Name: Israel-Hamas war: Egypt proposes 'framework to end the conflict in Gaza'
Uploaded: 2023-12-28T23:28:49.000+05:30
Duration: T00M33S
Channel: Editorji News Desk
Description: Israel-Hamas war: Egypt proposes 'framework to end the conflict in Gaza'

In 2025, Saudi Arabia will prohibit children from attending Hajj, prioritizing safety. The focus is on first-time pilgrims, improving infrastructure, and revising visa policies for 14 countries to curb unauthorized Hajj entries.

Saudi Restricts Children from 2025 Hajj Pilgrimage

In 2025, Saudi Arabia will prohibit children from attending Hajj, prioritizing safety. The focus is on first-time pilgrims, improving infrastructure, and revising visa policies for 14 countries to curb unauthorized Hajj entries.

In a major announcement, Saudi Arabia has declared that children will not be allowed to accompany pilgrims for the Hajj pilgrimage in 2025. This decision, outlined by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, aims to protect children from the significant overcrowding risks typically associated with the annual pilgrimage.
The ministry emphasized that this measure prioritizes the safety and well-being of children, aiming to shield them from potential harm amidst the dense gathering of pilgrims.
In addition to this decision, Saudi Arabia has committed to prioritizing first-time pilgrims for this year's Hajj. A host of safety enhancements have been introduced, including safety awareness campaigns, the implementation of modern intelligent systems designed to streamline the flow of pilgrims within sacred areas, and significant infrastructure upgrades such as modernized tent camps and pedestrian pathways.
Registration for the 2025 Hajj season, which is anticipated to run from June 4th to 6th, contingent on lunar observations, has officially commenced. Saudi citizens have the option to register via the Nusuk app or through the official online portal.
In a related development, Saudi Arabia is also revising its visa policies starting on February 1, 2025. This change restricts travellers from 14 countries to single-entry visas, a move designed to curb unauthorized Hajj participation by those entering on elongated visit visas.
Those affected by the new visa restrictions are from Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen. Consequently, one-year multiple-entry visas for tourism, business, and family visits are suspended for these nations. The new rule allows only single-entry visas, with a 30-day validity and maximum stay.
However, the new visa changes do not affect Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, or residency visas. The Saudi government has pointed out that this decision stems from concerns regarding the misuse of multiple-entry visas, with instances of travellers overstaying to work or partake in Hajj without appropriate permissions.

Former President Trump renames Gulf of Mexico as 'Gulf of America,' creating 'Gulf of America Day.' The change aims to boost American pride amid US-Mexico tensions.

Trump's Gulf Rename: 'Gulf of America'

Trump renames Gulf of Mexico to 'Gulf of America.' February 9 is 'Gulf of America Day,' reflecting US pride in historical contributions. The change, amid US-Mexico tensions, aims to highlight the region's significance.

In a bold move, former US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order officially renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America" and declared February 9 as "Gulf of America Day." This announcement follows the previous Executive Order 14172 from January 20, 2025, which initially set the renaming in motion.
The executive order, titled "Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness," directs the US Secretary of the Interior to complete the formalization of the "Gulf of America" name change within 30 days. Trump signed the proclamation aboard Air Force One while en route from Palm Beach, Florida, to New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX, marking his first visit to the region since the renaming.
The US Coast Guard has already begun adopting the term "Gulf of America" in its communications. The renamed Gulf, as defined in the executive order, encompasses the US Continental Shelf area bordered by Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida and extends to the maritime boundaries with Mexico and Cuba.
Underlining the significance of the renaming, Trump called on Americans to celebrate Gulf of America Day with events and activities highlighting the region's economic contributions. He emphasized the historical significance of the area to American trade and framed the renaming as a recognition of the US's role in its development.
"As my administration restores American pride in the history of American greatness, it is fitting and appropriate for our great nation to come together and commemorate this momentous occasion and the renaming of the Gulf of America," Trump remarked aboard Air Force One.
The change will be reflected in official government documents and maps, though it remains uncertain whether educational institutions will adopt the new name.
This renaming comes amid escalating tensions between Trump's administration and Mexico. Recently, Trump threatened to levy a 25% tax on Mexican goods but paused after Mexico agreed to deploy 10,000 National Guard soldiers to the border. The move to rename the Gulf, thus, takes on added geopolitical significance.

 The UK government made 609 immigration-related arrests in January, a 73% increase from last year, as Labour toughens enforcement against illegal migration and people smuggling gangs.

Over 600 arrested for working illegally in UK: govt

&nbsp;The UK government made 609 immigration-related arrests in January, a 73% increase from last year, as Labour toughens enforcement against illegal migration and people smuggling gangs.

UK immigration enforcement teams made over 600 arrests in January, a 73 percent increase on the same period a year ago, as part of the new Labour government's plan to tackle undocumented migration and people smuggling gangs, officials said on Monday.
The 609 arrests, compared to 352 in January 2024, were made during visits to over 800 premises including nail bars, restaurants, car washes and convenience stores, a government statement said.
On taking office last year Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer immediately scrapped his Conservative predecessor Rishi Sunak's plan to deter undocumented migration to the UK by deporting new arrivals to Rwanda.
Instead he pledged to "smash the gangs" to bring the numbers down.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said employers had for too long been able to "exploit illegal migrants and too many people have been able to arrive and work illegally with no enforcement action ever taken".
"We are boosting enforcement to record levels alongside tough new legislation to smash the criminal gangs that undermine our border security and who have been getting away with it for far too long," she said.
Undocumented migration by people who take small, perilously unsafe boats across the English Channel from northern France to southern England was a major issue at last July's general election which brought Starmer's Labour Party to power.
Regular migration, which is currently running at historically high levels, estimated at 728,000 for the year to June 2024, was also a hot button issue at the polls.
Starmer needs to reduce both legal and undocumented migration to fend off growing support for Nigel Farage's anti-immigration Reform UK party, which won roughly four million votes during the July 4 poll -- an unprecedented haul for a far-right party.
Some 36,816 people were detected in the Channel in 2024, a 25 percent increase from the 29,437 who arrived in 2023, provisional figures from the interior ministry showed.
As part of his plan to reduce undocumented migration, Starmer has also set up a new Border Security Command and strengthened cooperation with European partners, including Europol.
Britain has signed joint action plans with Germany and Iraq aimed at tackling the smuggling gangs. They build on earlier agreements signed under the previous Conservative government, including with France and Albania.
The government also points to an increase in the return of irregular migrants to their countries of origin, the highest since 2017.
Its new Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill, designed to give law enforcement officials "counter-terror style powers" to break up gangs bringing irregular migrants across the Channel, is due to get its second reading in parliament on Monday.

Bangladeshi court acquits Mahmudur Rahman, overturning previous conviction in a conspiracy case involving the Prime Minister's son.

Bangladesh court acquits newspaper editor in plot to abduct and kill Hasina’s son

In a landmark ruling, Mahmudur Rahman is acquitted by a Bangladeshi court over alleged conspiracy charges, marking a pivotal moment amidst political tensions.

Mahmudur Rahman's acquittal highlights flaws in Bangladesh's high-profile legal cases, with significant political repercussions.

Judiciary Overturns Conviction, Declares Charges as False and Fabricated
In a significant legal development, a Bangladesh court on Monday acquitted Mahmudur Rahman, editor of the daily Amar Desh, in a case linked to an alleged 2015 plot to abduct and kill Sheikh Hasina&rsquo;s son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, in the United States.
The Dhaka 4th Additional Metropolitan Sessions Judge, Tarique Aziz, ruled in favor of Rahman, allowing his appeal and overturning his previous conviction and seven-year prison sentence. The judge declared the charges against him false and fabricated, leading to his acquittal.
Rahman&rsquo;s Reaction and Legal History
Speaking to journalists after the verdict, Rahman expressed relief at finally receiving justice and reaffirmed his commitment to fighting against authoritarianism. He described his legal battle as part of a broader struggle for democracy in Bangladesh.
Rahman was previously sentenced in absentia on August 17 last year. However, after spending over five and a half years in exile, he returned to Bangladesh on September 27, 2023. Two days later, he surrendered to the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate&rsquo;s Court in Dhaka and was taken into custody.
Case Background and Other Convictions
The case was originally filed on August 3, 2015, following allegations that Mamun, a vice president of Jatiyatabadi Samajik Sangskritik Sangstha, along with senior Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leaders, had conspired in the UK, US, and Bangladesh to abduct and kill Joy, who was serving as an adviser to Prime Minister Hasina.
Several others were sentenced to seven years in absentia, including senior journalist Shafik Rehman, Mamun&rsquo;s son Rizvi Ahmed Caesar, and US-based businessman Mizanur Rahman Bhuiyan.
Hasina&rsquo;s Political Situation
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, now 77, has been residing in India since August 5 last year after mass student-led protests toppled her Awami League&rsquo;s 16-year rule. The unrest led to widespread political shifts, adding further complexity to Bangladesh&rsquo;s governance and judicial landscape.
A Verdict with Far-Reaching Implications
The court&rsquo;s decision to acquit Rahman and dismiss the charges not only highlights flaws in the legal process surrounding high-profile cases but also signals a turning point in Bangladesh&rsquo;s evolving political and judicial scenario. The case remains a critical marker of the country&rsquo;s political tensions and the role of the judiciary in navigating such complexities.
&nbsp;

Donald Trump announced the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk, including engineers Akash Bobba and Nikhil Rajpal.

Trump and Musk Launch DOGE in Govt Efficiency

Donald Trump announced the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk, including engineers Akash Bobba and Nikhil Rajpal.

Donald Trump, the former U.S. President, announced the establishment of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an intriguingly named institution under the direction of Elon Musk. DOGE has made headlines with its secretive operations, notably concerning its 40-member team, which notably includes two Indian-origin engineers, Akash Bobba and Nikhil Rajpal.&nbsp;
Akash Bobba, a 22-year-old graduate of the Management, Entrepreneurship, and Technology program at the University of California, Berkeley, has an eclectic resume despite lacking direct experience in government work. His background includes internships with industry giants like Meta and Palantir, as well as experience at the hedge fund Bridgewater Associates. Bobba is skilled in data analytics, AI, and financial modeling. Highlighting his capabilities, a former classmate, Charis Zhang, shared an incident where Bobba successfully rewrote an entire project codebase, leading their team to top their class.
Nikhil Rajpal, who prefers to go by Nik, is approximately 30 years old. He has a dual background in Computer Science and History, both from UC Berkeley. Rajpal's professional experiences include working at Twitter prior to Elon Musk's acquisition and contributing to Tesla's console redesign. He previously led a libertarian student group promoting principles like minimal government and maximum individual liberty.&nbsp;
Within DOGE, Rajpal has been tasked with responsibilities at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). On the directive of acting Commerce Secretary Jeremy Pelter, he has been granted editor access to NOAA's Google sites.
The appointment and tasks assigned to these tech-savvy individuals reflect DOGE's unconventional approach, driven by Musk's vision of technological and governmental innovation.

The Bengali signs honor East London's Bangladeshi community, celebrating cultural diversity and attracting global attention.

Bilingual Signs at Whitechapel Spark Debate

The installation of bilingual signs at London's Whitechapel Station has sparked a debate, prompted by MP Rupert Lowe's call for English-only signage.

A bilingual sign at Whitechapel Station in London has sparked debate, with UK MP Rupert Lowe calling for exclusive English signage. The Great Yarmouth MP shared a photo of the English and Bengali sign on X, criticizing the use of multiple languages. His remarks gained attention, drawing a supportive response from tech mogul Elon Musk, who simply commented, "Yes."&nbsp;
Rupert Lowe, the MP for Great Yarmouth, shared a photo of the bilingual sign at Whitechapel Station on his official X account, stating: "This is London- the station name should be in English, and English only." Lowe, a member of Reform UK, made the remark on Sunday, prompting widespread discussion online.
His post quickly went viral, attracting a response from tech mogul Elon Musk, who commented with a simple "Yes." Musk, a notable figure aligned with former US President Donald Trump, had recently suggested that Nigel Farage should be replaced as the leader of Reform UK, seeming to endorse Lowe's stance.
Musk has previously sought to influence British politics and has criticised Prime Minister Keir Starmer repeatedly since anti-immigration riots last summer. He backed calls for a national inquiry into the handling of cases of rape by men of Pakistani heritage of underage girls by the government's prosecution service which Starmer previously ran.
Some social media users echoed Lowe's sentiment, while others defended the multilingual signs. The Bengali signage, introduced in 2022, honors the significant contributions of the Bangladeshi community in East London. This initiative, funded by Tower Hamlets Council, aims to celebrate the area's rich cultural diversity.&nbsp;
Home to the UK's largest Bangladeshi community, Whitechapel showcases this cultural recognition. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee lauded the move on X, highlighting the global importance of the Bengali language and advocating for cultural unity among the diaspora. "It is a victory of our culture and heritage," she noted.

Claims that Trump recognized February 9 as 'Gulf of America Day' are false. Such changes need international approvals and lack credible documentation.

Donald Trump recognises February 9 as ‘Gulf of America Day’

Assertions that Trump declared February 9 as 'Gulf of America Day' are unfounded. Renaming the Gulf of Mexico would require international agreements, missing from any credible reports.

The claim that Trump declared February 9 as 'Gulf of America Day' is false. Such changes would require international agreements and are not documented by credible sources.

US President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation recognising February 9 as "the first-ever Gulf of America Day" after a recent executive order by him to rename the Gulf of Mexico.
Trump signed the proclamation on Sunday on his way to the Super Bowl in New Orleans, which sits on the gulf.
&ldquo;We are flying right over it right now,&rdquo; Trump said, sitting aboard Air Force One with a pen in his hand. &ldquo;So we thought this would be appropriate.&rdquo; "Today, I am making my first visit to the Gulf of America since its renaming," Trump said in the proclamation published on the White House website.
Trump had signed an executive order on his inauguration on January 20, giving the Department of the Interior 30 days to take &ldquo;all appropriate action&rdquo; needed to facilitate the name change.
 Just after Trump signed the executive order, the US Coast Guard started using the term Gulf of America, marking the US government&rsquo;s first official use of the term.
"As my administration restores American pride in the history of American greatness, it is fitting and appropriate for our great Nation to come together and commemorate this momentous occasion and the renaming of the Gulf of America," Trump said in the proclamation.
"NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim February 9, 2025, as Gulf of America Day," he said.
He called upon public officials and all the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate programmes, ceremonies, and activities.

In Mashhad, Iran, a woman's courageous protest against harsh dress codes captured international attention, fueling debates on women's rights.

Mashhad Protest: Iranian Woman Defies Dress Code

Woman's bold protest against Iran's strict dress code in Mashhad makes international headlines, igniting discussions on women's rights.

In a bold protest that has gained widespread attention, a woman in Iran's second-largest city, Mashhad, was filmed stripping naked and climbing onto a police car, yelling at armed officers as she stood defiantly on the vehicle's hood.
The viral footage, shared extensively on social media, depicts her moving onto the windshield and making a brave gesture while officers tried unsuccessfully to remove her, with one officer reportedly reaching into the car for a weapon.
The incident was reported by Euronews, noting that a male officer, armed with an automatic weapon, appeared hesitant to detain her due to her state of undress.
Although the woman's exact motivation remains unclear, social media reports suggest she was protesting against Iran&rsquo;s increasingly harsh clothing laws for women. Her act has elicited diverse reactions, with some questioning her mental health and others viewing her as a powerful symbol of resistance.
This dramatic event is part of a broader movement across Iran, where women are challenging the stringent dress codes enforced by the morality police. Previously, a woman in Tehran University drew attention by stripping to her underwear, raising widespread discussion online.
In another related incident, at Mehrabad airport, a woman confronted a cleric, removing his turban and exclaiming, "So you have honour now?"&nbsp;
The protest has attracted international attention, galvanizing solidarity for Iranian women&rsquo;s rights. A post on &lsquo;X&rsquo; commended the women&rsquo;s bravery as a potent statement against tyranny, expressing hopes for freedom from oppression. Others praised their courage and resilience.
Iran's mandatory hijab law, requiring women to cover their hair and bodies, has long been contentious. Non-compliance can lead to fines and prison sentences. The incident has intensified discussions about the morality police and their enforcement of these laws, with criticism even from some conservative figures within Iran.
Last December, legislation introducing harsher penalties for those violating the dress code was passed but has since been halted following global protests from activist groups and organizations such as Amnesty International.

A judge in Massachusetts has temporarily stopped a controversial buyout plan led by Elon Musk to shrink the U.S. government.

Judge Blocks Elon Musk's Government Buyout Plan

A judge in Massachusetts has temporarily stopped a controversial buyout plan led by Elon Musk to shrink the U.S. government. This initiative, supported by Trump, offers federal employees a buyout to resign but faces opposition on legality and potential risks.

A judge in Massachusetts has temporarily stopped a controversial buyout plan led by Elon Musk to shrink the U.S. government. This initiative, supported by Trump, offers federal employees a buyout to resign but faces opposition on legality and potential risks.

In a significant legal development, a federal judge has temporarily halted a controversial initiative led by billionaire Elon Musk aimed at drastically reducing the size of the U.S. government by encouraging federal employees to accept a mass buyout.
The injunction, issued on Thursday by a federal judge in Massachusetts, delays the plan's initial deadline of midnight Thursday to the following Monday, pending a court hearing on the matter.
The buyout plan, directed at over two million federal workers, offers eight months' pay for those who choose to resign, with the alternative being potential future layoffs.
Thus far, over 40,000 employees have taken the offer, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, although this represents a small fraction of the total workforce.
The move is spearheaded by Musk through an organization known as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), with the backing of former President Donald Trump.
It has faced opposition from labor unions representing around 800,000 civil servants and Democratic members of Congress, who question the legality of threatening to fire government employees.
The initiative is part of a broader campaign for budget cuts, which, fueled by anti-government rhetoric from Trump and his allies, has already disrupted major federal departments and agencies.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), for instance, has been significantly impacted, with plans to reduce its workforce from over 10,000 to just under 300 staff globally.
Critics argue that such drastic cuts would halt essential operations, including food distribution&mdash;critical comments were made by Randy Chester, vice president of the American Foreign Service Association.
The legality of Musk's involvement and the extent of his access to sensitive government data have also raised concerns. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent attempted to quell fears by stating that Musk's access is limited and monitored.
Amidst these developments, questions remain over the legal authority of Trump's administration to implement such a sweeping buyout plan and whether participants would ultimately receive promised benefits.
The plan's deployment mirrors strategies Musk previously utilized when acquiring Twitter, now known as X, by sending sweeping communications that implied ultimatum-like choices for employees. Unions have urged federal employees to scrutinize the offers carefully, highlighting the potential risks of agreeing to terms that may lack congressional approval.
This unfolding situation underscores tensions surrounding the initiative's impact on the federal workforce and its implications for the structure and future governance of U.S. governmental agencies.

Global security concerns prompt several countries to limit DeepSeek's use, which China criticizes as geopolitical. India restricts AI tools in government over confidentiality fears. DeepSeek, affordable at USD 6 million, becomes the top app on Apple'

Countries Limit DeepSeek AI Use Amid Security Concerns

Global security concerns prompt several countries to limit DeepSeek's use, which China criticizes as geopolitical. India restricts AI tools in government over confidentiality fears. DeepSeek, affordable at USD 6 million, becomes the top app on Apple's Appstore.

Global security concerns prompt several countries to limit DeepSeek's use, which China criticizes as geopolitical. India restricts AI tools in government over confidentiality fears. DeepSeek, affordable at USD 6 million, becomes the top app on Apple's Appstore

In a growing wave of caution, several nations, including India, have placed restrictions on the usage of China's new AI tool, DeepSeek, citing security concerns. In response, China has criticized these moves as geopolitical maneuvers and pledged to defend its companies' rights.
During a recent media briefing, Guo Jiakun, the spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, highlighted China's opposition to what it views as an undue expansion of national security concepts to influence trade and technology matters. Guo refuted allegations related to China's 2017 national intelligence law, emphasizing that Beijing does not compel companies to collect or mishandle data. "We have never asked and will never ask any company or individual to collect or store data against laws," he asserted.
Among the countries implementing restrictions, India has taken a notable stance. The Indian Finance Ministry has instructed its officials to refrain from using AI-related tools such as ChatGPT and DeepSeek on official devices, pointing to data confidentiality risks. A directive issued on January 29 underscored the ministry's concerns regarding the potential exposure of sensitive government information through these tools.
Globally, governments such as those of South Korea, Italy, Australia, the US, and Japan have similarly limited access to DeepSeek, wary of its implications.
DeepSeek has garnered significant attention internationally due to its low-cost model, priced at just USD 6 million, starkly contrasting with the billion-dollar budgets typical in the AI field. The R1 model of DeepSeek utilizes substantially less computing power compared to established AI models like ChatGPT, marking a paradigm shift.
Notably, DeepSeek has eclipsed ChatGPT to become the most downloaded free app on Apple's Appstore, leaving the US tech industry, known for its heavy investment in AI, in surprise.
As this situation develops, the trade and tech landscape continues to be shaped by national policies and geopolitical tensions surrounding emerging technologies.

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Israel-Hamas war: Egypt proposes 'framework to end the conflict in Gaza'

Egypt has not revealed the details of the plans which the country said would be shared after they received a response from the involved parties&nbsp;

Diaa Rashwan, the head of Egypt&rsquo;s State Information Service said on December 28 that the country had presented a framework to end the conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;
While stating that the proposal is an attempt to bring viewpoints between all concerned parties closer, gradually restoring peace in the region, Rashwan said that it would be a three-stage process that would lead to a ceasefire.
Further, Rashwan said that the details of the plans would be shared after they received a response from the parties with whom they had shared the framework. &nbsp;

A 5.3-magnitude earthquake struck Santorini, Greece, prompting over 11,000 residents to leave. Scientists remain baffled by the unprecedented seismic activity, though officials report no immediate danger.

Strongest-yet quake hits Greece's Santorini island

A 5.3-magnitude earthquake struck Santorini, Greece, prompting over 11,000 residents to leave. Scientists remain baffled by the unprecedented seismic activity, though officials report no immediate danger.

An earthquake of 5.3 magnitude hit the Greek island of Santorini late Monday, officials said, the strongest yet of the thousands of tremors that have shaken the area, prompting thousands to leave.
Felt as far away as Athens, the undersea quake caused neither damage nor injuries. It was followed by another 5.0-magnitude tremor two hours later.
According to Athens University, nearly 13,000 tremors have been recorded between January 26 and February 8 in the area between Santorini and the neighbouring Aegean islands of Amorgos, Ios and Anafi.
Over 11,000 residents and seasonal workers have left Santorini, normally home to 15,500 people, and the island has been placed on a state of emergency by authorities. Schools were shut last week and will remain closed till Friday.
The tremors have baffled scientists, who say that the region has not experienced seismic activity on this scale since records began in 1964.
Santorini lies atop a dormant volcano which last erupted in 1950.
Visiting the island on Friday, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said that volcanic activity in the area was "not unusual" and did not entail any "immediate, particular danger".
One of Greece's top travel destinations, Santorini attracted about 3.4 million visitors in 2023. Upwards of a million of those were cruise ship passengers.

Former President Trump begins dismantling Biden's DEI initiatives, aligning with opposing progressive policies. Rubio skips G20, citing focus on equality.

Trump administration scraps DEI policies, sparking nationwide debate

In a notable policy shift, Trump dismantles DEI initiatives, opposing Biden's policies. Rubio skips G20 over its focus on equality, reinforcing a merit-based approach.

Trump dismantles DEI initiatives, aligning with opposition to progressive policies. Rubio skips G20, criticizing its focus on equality and solidarity.

In a significant policy shift, U.S. President Donald Trump has moved to dismantle the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives introduced by his predecessor, Joe Biden. The decision aligns with the Trump administration&rsquo;s broader stance against progressive policies, with officials arguing that DEI measures undermine merit-based systems and promote divisive identity politics.
Echoing this sentiment, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently announced he would skip the G20 Summit in South Africa, criticizing its emphasis on "solidarity, equality, &amp; sustainability"&mdash;which he equated with DEI and climate change&mdash;two issues that the administration has actively opposed.
What is DEI?
DEI policies aim to foster workplace diversity, ensure fair treatment, and promote inclusivity. Biden&rsquo;s 2021 executive order on DEI in the federal workforce defined these principles as:
Diversity: Recognizing and including various racial, ethnic, and cultural identities. Equity: Ensuring fairness in opportunities, particularly for historically disadvantaged communities. Inclusion: Valuing diverse talents and skills across all backgrounds. The push for DEI gained momentum after the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests, with corporations and government institutions pledging to address systemic inequalities.
Why is Trump Rolling Back DEI?
Trump and his supporters argue that DEI policies prioritize identity over merit and discriminate against white Americans. Some conservative voices blame DEI for unrelated issues&mdash;most recently, Trump controversially linked a mid-air collision between an American Airlines flight and a military helicopter to diversity-focused hiring practices, though no evidence supports this claim.
The Trump administration has already dismantled affirmative action in college admissions, with the Supreme Court striking down race-based considerations in 2023.
Major Executive Orders on DEI Trump signed two key executive orders targeting DEI:
EO 14151 - &ldquo;Ending Radical And Wasteful Government DEI Programs&rdquo;Orders federal agencies to dismantle DEI initiatives. Mandates reporting of all employees working in DEI or &ldquo;environmental justice&rdquo; roles. EO 141713 - &ldquo;Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity&rdquo;Removes DEI-based hiring incentives in government contracts. Modifies the 1965 Equal Employment Opportunity Act to discourage affirmative action. Corporate Response: DEI Rollbacks and Resistance U.S. corporations are divided on DEI under Trump&rsquo;s policies. Meta, Amazon, and Google have scaled back diversity programs, while Apple, Costco, Goldman Sachs, and Cisco have reaffirmed their commitment to inclusive hiring. Companies like McDonald&rsquo;s have rebranded their DEI initiatives to avoid political backlash.
Does India Have DEI Policies?
While DEI originated in the U.S. civil rights movement, India has long-standing affirmative action policies aimed at uplifting historically marginalized communities.
Constitutional reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) have existed since 1950.The Mandal Commission of 1990 introduced quotas for Other Backward Classes (OBCs). Workplace inclusivity efforts have gained traction in India following movements like #MeToo and the decriminalization of homosexuality (Section 377).
What&rsquo;s Next?
Trump&rsquo;s DEI rollback marks a significant ideological shift, fueling debates on meritocracy, inclusion, and equal opportunity. With corporations split on the issue, the future of workplace diversity in the U.S. remains uncertain, as businesses weigh political pressures against long-term inclusivity goals. &nbsp;

In a bold move, Trump revokes security clearances from key Biden-era officials. This affects figures like Blinken and Sullivan, countering Biden’s earlier actions and creating political ripples.

Trump revokes Biden’s security clearance, expanding crackdown on former officials

Trump revokes security clearances from prominent Biden-era figures, impacting national security dynamics. This strategic move challenges Biden's earlier restrictions and carries significant political implications.

Trump revokes security clearances of key Biden officials including Blinken and Sullivan. This move counters Biden&rsquo;s previous block on Trump's intelligence access, stirring political and security ramifications.

In a significant escalation of his security policy, US President Donald Trump has revoked the security clearances of dozens of officials linked to the previous administration, including former President Joe Biden. Trump justified the decision on Truth Social, stating, &ldquo;There is no need for Joe Biden to continue receiving access to classified information.&rdquo;
Notable Figures Affected Apart from Biden, other high-profile officials who lost their security clearances include:
Anthony Blinken &ndash; Former Secretary of State Jake Sullivan &ndash; Former National Security Adviser Lisa Monaco &ndash; Biden&rsquo;s Deputy Attorney General Mark Milley &ndash; Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
Understanding Security Clearance A security clearance grants individuals access to classified government information and facilities. The clearance process involves background checks, interviews, and sometimes polygraph tests to ensure that the individual is trustworthy and reliable.
Who Needs Security Clearance? Security clearances are typically required for:
Federal employees in national security departments (e.g., Department of Defense, CIA, NSA)
 Military personnel handling defense strategies and intelligence
 Private contractors working in defense, technology, and government consulting
 Government agency employees involved in sensitive policymaking
 Levels of Security Clearance The U.S. security clearance system consists of three levels:
Confidential &ndash; The lowest level, requiring a seven-year background check, renewed every 15 years. Secret &ndash; Covers information that could cause serious damage to national security. Requires a ten-year background check, with 25% of applications undergoing further investigation. Top Secret &ndash; The highest clearance level, requiring an extensive background investigation, credit history check, and personal interviews. It is reevaluated every five years.
 Presidential Security Access
Unlike government officials, a sitting U.S. president does not require a security clearance. The president has automatic access to nearly all classified information, with the sole exception of nuclear secrets, which require congressional approval for declassification. Traditionally, former presidents retain access to intelligence briefings as a courtesy. However, this practice was broken in 2021 when Biden barred Trump from intelligence briefings, citing &ldquo;erratic behavior.&rdquo;
Political Fallout
Trump&rsquo;s move follows Biden&rsquo;s unprecedented decision in 2021 to block Trump&rsquo;s intelligence access. Now, Trump has turned the tables, arguing that Biden &ldquo;set the precedent&rdquo; and accusing him of having memory issues that compromise security.
With tensions rising in Washington, this decision could have lasting political and security implications as the 2025 administration reshapes national security policies.
&nbsp;

The UK's Labour government crackdown on illegal immigration affects key lifestyle sectors. Record deportations, increased fines, and new Border Security legislation underscore this transformative shift.

UK cracks down on illegal migrants in nationwide immigration blitz

Labour's hardline immigration stance reshapes UK lifestyle sectors like dining and grooming. New legislation may further change the landscape.

Labour's immigration policy sees increased enforcement impacting UK industries, leading to record deportations and fines.

Taking a cue from former US President Donald Trump's tough stance on immigration, the UK government has launched a widespread crackdown on illegal migrants, targeting businesses such as Indian restaurants, nail bars, convenience stores, and car washes that employ undocumented workers.
Mass Deportations and Increased Raids
The UK Home Office released a video showing illegal migrants being escorted off a bus and boarding a deportation flight. According to official figures, nearly 19,000 people, including failed asylum seekers, foreign criminals, and immigration offenders, have been deported since the Labour Party took office in July last year.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The public must have confidence in the UK's immigration system. Through our Plan for Change, we have removed almost 19,000 people including failed asylum seekers, foreign criminals and immigration offenders from the UK since July 2024. <a href="https://t.co/QY4tpQDqSP">pic.twitter.com/QY4tpQDqSP</a>
&mdash; Home Office (@ukhomeoffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/ukhomeoffice/status/1888998675415761399?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper revealed that January 2025 saw record-breaking immigration enforcement activity, with officials conducting 828 raids and making 609 arrests&mdash;a 48% increase in raids and a 73% rise in arrests compared to the same period last year.
Targeting Illegal Employment
A recent raid on an Indian restaurant in Humberside led to the arrest of seven individuals, while four others were detained. The Home Office emphasized that while illegal employment is widespread across sectors, a significant number of cases involve restaurants, takeaways, cafes, and the food and tobacco industry.
&ldquo;The immigration rules must be respected and enforced,&rdquo; Cooper stated. &ldquo;For too long, employers have been able to hire and exploit illegal migrants, which not only fuels human trafficking but also undermines the economy.&rdquo;
The UK government noted that crackdowns on illegal migrants increased by 38% between July 2024 and January 2025 compared to the same period the previous year. Deportations have also hit their highest level since 2018, with the four largest chartered deportation flights in UK history removing a total of 850 people.
Employers found hiring illegal workers face fines of up to &pound;60,000 per worker, with 1,090 civil penalty notices issued during the same period.
Strong Message Against Illegal Migration
Eddy Montgomery, Director of Enforcement, Compliance, and Crime at the Home Office, emphasized the government's unwavering stance on illegal migration: &ldquo;These figures highlight our commitment to tackling immigration offenses. There is no hiding place from the law.&rdquo;
He also noted that many illegal workers endure poor and exploitative working conditions, reinforcing the need for strict enforcement measures to protect vulnerable individuals.
Upcoming Immigration Bill in UK Parliament
The crackdown comes as the Labour government prepares to introduce the Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill for its second reading in Parliament this week. The proposed legislation seeks to grant law enforcement expanded powers to combat organized crime networks facilitating illegal immigration, including the authority to seize mobile phones from migrants upon arrival.
The Opposition Conservative Party has criticized the bill as "too weak" and is calling for harsher restrictions on permanent residency eligibility for all migrants. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp stated, &ldquo;Under the new leadership of Kemi Badenoch, the Conservatives are proposing firm, effective immigration reforms. Our country is our home, not a hotel.&rdquo;
Conclusion
With immigration enforcement at an all-time high, the UK government&rsquo;s aggressive stance underscores its determination to curb illegal migration and strengthen border security. As the Border Security Bill is set to be debated in Parliament, the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the future of UK immigration policy.
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French President Macron greets PM Modi in Paris for vital talks ahead of the AI Summit. The visit highlights France-India ties with strategic discussions.

PM Modi greeted by ‘friend’ Macron in France

In Paris, PM Modi and President Macron join for a dynamic AI Summit. Modi welcomed warmly, reinforcing India-France ties, with various events including a WWI tribute.

Modi enjoys a warm French welcome and discusses strategic partnerships with Macron, participating in events like the AI Summit and WWI homage.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed with a hug by French President Emmanuel Macron at a welcome dinner ahead of co-chairing the AI Summit in Paris.
&ldquo;Delighted to meet my friend, President Macron in Paris,&rdquo; Modi posted on X on Monday.
At the dinner, the prime minister also met US Vice President JD Vance, who is also in France to attend the AI Summit.
"PM @narendramodi interacts with President @EmmanuelMacron and USA @VP @JDVance in Paris," the Prime Minister's Office said in a post on X.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Here are highlights from the memorable welcome in Paris yesterday. <a href="https://t.co/lgsWBlZqCl">pic.twitter.com/lgsWBlZqCl</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1889147355448111471?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2025</a></blockquote>
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi arrived in Paris for the first leg of his two-nation tour that will later take him to the US.
During his three-day visit to France, Modi will co-chair the AI Action Summit with Macron in Paris, hold bilateral talks with him, and address business leaders.
He received a grand diaspora welcome as he landed in Paris. &ldquo;A memorable welcome in Paris! The cold weather didn&rsquo;t deter the Indian community from showing their affection this evening. Grateful to our diaspora and proud of them for their accomplishments,&rdquo; he said.
Modi and Macron will also hold discussions in both restricted and delegation formats and address the India-France CEO's Forum.
In his departure statement, the prime minister said that the bilateral segment of his visit will provide an opportunity to review the progress on the 2047 Horizon Roadmap for India-France strategic partnership along with "my friend" President Macron.
On Wednesday, the two leaders will visit Mazargues War Cemetery, maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission in Marseille, to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers in World War I.
They will inaugurate the newest Consulate General of India in Marseille.
This is Modi's sixth visit to France, according to officials.

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