India has raised concerns over pro-Khalistan activities in the US and New Zealand. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in a meeting with US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, highlighted the anti-India actions of the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) group operating in the US, urging stringent measures against this illegal organization. Gabbard emphasized the shared commitment of both nations to combat terrorism, particularly Islamist extremism. Separately, Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the issue with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, stressing the need for united action against terrorism, referencing past attacks like Christchurch 2019 and Mumbai 2008. Both leaders agreed on the unacceptability of terrorism in all forms and the necessity for strict measures against perpetrators.

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are set to return to Earth on March 18, 2025, after an unplanned nine-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Originally scheduled for an eight-day stay, their mission was extended due to technical issues with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, including thruster problems and helium leaks, which prevented its safe return. Consequently, Williams and Wilmore were integrated into NASA's Crew-9 mission. They will return aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule, with a planned splashdown off the Florida coast. During their extended mission, both astronauts contributed significantly to scientific research and station maintenance. Williams, now with approximately 570 days in space, becomes the second most experienced U.S. astronaut, following Peggy Whitson.

The Trump administration deported 261 Venezuelans to El Salvador, alleging ties to the Tren de Aragua gang, despite a federal judge's order temporarily halting such actions. The administration invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, claiming national security concerns. Judge James Boasberg questioned the legality of proceeding with deportations after his directive and demanded detailed flight information by Tuesday. The administration argued that once flights departed U.S. airspace, they were beyond the court's jurisdiction. This incident has sparked a constitutional debate over executive authority and judicial oversight, with critics labeling the deportations as arbitrary and lacking due process.

United States President Donald Trump has escalated his stance against Iran, declaring that any Houthi attacks from Yemen will be attributed directly to Tehran. In a recent post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump stated, "Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon... as being a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of IRAN, and IRAN will be held responsible." This warning follows a series of Houthi assaults on Israeli and commercial vessels in the Red Sea, actions they claim are in retaliation against Israel's blockade of Gaza. Trump's comments suggest potential military repercussions for Iran, marking a significant intensification in U.S. foreign policy towards the region.

Israel has launched extensive airstrikes across Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, resulting in over 100 fatalities, including children. The Israeli military stated the strikes targeted Hamas militants planting explosives. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu authorized the attacks, citing Hamas's repeated refusal to release Israeli hostages and stalled ceasefire negotiations. The recent escalation threatens the fragile truce established in January, which had temporarily halted a conflict that began in October 2023 after a Hamas cross-border attack. The war has led to significant casualties and displacement in Gaza. International mediators are working to prevent further violence and address the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the ongoing blockade limiting essential supplies to Gaza.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon backed India’s bid for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council, citing its vital role in the Indo-Pacific. Speaking at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, he emphasized the need for a rules-based order and opposed hegemonic dominance in the region. Luxon praised India’s contributions to the Quad and highlighted growing defence cooperation. He reaffirmed New Zealand’s commitment to working with India for regional stability, economic partnerships, and maritime security. Luxon and PM Modi also discussed strengthening bilateral ties, emphasizing sovereignty, territorial integrity, and free navigation under international law.

Nagpur witnessed intense clashes after protests by Hindu groups demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Maharashtra’s Sambhaji Nagar. The violence left 20 injured, including 15 police personnel, as vehicles were torched and stones pelted. Authorities imposed prohibitory orders and detained 17 people to curb the unrest. Police blamed rumours for escalating tensions and launched combing operations to identify those involved. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis urged citizens to remain calm, while opposition leaders criticized the government’s handling of the situation. Additional police forces were deployed to prevent further violence as security remained tight across the city.

New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon and Indian PM Narendra Modi shared a lighthearted cricket joke during their defense meeting in New Delhi. Luxon thanked Modi for not mentioning New Zealand’s loss to India in the 2025 Champions Trophy but jokingly reminded him of the Kiwis’ 3-0 Test series win in India. “Let’s avoid a major diplomatic incident,” Luxon quipped, making Modi burst into laughter. He also praised India’s cricket dominance, calling their Champions Trophy victory “heartbreaking” for New Zealand fans. The moment highlighted the strong ties between the two nations beyond politics and defense cooperation.

King Charles met Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at Buckingham Palace in a symbolic show of support for Canada amid tensions with Donald Trump. The King, wearing a red tie, engaged in a private 30-minute conversation with Carney, who joked about his broken Order of Canada pin. While the King remains politically neutral, his recent gestures—including honoring Canada’s flag anniversary and wearing Canadian medals—highlight his commitment. Trump’s calls for Canada to become the 51st US state have sparked outrage among Canadians. Though he postponed a Canada visit due to illness, a trip is expected after Canada’s election.

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are finally returning to Earth after spending nine months on the International Space Station. They were originally part of a short test mission on Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, but technical issues kept them in space longer than planned. A SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule will bring them home. Their journey back begins early Tuesday, with a scheduled splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico. NASA had to delay their return earlier due to weather concerns. After landing, they will undergo medical checks at NASA’s Johnson Space Center before resuming normal activities.