Dublin has finally seen sunlight after 11 consecutive days of overcast skies, equalling a record set in March 1969. Met Éireann confirmed that from February 8 to 18, Dublin Airport recorded zero sunshine, making it the longest dull spell in over 50 years. Locals, relieved by the return of the sun, flocked to Sandymount Beach to enjoy the bright weather. Ireland typically receives between 1,100 and 1,600 sunshine hours annually, with May and June being the sunniest months. The longest recorded sunless streak in Ireland remains 16 days, observed in 1956 and again in 2018-2019.

In a remarkable comeback, Mohammed Shami's 5 for 53 led India to a six-wicket win over Bangladesh in their Champions Trophy opener in Dubai. Shami's performance, following a 14-month injury hiatus, showcased his enduring prowess in ICC tournaments, bringing his tally to 60 wickets in 19 innings, surpassing Zaheer Khan's record. Bangladesh, initially struggling at 35/5, posted 228 thanks to Towhid Hridoy's resilient 100. India's chase was anchored by Shubman Gill's unbeaten 101, securing victory with 21 balls to spare. Shami's dedication during rehabilitation underscores his commitment to the sport. 

  The remains of four Israeli hostages, including Shiri Bibas and her two children, Ariel and Kfir, have been returned to Israel. Hamas claims they were killed in an Israeli airstrike. The United Nations rights chief condemned the public display of bodies in Gaza as a violation of international law. Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed sorrow and sought forgiveness for failing to protect citizens during the attack. Hamas has indicated readiness to release all remaining hostages if the Gaza ceasefire agreement advances to its second phase. Arab states have scheduled an emergency summit on March 4 to discuss post-war reconstruction in Gaza, opposing a US plan for the region. Additionally, regional Saudi meetings aim to consolidate an Arab response to the war and the US proposals.    

  Kashyap 'Kash' Patel has been confirmed as the ninth Director of the FBI, becoming the first person of Indian origin to hold the position. The US Senate approved his nomination by a 51-49 vote, following President Donald Trump's endorsement. Born to Gujarati parents in New York, Patel has a strong background in law and national security, having served as the National Security Advisor. At his Senate confirmation hearing, Patel expressed gratitude and committed to making the FBI "transparent, accountable, and committed to justice." He also shared personal experiences of racism during his youth.    

Facing a series of electoral setbacks, the Indian National Congress is revisiting its 1960s strategy by decentralizing decision-making to empower district units. This approach aims to rejuvenate grassroots connections and address internal divisions that have weakened the party's cohesion. Historically, the 1967 elections marked a significant decline for Congress, with losses in key states and the emergence of strong regional parties. By returning to a decentralized framework, the party seeks to rebuild its foundation and counteract prolonged political challenges.  

Indian conservationist Purnima Devi Barman has been included in Time magazine's Women of the Year 2025 list for her remarkable contributions to wildlife conservation. From Assam, Barman founded the "Hargilla Army," a group of women dedicated to protecting the greater adjutant stork, improving its conservation status from endangered to near-threatened. She also empowers local women by involving them in sustainable practices, including textile production. Barman has received numerous awards, including the Nari Shakti Puraskar and Whitley Award, and continues to inspire global conservation efforts.  

US President Donald Trump recently criticized the $21 million USAID fund allocated to India for 'voter turnout,' calling it a "kickback scheme" during a meeting with the Republican Governors Association. Trump questioned why taxpayer money was spent on India's election turnout, suggesting that the funds were misused. His remarks have sparked a political firestorm in India, with BJP officials accusing the money of supporting "deep-state assets," while Congress questioned the Modi government's handling of foreign aid. This controversy has reignited tensions between the BJP and Congress.  

      Russian forces reclaimed over 800 sq km in Ukraine’s Kursk region, while Moscow launched an overnight drone attack, with 80 drones shot down and 78 lost. Russia also struck Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in Odesa for a second time, leaving parts without power.Russia's central bank denied involvement in US sanction discussions. The Kremlin criticized UK peacekeeping plans, labeling them a threat. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov condemned Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's remarks about President Trump and urged Ukraine to reconsider its stance on rare earth mineral deals with the US.    

  On February 20, 2025, the U.S. Senate narrowly confirmed Kash Patel as the ninth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) with a 51-49 vote. Patel, a long-time ally of President Donald Trump, is expected to implement significant reforms within the FBI, aiming to reduce political biases and restore public trust. During his confirmation hearing, Patel addressed concerns about his previous statements on the January 6 Capitol riot, emphasizing his commitment to reforming the bureau rather than dismantling it. His appointment has sparked debate, with critics questioning his qualifications and potential political motivations.  

US President Donald Trump asserted that the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the UAE—"broke up" after he threatened to impose 150% tariffs on their goods. Trump claimed that the BRICS countries sought to undermine the US dollar by creating a new currency, prompting him to warn of severe tariffs. He emphasized that he hasn't heard from the BRICS bloc since issuing this threat in February 2023. Trump's earlier warnings in January also included imposing tariffs if BRICS attempted to replace the dollar.