US President Donald Trump issued a "last warning" to Hamas, demanding the release of all hostages in Gaza. "If you do not comply, there will be hell to pay later," he declared. His statement follows reports that US envoy Adam Boehler held unprecedented direct talks with Hamas in Doha regarding the hostages. Trump also pledged full support to Israel, stating, "Not a single Hamas member will be safe." The White House confirmed that the discussions aimed at securing American hostages and a broader ceasefire agreement. Ceasefire talks in Cairo have yet to yield an agreement.

In a congressional speech, Donald Trump mocked Lesotho, calling it a country “nobody has ever heard of,” while criticizing a supposed $8 million U.S. aid allocation for LGBTQI+ rights. Lesotho’s Foreign Minister condemned the remarks and planned to send a protest letter. The People’s Matrix, a local LGBTQI+ organization, denied receiving U.S. grants. Official records show U.S. aid to Lesotho primarily funds HIV/AIDS programs, not LGBTQI+ initiatives. Lesotho, with one of the highest HIV rates globally, has received over $630 million from the U.S. since 2006 for health programs.

On March 4, 2025, President Donald Trump delivered a joint address to Congress, highlighting his administration's recent policies and achievements. The speech elicited sharply contrasting reactions from congressional leaders. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican, praised the address, stating it went "overwhelmingly well" and resonated with American values. In contrast, Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized the speech as "partisan and divisive," expressing concerns over its tone and content. The address was also marked by notable Democratic protests, including walkouts and vocal objections, underscoring the deep partisan divide within Congress. 

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.  

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.

Chinese companies are shifting factories to Cambodia to escape U.S. tariffs. A "Special Economic Zone" south of Phnom Penh is rapidly expanding, with businesses moving in to avoid extra costs on goods made in China.   Experts say these companies are following trade rules, but Cambodia could face risks if U.S. policies change. Factory owner Mr. Huang, who supplies Walmart and Costco, fears Cambodia might be next in Trump's tariff plans. With new tariffs set to take effect, more Chinese firms are rushing to relocate, believing Southeast Asia is the future for manufacturing.