News Digest for 12 May, 2025
PM Modi Declares Operation Sindoor India's New Anti-Terror Policy, Rules Out Talks Barring PoK & Terror
In his first address since Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted India will not tolerate 'nuclear blackmail' from Pakistan. He stated the operation, launched after the Pahalgam attack, is now India's policy against terrorism and has only been kept in abeyance, contingent on Pakistan's future behaviour. Modi emphasized that future talks with Pakistan would solely focus on terrorism and the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), ruling out discussions on other Jammu and Kashmir issues.
India-Pakistan Tensions Ease as Ceasefire Holds; Airports Reopen, Border Life Normalizes
Following an understanding reached May 10, India and Pakistan have maintained a ceasefire, halting military actions. The Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) held hotline talks to discuss restoring calm. Consequently, 32 Indian airports shut during the hostilities have reopened for civilian flights, with airlines resuming operations. Life in border villages, where over two lakh residents were evacuated, is returning to normal, although authorities advise caution due to potential unexploded ordnance.
Operation Sindoor Eliminated Over 100 Terrorists, Inflicted Heavy Losses on Pak Military: India
Indian military officials revealed details of Operation Sindoor, stating over 100 terrorists, including high-value targets like Yusuf Azhar and Abdul Malik Rauf, were killed in precision strikes on May 7 against nine terror facilities in Pakistan and PoK. India also claimed significant losses were inflicted on the Pakistani military, including 35-40 personnel killed, fighter jets downed, and key installations damaged. Satellite images reportedly show destroyed terror camps. India asserted all its military systems remain operational.
US and China Agree to Slash Tariffs in 90-Day Trade Truce
The United States and China have reached a breakthrough agreement in Geneva to temporarily slash reciprocal tariffs, aiming to ease global trade tensions. According to a joint statement, the move initiates a 90-day trade truce, providing a window for the world's two largest economies to negotiate and resolve their ongoing trade disputes. This development has been welcomed as a positive step towards de-escalating economic friction and reducing market fears globally.
Virat Kohli Announces Shock Retirement From Test Cricket
Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket, concluding a celebrated 14-year career in the longest format. Kohli, who scored 9,230 runs in 123 Test matches at an average of 46.85, shared an emotional post confirming his decision. The announcement, made ahead of the upcoming WTC cycle and England series, drew widespread reactions and tributes from the global cricket community and fans.