Pakistan Army Rescues 300 Hostages From Hijacked Train, 33 Militants Killed

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:12pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International

Pakistan’s army freed over 300 hostages from a passenger train hijacked by Baloch militants in Balochistan. The military said 33 militants were killed in the operation. Before the rescue, the militants killed 21 civilians and four soldiers. The attackers, linked to the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), had demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners. They blew up tracks and fired at the train near a mountain tunnel. Some passengers escaped and walked for hours to safety. The hijacking lasted over 30 hours. The military is still searching the area and vowed to bring all attackers to justice.

Read More at BBC

Canada Hits Back at US Tariffs, Calls Move "Nonsense," Matches US Levies Dollar for Dollar

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:07pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International

Canada has announced new 25% tariffs on US steel, aluminium, and consumer goods worth C$30 billion. This comes after Donald Trump doubled tariffs on Canadian imports. Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc said Canada will not stay silent while its industries are unfairly targeted. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly called the US tariffs “unjustified” and said she would raise the issue at a G7 meeting. Trump, upset over Ontario’s electricity surcharge, also threatened to increase car import tariffs, which could harm Canada’s auto industry. The new Canadian tariffs will take effect from Thursday, matching the US measures “dollar for dollar.”

Read More at Hindustan Times

Baloch Insurgents Execute 50 Hostages, Issue 20-Hour Ultimatum to Pakistan

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 04:27pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for hijacking the Jaffar Express in Balochistan, Pakistan, taking over 200 passengers hostage. In retaliation for a Pakistani military offensive, the BLA announced the execution of 50 hostages and issued a 20-hour ultimatum for the government to cease military operations and release Baloch prisoners. Pakistani security forces have reportedly rescued 190 passengers, with ongoing operations resulting in significant casualties among militants. The BLA has threatened further executions if their demands are not met within the stipulated timeframe.

Read More at India Today

'Blood Rain' Turns Iran’s Hormuz Island Beach Red, Stuns Tourists

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 02:48pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International

Tourists on Iran’s Hormuz Island witnessed a rare phenomenon as heavy rain turned the Silver and Red Beach blood red. The spectacle, caused by the island’s iron oxide-rich volcanic soil mixing with seawater, created vivid red waves. Footage shared on Instagram amassed 29 million likes, with users calling it "incredibly beautiful." The soil, known locally as "Golgohar," is used in industries, cosmetics, and even food. The Iran Tourism and Touring Organisation highlights its significance in local culture. Scientists say such events are natural but rare, attracting curious visitors worldwide. [Video Courtesy:X/MailOnline]

Read More at Express

ADHD Prescriptions in England Surge 18% Annually Since Pandemic

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 02:41pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International

A study published in BMJ Mental Health reveals ADHD prescriptions in England have risen 18% yearly since 2020, increasing from 25 per 1,000 people to 41.55 in 2023/24. London saw the highest annual rise at 28%. Researchers attribute the surge to greater awareness via social media and increased psychological stress. Methylphenidate remains the most prescribed drug, while lisdexamfetamine saw a 55% annual increase. Experts urge policymakers to address regional and socioeconomic disparities in ADHD care access. The findings highlight growing demand amid long referral wait times.

Read More at The Guardian

British Tourist Arrested in Thailand for Alleged 38kg Cannabis Smuggling

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 01:58pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International

British tourist Daniel-James Hallett, 38, was arrested in Thailand for allegedly attempting to smuggle 38kg of cannabis onto a London-bound flight. Thai officials discovered 35 vacuum-sealed bags in his luggage at Krabi International Airport. Hallett, a Hull-based tanker driver, faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted under Thailand’s strict drug laws. Superintendent Apichat Jinaphen warned, "Importing or exporting cannabis without permission is illegal." Authorities urge tourists to follow regulations after multiple similar cases involving British nationals. Hallett remains in custody as court proceedings continue.

Read More at The Standard

Pakistan Train Hijack Reignites Baloch Independence Struggle: Jinnah’s 1948 Betrayal and the Ongoing Conflict

Brief by Shorts91NewsDesk / 01:28pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International

The recent train hijacking in Pakistan has reignited discussions about the long-standing Baloch independence movement, which dates back to Jinnah’s alleged betrayal of Baloch leaders in 1948. The article traces the historical context, highlighting how Kalat, a princely state, was forcibly annexed into Pakistan, fueling decades of resistance and insurgency in Balochistan. The piece also draws parallels with Bangladesh’s 1971 liberation, suggesting Pakistan’s failure to address ethnic grievances. The hijacking is seen as a symbol of Baloch unrest, emphasizing the region’s demand for autonomy and justice amidst ongoing military crackdowns and human rights concerns.

Read More at India Today

Pakistan Train Hijack: 155 Rescued, Hostage Crisis Continues In Balochistan

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 01:17pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International

A deadly train hijack in Pakistan's Balochistan province has left passengers in terror as militants attacked the Jaffar Express. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) seized hostages, injuring the train driver. Security forces rescued 155 passengers while 27 militants were reportedly killed. Helicopters and special forces continue efforts to free remaining captives. Survivors described "doomsday scenes" as they fled, walking for hours to safety. The UN and human rights groups condemned the attack, urging urgent action. Reports suggest some militants escaped with hostages into nearby mountains. The crisis remains unresolved.

Read More at BBC

Over 500 Indians Forced Into Cybercrime In Myanmar, Thailand Rescued, Repatriated

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 12:21pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International

India has repatriated over 500 nationals trapped in Myanmar and Thailand after being lured by fake job offers, the External Affairs Ministry said. Victims, promised high-paying IT jobs, were forced into cybercrime operations. Many endured harsh conditions under criminal syndicates before authorities intervened. Indian officials collaborated with local governments for their safe return. The government has issued fresh advisories warning against fraudulent job schemes targeting Indian youth. Efforts continue to track more victims and prevent human trafficking. Families of those affected have urged stronger measures to stop such organized scams.

Read More at India Today

Donald Trump Buys Red Tesla Model S with Elon Musk, Plans to Keep it at the White House

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 11:43am on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International

U.S. President Donald Trump, alongside Tesla CEO Elon Musk, purchased a red Tesla Model S, signaling his support for the electric vehicle maker amidst challenges. During the visit, Trump joked that Musk would give him a discount on the car. Despite his previous skepticism about electric vehicles, Trump praised Tesla for its innovation. The vehicle is planned for use by White House staff. This move follows Tesla's struggles, including a significant drop in stock prices and declining sales, while Trump's backing of Musk may help boost the company's image.  

Read More at Republic world

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