As India prepares to face New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy final on Sunday, several factors suggest a challenging contest for Rohit Sharma and his team. New Zealand's spin attack, led by Mitchell Santner and supported by Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra, offers a variety that could exploit the Dubai pitch conditions. Additionally, the Kiwi pacers' ability to generate seam movement and extra bounce has troubled India's top order in past encounters. Their exceptional fielding unit, highlighted by Glenn Phillips, can save crucial runs and convert half-chances into wickets. Moreover, New Zealand's deep batting lineup, featuring in-form players like Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra, adds to their competitiveness. Having already played India at this venue recently, New Zealand's familiarity with the conditions further bolsters their position, making the final a potentially tough battle for India. 

On March 5, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a stern warning to Hamas, demanding the immediate release of all hostages and the return of deceased individuals. In a Truth Social post, Trump stated, "Release all of the Hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you." He further pledged comprehensive support to Israel to "finish the job," indicating that no Hamas member would be safe if these demands were not met. This ultimatum follows unprecedented direct negotiations between U.S. envoy Adam Boehler and Hamas representatives in Doha, aiming to secure hostage releases and discuss ceasefire terms. The situation remains tense as the international community closely monitors Hamas's response to the escalating pressure.  

During External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to London, a group of Khalistani extremists escalated their protest into a security breach. As Jaishankar departed from Chatham House, an individual rushed towards his vehicle and tore the Indian national flag in the presence of police officers. This incident has raised serious concerns about the security provided to foreign diplomats in the UK. The Indian government has lodged a strong protest, emphasizing that such acts are unacceptable and that the safety of its diplomats must be ensured. 

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar asserted that the Kashmir issue has been largely addressed following significant measures by the Indian government, including the abrogation of Article 370, economic revitalization, and successful elections with high voter participation. Speaking at London's Chatham House, Jaishankar emphasized that the remaining challenge is the retrieval of the region under illegal Pakistani occupation, referring to Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). He underscored India's commitment to reclaiming PoK, aligning with the parliamentary resolution affirming it as an integral part of India. Jaishankar highlighted that the abrogation of Article 370 has renewed national focus on PoK, bringing it back into public consciousness.   

India and New Zealand will meet in the Champions Trophy final for the first time since 2000. New Zealand defeated South Africa by 50 runs in the semi-final, while India beat Australia to reach the final. The last time these teams met in a white-ball final, New Zealand won the 2000 ICC Knockout Trophy. India will aim for revenge in the title clash on Sunday in Dubai. Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson starred in New Zealand's semi-final win, while India's spinners dominated against Australia. The final promises a thrilling contest between two strong teams.

The White House confirmed that US officials are in ongoing talks with Hamas. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the discussions aim to protect American interests but did not share details.   The talks, reportedly held in Doha, Qatar, focus on securing hostages and a possible long-term truce. US hostage envoy Adam Boehler met Hamas representatives, Axios reported.   Despite the US ban on engaging with terrorist groups, Leavitt said Boehler has the authority to negotiate. Israel has been consulted on the discussions. The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas remains uncertain.

Police in Mexico found the dismembered bodies of nine students who went missing on February 27. The victims, four women and five men aged 19 to 30, were found in an abandoned truck near the Puebla-Oaxaca border.   Officers also discovered a bag containing eight pairs of hands. All victims had bullet wounds and signs of torture. Authorities are investigating but have not named any suspects.   The students were last seen traveling for a vacation in Oaxaca. Officials are working with multiple state agencies to track down those responsible.

A London court has found Zhenhao Zou, 28, guilty of drugging and raping 10 women in the UK and China. The PhD student filmed nine of the attacks and kept victims’ belongings as trophies.   Police believe there may be over 50 more victims, mostly Chinese women. Zou used dating apps and WeChat to lure victims before drugging them. Officers found hidden cameras and disturbing videos in his home.   He was also convicted of voyeurism and drug possession with intent to commit a sexual offence. Police urge more victims to come forward.

China has warned the U.S. that it is ready for "any type of war" after President Trump raised tariffs on all Chinese goods. China responded with 10-15% tariffs on U.S. farm products.   Premier Li Qiang announced a 7.2% increase in China’s military budget, saying global tensions are rising. China accused the U.S. of using fentanyl as an excuse for trade measures.   Trump and Xi have not spoken recently, and relations are tense. China says it remains open to foreign investment but will not back down from U.S. pressure.

Russia launched 181 drones and missiles at Ukraine overnight. Ukraine’s air force said 115 drones were shot down. In Odesa, a person died, and parts of the city lost power.   The attacks happened as Donald Trump spoke to Congress, calling for "beautiful" peace. Ukraine’s leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said Russia must stop its attacks for peace talks to happen.   Trump has frozen U.S. aid to Ukraine, making ties between the two nations tense. He also paused intelligence sharing. Zelenskyy now says Ukraine is ready to negotiate, hoping for a lasting peace under Trump’s leadership.