US Justice Department drops bid to force California to set aside disputed ballots

Ousted Paraguayan President Santiago Pena placed under house arrest after bank collapse; Pedro Alliana sworn in as sudden successor

Santiago Pena, the ousted President of Paraguay, was placed under house arrest on charges of misconduct. His removal follows the collapse of Ueno Bank, affecting nearly half of Paraguay's population. Vice President Pedro Alliana has assumed presidency amidst public outcry for accountability. Regulators seized Ueno Bank, locking depositors out of their accounts and triggering a political crisis. Lawmakers allege Pena abused his political influence regarding Ueno's operations and regulatory oversight.

Iran reviewing proposals on Tehran's nuclear programme, officials say

Iran is reviewing proposals made by Qatar that aim to address its nuclear program and tensions with the US. As part of these discussions, Iran is demanding certain core conditions be met by the US. The White House acknowledged ongoing discussions but did not comment on the proposed measures. Regional leaders have engaged in diplomatic talks to ease tensions, with emphasis on political solutions.

Trump replaces Susie Wiles with Stephen Miller as White House chief of staff after GOP's midterm defeat

Stephen Miller has been appointed as White House chief of staff following Susie Wiles' resignation after the midterm elections. Wiles served admirably and will remain involved with Trump's political organization despite her departure. Miller, a key figure behind Trump's strict immigration policies, now faces increased scrutiny from a Democratic Congress. Wiles had a notable tenure, characterized by disciplined campaign leadership despite personal health challenges.

Trump vows new US air show will be biggest in the world

CapeWeek is set to take place at Kennedy Space Center in Florida and is designed to promote American aerospace leadership. The event aims to surpass major air shows hosted internationally while attracting business from around the world. Trump emphasized this initiative after encouraging space companies to forgo an upcoming summit in Paris. This new conference will add to an existing array of global aviation events.

NSE urges investors to buy gold-backed EGRs this Dhanteras, sees $5–6 billion import savings

The exchange is seeking to bring domestically recycled gold and household holdings into the formal financial system through electronic receipts

DVAC books Durai Murugan in alleged ₹1,427-crore Tamil Nadu sand mining scam

The investigation follows complaints alleging tender violations, excess quarrying and fabricated transport permits across 28 river sand quarries in Tamil Nadu.

Meghan Markle's estranged father arrested and charged with possessing child sexual abuse materials

Thomas Markle Sr. was arrested in Florida on charges related to child sexual abuse material found in California. Authorities reported that around 78 items containing suspected abuse images were discovered. His son, Thomas Markle Jr., alerted police after discovering such images at their father's home in the Philippines. Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, expressed distress over the allegations and has distanced herself from her father.

US offers $20 mn reward for info on 'Iran's nuclear program': CENTCOM

Washington has announced a reward of up to $20 million for information regarding Iran's nuclear program and associated personnel. President Trump emphasized that Iran's military strength has been significantly weakened during the ongoing conflict. Additionally, he stated that Iran is now eager to negotiate a peace deal to end hostilities. Diplomatic efforts to prevent further fighting are being pursued by mediators.

Morning Brief Podcast: Trump's Midterm Setback and India's Washington Dilemma

Two missiles strike Iran's Qeshm Island, Tasnim news agency says

Two missiles hit Qeshm Island in southern Iran, with local witnesses confirming the incidents. The Iranian news agency Tasnim reported on the event after aircraft sounds were heard. Qatar's International Media Office denied claims about unsuccessful US-Iran negotiations, stating that these reports were false and misleading. Efforts for mediating peace continue between the two nations, coordinated by Qatar.

US Treasury sanctions Canadian money services firms over Iran-related transactions

US Treasury imposed financial sanctions on eight Canadian money services firms involved with sanctioned Iranian entities. The sanctions block access to dollar-based financial systems and prohibit transactions with US persons. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent stated that Canada cannot provide safe havens for illicit financial facilitators. Additionally, MEXC Global, a virtual currency exchanger, was cut off from the US financial system.