Skip to main content

Featured

U.S. Seizure of Russian-Flagged Tanker Heightens Global Tensions

The ship, currently between Iceland and the British Isles, has been accused of breaking US sanctions and shipping Iranian oil. It has historically transported Venezuelan crude oil. The United States has seized a Russian‑flagged oil tanker linked to Venezuela after a prolonged pursuit across the Atlantic, marking one of the most assertive enforcement actions under Washington’s sanctions program. The vessel, previously known as Bella‑1 and later renamed Marinera , was intercepted after evading an earlier boarding attempt near Venezuelan waters. U.S. military aircraft and naval units tracked the ship for weeks as it traveled across the Atlantic, at times shadowed by Russian naval vessels. Officials say the tanker was part of a network used to transport sanctioned Venezuelan and Russian oil. Its capture underscores Washington’s efforts to disrupt what it describes as illicit energy shipments that help sustain both governments. The operation comes at a delicate geopolitical moment, wit...

article

Smog Crisis in India: Taj Mahal Shrouded, Flights Delayed





A thick blanket of toxic smog has enveloped northern India, severely impacting visibility and air quality. The iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, a symbol of love and architectural marvel, has been obscured by the dense haze, leaving visitors disappointed. The Golden Temple in Amritsar, another significant landmark, has also been affected.

The smog, caused by a combination of high pollution levels, humidity, and stagnant winds, has led to significant disruptions in daily life. Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) has been recorded in the ‘severe’ category, with visibility dropping to just 300 meters at the city’s international airport. This has resulted in numerous flight delays, with 88% of departures and 54% of arrivals affected.

Health concerns are rising as hospitals report an increase in patients, particularly children, suffering from respiratory issues such as allergies, coughs, and asthma attacks. The situation is exacerbated by the illegal burning of crop residues in the farming states of Punjab and Haryana, contributing to the already hazardous air quality.

Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors and use air purifiers if possible. The smog is expected to persist, with slight improvements anticipated in the coming days as weather conditions change.


Comments