move could destabilize global tech and defense sectors. Washington has limited stockpiles, prompting urgent search for alternative sources. (PC: NDTV)

Bangladesh has reinstated the "except Israel" clause on its passports, reversing a 2021 decision to remove it. The Home Ministry issued a directive on April 7, 2025, mandating the return of the phrase "THIS PASSPORT IS VALID FOR ALL COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD EXCEPT ISRAEL" . This move follows massive pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Dhaka, where approximately 100,000 people protested against Israeli actions in Gaza . The government clarified that the earlier removal aimed to align with international passport standards and did not signify a shift in foreign policy . Bangladesh continues to support the Palestinian cause and upholds its longstanding travel ban to Israel. (PC: OpIndia, Dawn, Times of India & Al Jazeera)

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that the U.S. is prepared to "go deep and to go big" militarily if diplomatic efforts with Iran over its nuclear program fail. This statement followed initial indirect talks in Oman, which Hegseth described as "productive." President Donald Trump emphasized that while military action is not preferred, it remains a possibility, potentially involving Israel as a leading partner. Trump had previously withdrawn the U.S. from the 2015 nuclear agreement during his first term. Analysts suggest Iran may be weeks away from developing a nuclear weapon. Trump has warned Iran that failure to reach a deal could lead to bombing. (PC: The New York Times)

On April 13, 2025, Israeli airstrikes hit Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City, one of the last operational medical centers in the region. The bombing destroyed the emergency and reception departments, rendering the facility inoperative. A warning call prior to the strike allowed staff to evacuate patients, many of whom were critically ill, into the streets without medical support. Israel claimed the hospital was being used by Hamas, though provided no proof. The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem condemned the strike, calling it a violation of international law. The attack comes amid intense conflict and failed ceasefire talks in Cairo. (PC: Reuters)

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has issued a strict 30-day deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to self-deport or face severe penalties, including daily fines up to $998, imprisonment, and permanent immigration bans. The directive encourages voluntary departure, allowing individuals to choose their own flight and retain U.S.-earned income. While legal visa holders aren’t immediately affected, those whose visas expire must act quickly. This enforcement aligns with former President Trump’s immigration stance and has triggered debate over its humanitarian and legal implications, especially among immigrant communities and advocacy groups. (PC: Reuters)

A Dhaka court on Sunday issued arrest warrants against ousted Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her sister Sheikh Rehana, British MP Tulip Rizwana Siddiq, and 50 others over illegal land acquisition charges. The Anti-Corruption Commission filed three chargesheets accusing them of misusing political power to secure Purbachal plots. Arrest warrants were issued as all 53 accused were absent. Earlier, a separate warrant targeted Hasina’s daughter Saima Wazed Putul. Hasina, accused of corruption, mass murders, and crimes against humanity, has lived in India since her government was overthrown by a student-led uprising on August 5, 2024. Court review is set for April 27. (PC: AFP)

China on Sunday urged the US to “completely cancel” its 145% reciprocal tariffs after Washington announced limited exemptions for smartphones, laptops, and chipmaking tools. Beijing’s demand followed the enforcement of its own 125% retaliatory tariffs on US goods, escalating trade tensions. China’s commerce ministry called the US move a “small step” and urged a return to “mutual respect.” Tech giants like Apple, Nvidia, and Dell are expected to benefit from US exemptions. Most Chinese goods, however, remain under steep levies after being excluded from a 90-day reprieve. The trade standoff shows no signs of easing as both nations hold firm.

Violence over the Waqf Act in West Bengal’s Murshidabad has left 3 dead and 150 arrested, prompting paramilitary deployment after Calcutta High Court's intervention. Protesters reportedly attacked BSF troops with petrol bombs. Visuals showed Hindus fleeing by boat to Malda. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari accused Mamata Banerjee’s government of appeasement, claiming 400 Hindus fled the district. Internet remains suspended, and Section 163 is in force. A father-son duo and a 17-year-old Muslim boy were among the dead. BJP seeks AFSPA and plans to mark 'Shaheed Diwas'. Police are investigating, with more arrests likely. Situation remains tense but under control. (PC: India Today)

An Israeli air strike hit Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City, destroying the intensive care and surgery units. It was the last fully working hospital in the area. Videos showed people, including patients in beds, running to escape. Israel said Hamas was using the hospital as a command center. No deaths were reported, but one injured child died during the evacuation. Gaza's health ministry said the building was completely destroyed. Israel said it warned staff before the strike. The hospital had sheltered many displaced families. This attack follows months of war after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023. (PC: EPA)

A Russian missile strike on Sumy, a city in northeast Ukraine, killed 31 people, including two children, and injured 84 others on Palm Sunday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for a “strong response” from Europe and the US. “Only bastards can do this,” he said. The strike hit a busy street, damaging homes, cars, and a trolleybus. The attack came just two days after a US envoy met Russian President Putin to discuss peace. Russia has continued attacks despite ceasefire talks. Local rescue teams found bodies in streets, cars, and homes. The war has now lasted over three years. (PC: AFP)