Pakistan’s military accused militants in Afghanistan of planning the deadly attack on the Jaffar Express in Balochistan. The hijacking lasted 36 hours, leaving at least 21 dead. Security forces killed 33 attackers and rescued over 100 passengers. "It was like a rain of rockets and bullets," a survivor said. The Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility, demanding the release of political prisoners. Military spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry warned, "This incident changes the rules of the game." Pakistan urged Afghanistan to stop militants from using its land. The attack was condemned by the US, China, and the UN.

A US judge has ordered six federal agencies to rehire thousands of workers fired under Donald Trump's government cuts. Judge William Alsup ruled that the layoffs, justified as "poor performance," were a "sham" to bypass legal rules. The lawsuit was filed by employee unions. The ruling affects the Treasury, Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, Defense, Energy, and Interior departments. "It is a sad day when good employees are fired under false claims," Alsup said. Since returning as president, Trump has cut government spending and jobs, but courts have pushed back with several legal rulings against his policies.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump praised NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, saying, “NATO is stepping up through this man.” Trump credited Rutte for strengthening the alliance and supporting efforts to end the war. “He only knows how to do a good job,” Trump added, emphasizing his role in securing Rutte’s appointment. However, Trump also repeated concerns about U.S. spending, stating, “We are on the other side of the ocean.” He highlighted a new minerals deal with Ukraine, saying it will “get us something back, a lot back.” Rutte joked he would keep Trump’s praise as a family keepsake.

The UK's terror watchdog has warned about the rise of lone attackers planning mass killings after being influenced by the internet. Jonathan Hall KC, the independent reviewer of terrorism laws, suggested a new offence for individuals plotting such crimes. He cited cases like Axel Rudakubana, who killed three children in Southport, and Nicholas Prosper, who planned a school shooting. Hall cautioned against broadening the definition of terrorism, fearing misuse. The government is reviewing current laws to tackle this emerging threat. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stressed the need to address the dangers posed by isolated young men radicalised online.

Ukrainian soldiers dismiss ceasefire talks as unrealistic while facing relentless Russian attacks. At a military hospital in eastern Ukraine, wounded troops arrive continuously, many hit by shrapnel from drones. "Murderers don’t agree so easily," says Maksym, a soldier. Medics, including foreign volunteers, remain skeptical, citing past failed truces. The 68th Jaeger Brigade trains for battle, doubting both Russian intentions and American commitments. "No one wants to hope," says Swedish medic Daniel. With Ukraine losing ground in Kursk and US military aid finally resuming, troops see little sign that peace is near. "You can’t trust Russia. Never," says another soldier.

Pakistani security forces stopped a major suicide bombing attempt near Jandola Fort in Tank District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A suicide bomber detonated explosives at a checkpoint’s southern gate, injuring 2 security personnel. Militants then opened fire, leading to heavy gunfire that killed 10 attackers. Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the forces, calling their response an "exemplary end" to the assailants. The attack was claimed by Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). This incident follows the killing of 33 militants who hijacked the Jaffar Express train in Balochistan. Authorities continue investigating the identities of the attackers.

Donald Trump's planned tariffs on Indian pharmaceuticals may raise drug costs for millions of Americans. India supplies nearly 50% of the US's generic drugs, saving $219B in 2022. Experts warn tariffs could worsen drug shortages, especially for hypertension and mental health medications. Indian firms, already operating on thin margins, may struggle with higher costs. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently visited the US to negotiate a deal. Trump claims India will cut tariffs, but no official confirmation has been given. Industry leaders caution that relocation to the US would be costly and take years.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced the abolition of NHS England to bring healthcare "back into democratic control." The government says the move will cut costs and improve care, but thousands of jobs will be lost. The shutdown is expected to take two years. The opposition welcomes reforms but warns of major disruptions. Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the NHS had become costly while delivering poor service. Experts say the decision could simplify healthcare management but does not solve the UK’s social care crisis. The government plans further reviews, but full changes may not happen until 2028.

Canada’s Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly has warned G7 countries about Donald Trump’s trade policies. As Canada prepares to host the G7 foreign ministers, she said if the U.S. can target Canada, then no country is safe. Joly criticised U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, calling them economic coercion. She also raised concerns about Trump’s comments suggesting Canada should become the 51st U.S. state. Canada has retaliated with its own tariffs. Incoming Prime Minister Mark Carney called Trump’s trade war a crisis. Outgoing PM Justin Trudeau warned that even Canada’s democracy and sovereignty should not be taken for granted.

A top Kremlin aide has criticised the US-Ukrainian ceasefire proposal, calling it a temporary break for Ukraine’s military. Yuri Ushakov, President Putin’s adviser, said the plan does not help in achieving a lasting peace. He added that Russia wants a long-term solution that protects its interests. President Putin is expected to give a detailed response soon. Meanwhile, US officials have pushed for an unconditional ceasefire. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said Russia’s silence shows it wants to continue the war. He hopes US pressure will force Moscow to stop fighting. The war in Ukraine has been ongoing for three years.