The Indian government has released $2.5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) as part of its annual contribution of $5 million for 2024-25. This funding supports UNRWA's core programs, including education, healthcare, and relief services for Palestinian refugees. India has provided $35 million to UNRWA since 2023-24. The donation comes as UNRWA faces challenges in maintaining its operations amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. India's contribution aims to support the welfare of Palestinian refugees and reaffirms its commitment to their well-being.

The US has urged India to use its close relationship with Russia to persuade President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller made the request, noting India's longstanding ties with Russia. The US encourages India to promote a peaceful resolution, respecting Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty. This appeal comes as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues, with the international community seeking a diplomatic solution. The US seeks India's support in promoting a peaceful outcome, leveraging their unique relationship with Russia.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau called singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh "a guy from Punjab," causing a controversy. Many felt he should have called Dosanjh an Indian artist. BJP's Manjinder Singh Sirsa accused Trudeau of "mischief." Trudeau met Dosanjh at his Toronto show and praised him on social media. Critics say Trudeau's words fuel separatist sentiments amid strained India-Canada relations. Dosanjh clarified that being Punjabi means being Indian, highlighting his roots and music career tied to India. Trudeau’s remarks overshadowed his praise for Dosanjh’s success.

The UK Home Office has announced the final ballot for the India Young Professional Scheme 2024. This scheme allows young Indian nationals to live, work, and study in the UK for up to 24 months. The ballot opens on July 16 and closes on July 18, 2024. Applicants must be 18-30 years old, have a bachelor’s degree, savings of £2,530, and no dependent children. The scheme offers 3,000 places for 2024, with most already filled in February. Entry to the ballot is free, but successful applicants must pay £298 for the visa.

Police in northern Italy have rescued 33 Indian farm workers from slave-like conditions. Lured by promises of good jobs, they worked over 10 hours a day for low wages, which went to pay off debts. Their passports were taken, and they lived in poor conditions. Two Indian men, who recruited them, were arrested with about $545,300. The rescued workers, who had paid large sums for work permits, are now getting help from social services. This case highlights the ongoing issue of worker exploitation in Italy's agricultural sector.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke at the SCO summit in Astana, Kazakhstan. He took a veiled jab at Pakistan, stressing the need to identify and punish those involved in terrorism. "Combating terrorism requires a very comprehensive approach - not just the perpetrators of heinous acts of terrorism, but the facilitators, financiers, and sponsors of terrorism - they all need to be identified and punished," Jaishankar said. He highlighted the ongoing threat from UN-designated terror groups still active in the region. Jaishankar believes the SCO's Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) can propose effective measures against terrorism.

Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Moscow, India is seeking to increase exports to Russia by promoting rupee-rouble trade and urging Moscow to lift non-tariff barriers. Despite increased trade between the two nations since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Indian exports have seen minimal growth. Indian trade secretary Sunil Barthwal highlighted efforts to improve trade relationships and boost exports of electronics, engineering goods, and marine products. Modi's visit also included discussions on enhancing cooperation in areas like nuclear energy and medicine, with a goal of reaching $100 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.

Two Indian nationals arrested in Italy for alleged human trafficking and labor exploitation. The suspects, owners of two agricultural companies, enslaved 33 Indian farm workers in Verona province. Assets worth €475,000 seized. Investigation ongoing for crimes including enslavement, labor exploitation, and tax evasion. This comes weeks after a Sikh farm worker Satnam Singh's tragic death in Italy. Authorities crack down on modern-day slavery and labor abuse.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep concern over the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump, emphasizing that violence has no place in politics or democracies. PM Modi, known for his friendly relations with Trump, wished him a speedy recovery and extended solidarity to the American people affected by the incident. The attack occurred during Trump's rally in Pennsylvania, resulting in one casualty and two injuries. Trump, though injured, showed resilience by gesturing to supporters before being swiftly escorted to safety by Secret Service agents. Authorities are investigating the shooter's identity and motives.

Italian authorities have busted a slavery ring, rescuing 33 Indian agricultural workers from exploitative conditions in Verona. The workers were forced into bondage, working long hours for minimal pay, with their wages withheld until they repaid a hefty debt. Two suspects, also of Indian origin, have been arrested and €500,000 seized. The victims were lured to Italy with false promises of a better life. This shocking case exposes the dark reality of modern-day slavery in Italy's agricultural sector. The rescued workers will receive support, protection, and legal residency documents.