Category: Defense

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza is starting on Sunday morning, with a plan to free hostages later that day. This ceasefire could help end a 15-month war that has changed the Middle East.

Israeli troops are pulling back from certain areas in Gaza, according to reports. The ceasefire deal was reached after many discussions led by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, just before President-elect Donald Trump takes office.

The ceasefire starts at 0630 GMT on Sunday and will last for six weeks. During this time, 33 out of 98 hostages—including women, children, and elderly people—will be freed in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. This includes prisoners who are part of groups that have attacked Israelis, along with many others from Gaza held since the war began.

Three female hostages are expected to be released on Sunday afternoon through the Red Cross, swapping for 30 prisoners each. After this day, more hostages will be released weekly. During the first part of the ceasefire, the Israeli army will reduce its presence in Gaza, and some people displaced from northern Gaza can return home.

Even though a ceasefire aims to end the war, what happens next is uncertain. Gaza needs a lot of money and time to rebuild after the fighting. Hamas, which has ruled Gaza for almost 20 years, has lost leaders and fighters but still remains strong. Israel insists it will not let Hamas regain power and has taken steps to create safe zones for its troops.

In Israel, the freeing of hostages might ease some anger towards Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over earlier security failures. However, pressure from hardline supporters in his government could lead to renewed conflict if the war does not continue. If fighting resumes, a lot of hostages might be left behind in Gaza.

The war has also affected the wider Middle East, leading to conflict with Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed group, and direct clashes with Iran itself. After a year, things have changed dramatically. Iran’s influence in the region has weakened, and vital allies like Syria’s Assad regime are no longer a threat. However, Israel faces global criticism for the destruction in Gaza. Netanyahu is dealing with a warrant for war crimes and accusations of genocide, which Israel denies, calling them politically motivated.

This conflict began after a deadly attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, killing over 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages. Israel’s campaign in Gaza has claimed nearly 47,000 Palestinian lives, according to local health officials, most of whom were civilians, while Israel states that many casualties were fighters.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have released photos of four active terrorists in Kishtwar district and are offering a reward of Rs 5 lakh for good information about them. The terrorists are named Saifullah, Farman, Adil, and a fourth person believed to be named Basha. The police shared these pictures on a poster in both Urdu and English.

The police are asking everyone in the community to help. If you know anything about these men, please contact them. Your identity will stay secret if you provide information. Recently, Kishtwar and nearby areas faced several attacks due to efforts by Pakistan-based terrorist groups to spread violence in peaceful regions of Jammu.

On Friday, Israel’s security Cabinet met to talk about a ceasefire agreement after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said they had reached a deal. This deal would pause the war with Hamas in Gaza, which has been going on for 15 months, and set up the release of hostages held by militants. The agreement, announced by Qatar and the U.S. on Wednesday, faced delays because Netanyahu mentioned some last-minute issues he blamed on Hamas.

Hamas claimed they wanted to stick to the deal, while families of hostages and residents of Gaza were anxiously waiting to see if it would happen. If the Cabinet agrees, the deal would go to the whole government for final approval, which is expected. However, Netanyahu’s far-right coalition partners are strongly against the ceasefire, possibly putting his government at risk.

The war started when Hamas launched a major attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, killing about 1,200 people and capturing around 250 more. In response, Israel launched a major attack that has resulted in over 46,000 deaths in Gaza, where many victims are reported to be women and children. This ongoing war is causing chaos across the Middle East and has led to protests around the world.

Just this past Thursday, Israeli airstrikes killed at least 72 people in Gaza. In past ceasefires, both sides have intensified military actions just before an agreement to show strength.

Netanyahu has told a special team to prepare for the return of hostages, and families have been informed of the deal. If all goes well, the ceasefire and the first releases of hostages could begin as early as Sunday. The agreement involves releasing 33 hostages over six weeks in exchange for hundreds of Palestinians held in Israeli jails. During this time, Israeli forces will pull back, some Palestinians can return home, and humanitarian aid will increase.

However, Hamas says they won’t release the other hostages, especially male soldiers, unless there is a lasting ceasefire and a total Israeli withdrawal. Israel has promised to keep fighting until Hamas is dismantled. Discussions continue about who will run Gaza postwar and who will manage rebuilding efforts.

There were last-minute problems regarding which Palestinian prisoners would be freed first, but these issues have been resolved. Also, an Israeli team visited Cairo on Friday to discuss reopening a vital border crossing between Gaza and Egypt.

Inside Israel, Itamar Ben-Gvir, a hard-line security minister, has threatened to leave the government if the ceasefire is approved. He posted on social media, saying if the deal goes through, he would exit the government despite feeling sad about it. Although his resignation wouldn’t lead to an immediate government collapse, it could weaken Netanyahu’s coalition during a crucial time.

Washington, DC – On January 16, 2023, the fighting between Ukraine and Russia has increased with both sides launching major drone and missile attacks. This comes as US President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20 approaches. Trump has promised to end the conflict quickly, but he hasn’t shared many details about how he plans to do this.

Recently, Ukraine carried out its biggest attack yet on Russia, using drones and missiles, including six US-made ATACMS long-range missiles. This attack happened overnight, as reported by Ukrainian and Russian officials. Back in November, outgoing US President Joe Biden allowed Ukraine to use these powerful missiles, which Russia considers a big step up in the fighting.

Moscow warned that if Ukraine used ATACMS, it would respond with its own powerful missile named Oreshnik. This missile has only been launched once before, in November 2022.

The fighting escalated when Ukraine targeted Russian military bases and oil facilities. The Ukrainian army pledged to continue its attacks until Russia stops its aggression.

In response, Russia launched a massive attack on Ukrainian energy facilities, especially as winter has made energy supply crucial. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russia fired over 40 missiles at Ukraine. Thankfully, Ukrainian forces managed to destroy about 30 of them, along with over 70 drones.

Zelensky stated, “Another massive Russian attack is happening. The focus remains on our energy sector. This is vital for our people’s normal life.” Because of the damage, Ukraine’s state energy company, Ukrenergo, had to temporarily turn off power to prevent the energy system from failing. However, power was restored by 9 am local time on Wednesday.

In just a few days, Donald Trump will be sworn in as the 47th president of the United States at the US Capitol.

Recently, the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) raised concerns about the Border Security Force (BSF) trying to build fences in some areas along the India-Bangladesh border. To discuss important matters and strengthen cooperation, a meeting was held between the two forces at Benapole, Bangladesh.

During this meeting, leaders from both sides talked about serious topics, including the building of a Single Row Fence (SRF), cross-border crimes like human trafficking and cattle smuggling, and development projects for border communities. The Indian team was led by Tarni Kumar, Deputy Inspector General of BSF Kolkata, and the BGB team was led by Colonel Mehedi Hasan Chowdhury, the Sector Commander of BGB Khulna. Other senior officers from both forces also joined the discussions.

They focused on how to reduce issues like human trafficking and illegal immigration, which have recently caused tension between India and Bangladesh. The SRF project is meant to improve border security, but Bangladesh is worried it could hurt local residents and their traditional ways of life.

These high-level meetings show the strong relationship between India and Bangladesh. By talking openly, both sides are committed to keeping their border safe while dealing with common problems. The BSF is dedicated to protecting its borders and fostering good relations with its neighbors.

Tensions have risen at the India-Bangladesh border over the fencing issue, leading to protests in some Bangladeshi border villages. Bangladesh previously expressed worries about not being consulted on the fencing plans, fearing it could disrupt local transit routes and community ties.

In the meeting, both sides also talked about working together on development projects for people living in border areas. This discussion comes at a crucial time when both countries want to maintain friendly relations while facing challenges at the border.

Moreover, India recently called Bangladesh’s acting High Commissioner, Nural Islam, to affirm that it followed all procedures for building the border fence. This was after Bangladesh’s foreign ministry expressed concerns to Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma about BSF activities. Just last week, a meeting was held at the Integrated Check Post (ICP) in Petrapole, West Bengal, to discuss various fencing issues.

On January 15, 2025, the Indian Army held its Army Day parade in Pune, marking a special moment as it’s the first time this event happened in this city. One of the exciting attractions was the robotic mules, known as Quadrupedal Unmanned Ground Vehicles (Q-UGVs). These robots are helping make the army better and safer.

The robotic mules, which are also called Multi-Utility Legged Equipment (MULE), can work in tough conditions. They’re designed to take the load off soldiers, making their jobs easier and reducing danger. During the parade, they were part of a ceremony at the BEG & Centre Parade Ground, led by Lt. Gen. Dhiraj Seth, the head of the Southern Command.

The ARCV MULE, made by AeroArc in New Delhi, can do many things, like keep areas safe, handle risky materials, and gather information. These mules can be controlled by people or move on their own! They are equipped with a computer, battery, sensors, and four legs to walk around.

In June 2024, the Indian Army got 100 of these robotic mules. They can go almost anywhere, including up stairs, on steep slopes, and through messy areas. They can work in extreme weather, from -40°C to +55°C, and are built to be dustproof and waterproof.

These robot mules can carry equipment like night vision cameras and even weapons! They can hold up to 12 kg and they are easy to set up in just 15 minutes.

During the parade, eight groups from different army centers marched, showcasing advanced weapons and combat vehicles. The Army’s motto, “Service Before Self,” honors the commitment of soldiers.

This year, the Indian Army celebrated its 77th Army Day, remembering Field Marshal KM Cariappa, the first Indian Commander-in-Chief, who took charge in 1949. The event not only remembered Cariappa’s bravery but also respected all soldiers who have served the country.

Along with the parade, there was a “Know Your Army Mela,” highlighting all the amazing new technologies. A special Women Agniveer Contingent joined in, showing the army’s diversity and values.

Larsen & Toubro (L&T), a big name in building infrastructure, just launched its second special ship for the Indian Navy. This new ship, called INS Utkarsh, was launched at L&T’s shipyard near Chennai, just three months after the first ship, INS Samarthak. The first ship is getting ready for tests before it joins the Navy.

These special ships, known as multi-purpose vessels (MPVs), can do many important tasks. They help test new weapons and tools, keep watch over the sea, assist during disasters, and help clean up pollution in the ocean. They can also help launch and recover smaller boats and drones.

L&T designed these ships at its own design center in Chennai and built them at the Kattupalli Shipyard. In addition to these ships, L&T is also working on three training ships and six other defense vessels for the Navy through a partnership with the government. They are also fixing another Navy ship, INS Tir, at the Kattupalli yard.

On Monday, South Korea’s spy agency told lawmakers that two North Korean soldiers, captured by Ukrainian forces while fighting with Russian troops, do not want to live in South Korea. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he would give the soldiers back to North Korea if leader Kim Jong Un is willing to trade them for Ukrainian prisoners held in Russia. One of the North Korean soldiers wants to stay in Ukraine, but the other wants to go home.

Zelenskyy mentioned that there could be more North Korean prisoners in the future who might not want to return to their country. In a private meeting, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) shared information about these soldiers and said they would be open to discussing their future if they ask to come to South Korea.

Many North Koreans have come to South Korea to escape tough living conditions. About 34,000 have made the journey since the late 1990s. However, Koo Byoungsam, a spokesperson for South Korea’s government, said they would need to look at laws and talk to other countries before helping these soldiers.

The NIS believes around 300 North Korean soldiers have died, and about 2,700 have been hurt while fighting in Ukraine. This marks North Korea’s first major involvement in war since the Korean War of 1950-53. The agency explained that the North Koreans are having trouble using modern weapons and tactics and often suffer due to poor leadership from Russian commanders.

Some dead soldiers had directions to take their own lives if captured, showing the serious risks they faced. One soldier even tried to explode a grenade when he was about to be captured but was shot first.

Zelenskyy confirmed the capture of these soldiers shortly after Ukraine began new military actions in Kursk. This area is significant as it’s the first part of Russian land to be taken since World War II.

Experts believe North Korean soldiers are struggling in the Kursk area, which is very different from their mountainous homeland. They are also not working alone but under Russian commands, which complicates things for them. Many North Korean troops may not be well-prepared for such an unfamiliar mission.

Overall, there are worries in South Korea that these North Korean soldiers could learn important military skills that could pose a threat to South Korea in the future.

An important army leader, Lt Gen M K Katiyar, spoke on Saturday about how victories in wars are determined by what happens on land. He mentioned the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war as a prime example of this. He emphasized that many disputes, especially with neighboring countries, are about land. Thus, it is crucial for India to be strong on the ground.

Lt Gen Katiyar pointed out that there are currently two major wars in the world, affecting many nations. Despite the efforts of organizations like the UN, these conflicts are still ongoing. This situation encourages countries to resolve their issues through fighting instead of discussions.

He stressed that the Indian Army must always be prepared and vigilant, especially at our borders. Having good training and modern weapons is vital. During a ceremony at Delhi’s Cariappa Parade Ground, he highlighted that the army is ready for battle. He mentioned the pride in the army’s preparations that will be showcased during the January 26 parade.

Moreover, Lt Gen Katiyar noted that technology is changing how wars are fought. We must adapt and think differently to prepare for future conflicts. Warfare will extend beyond traditional battlefields and into areas like cyberspace. However, no matter where a war happens, the outcome will always be decided on land.

He also reminded soldiers that their role is key to winning wars, insisting that there are no second chances in battle—only victory or defeat. The army is modernizing with new equipment, and it’s essential for all soldiers to learn how to use these tools effectively.

He concluded by highlighting the strength of the Indian Army, which lies in its unity and the spirit of putting the nation first. This spirit is what motivates soldiers from diverse backgrounds to serve together.

The U.S. embassy in Copenhagen announced that there are no plans to send more military forces to Greenland. This news comes after President Donald Trump expressed interest in buying the Arctic island. Trump believes that controlling Greenland is very important for the U.S. and hinted that he might take actions like tariffs against Denmark to make this happen.

However, a spokesperson stressed that the U.S. military will not increase its presence there. They stated that the U.S. will continue to collaborate closely with both Denmark and Greenland to make sure proposals fit everyone’s security needs.

Greenland is important for the U.S. military because it helps them keep an eye on missile threats. The fastest route for U.S. military travel between Europe and North America goes through Greenland. The U.S. has a permanent air base called Pituffik in the northwest part of the island.