Digest for 09 October, 2025
Israel and Hamas Agree to First Phase of US-Brokered Peace Plan
Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a US-brokered peace plan, marking a major breakthrough in the two-year war. The agreement, announced by former US President Donald Trump, involves a pause in fighting, the release of all hostages held by Hamas, and the withdrawal of Israeli troops to an agreed-upon line. Hamas stated the deal will also allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza. India welcomed the development, expressing hope it will pave the way for lasting peace.
Manufacturer of Toxic 'Coldrif' Cough Syrup Arrested After 20 Child Deaths
G. Ranganathan, owner of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, has been arrested in Chennai in connection with the deaths of at least 20 children in Madhya Pradesh. The children died after consuming Coldrif cough syrup, which was found to contain dangerously high levels of the toxic industrial chemical diethylene glycol. The arrest was made by a Madhya Pradesh police team, and Ranganathan faces charges including culpable homicide. The syrup has now been banned in at least eight states and union territories.
Afghan Foreign Minister Arrives in Delhi for First High-Level Visit Since Taliban Takeover
Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi arrived in New Delhi for a six-day visit, marking the first high-level trip from Kabul since the Taliban seized power in 2021. Muttaqi, who received a UN Security Council travel ban exemption for the visit, is scheduled to hold talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval. India has not formally recognised the Taliban government but maintains a "technical team" in Kabul, engaging on issues of humanitarian aid and security.
Bangladesh Tribunal Issues Arrest Warrants for Former PM Sheikh Hasina
A tribunal in Bangladesh has issued arrest warrants for ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and several others on charges of crimes against humanity. The cases accuse them of overseeing enforced disappearances, torture, and detention of political opponents in secret facilities during her Awami League government's tenure. Hasina fled to India in August 2024 after resigning amidst mass student-led protests that toppled her regime. The court has set a date of October 22 to produce the accused.
Pakistan Defence Minister Warns 'Chances of War with India are Real'
Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that the "chances of war with India are real," citing recent statements from Indian political and military leaders. In a television interview, he said that while he does not want escalation, the risks are undeniable and claimed Pakistan would achieve a "better result than before" in any conflict. The comments follow a period of heightened rhetoric from both sides regarding cross-border security and counter-terrorism operations, increasing regional tensions.