Taiwan reports 121 new COVID-19 cases

He highlighted India's role as a "first responder" for the Maldives, emphasising that India's support during critical periods has been fundamental to the stability and security of the island nation.

Taiwanese forces said three out of five sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ), and added that they monitored the situation and responded.

The European Union on Wednesday moved to intensify pressure on Tehran amid the conflict in West Asia by approving new sanctions targeting 19 Iranian regime officials and entities accused of serious human rights violations.

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense detected the presence of six Chinese naval vessels operating around their territorial waters as of 6am (local time) on Wednesday. Taiwanese forces said they monitored the situation and responded.

China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun has made a comment on the West Asia conflict, wherein he has expressed China's willingness to remain in touch with all the parties involved in the conflict to de-escalate the issue, reported China Daily.

A curfew imposed in the Zehri area of Balochistan's Khuzdar district entered its fourth consecutive day, severely disrupting daily life, mobility and economic activity in the region. Residents said the continued restrictions have forced markets, transport services and commercial centres to remain closed, effectively paralysing normal activity.

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense detected the presence of six Chinese naval vessels operating around its territorial waters as of 6am (local time) on Tuesday.

China has announced a 7 per cent increase in its 2026 defence budget to roughly USD 277 billion. Amidst regional conflicts and military purges, Beijing is prioritising modernisation and "sovereign rights." While feeling vulnerable due to energy dependencies, China is choosing diplomatic engagement over direct military involvement in current global wars.

Although restrictions have now been partially eased, the situation in the region remains tense. Daily wage labourers have been among the worst affected, as many rely on day-to-day earnings to support their families. During the strict curfew, residents expressed frustration over the closure of markets and the difficulty in accessing essential supplies.

An Anti-Terrorism Court in Quetta has declared 12 Baloch activists, including Sabiha Baloch, as proclaimed offenders. Charged under strict anti-terror laws, activists argue these legal actions are a systemic attempt by Pakistan to intimidate and silence voices protesting human rights violations and enforced disappearances in Balochistan.