Super Typhoon Ragasa Leaves Trail of Destruction Across Asia
Super Typhoon Ragasa, identified as the most powerful tropical cyclone of 2025, has caused widespread devastation across the Philippines, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Southern China. The typhoon made landfall in China's Guangdong province after battering other regions, leading to significant casualties and mass evacuations. In Taiwan, at least 17 people died due to floods triggered by the storm, and 124 are reported missing after a barrier lake overflowed in Hualien County. The typhoon also claimed at least 10 lives in the northern Philippines. Hong Kong experienced fierce winds and intense rainfall, bringing the city to a standstill and causing injuries. Nearly 1.9 million people were evacuated in Guangdong province as a precautionary measure.
US Imposes Steep H-1B Visa Fee Hike
The Trump administration has introduced a new, substantial annual fee of $100,000 for new H-1B visa applications, effective September 21, 2025. This move significantly increases the cost for companies hiring highly educated foreign professionals, particularly impacting the technology sector and skilled workers, with Indian citizens constituting over 70% of H-1B visa holders. The fee, previously ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, is intended to encourage US companies to prioritize American workers. The White House clarified that this fee applies only to new applicants and not to existing visa holders or renewals. India's Ministry of External Affairs expressed concerns about potential "humanitarian consequences" due to family disruptions.
Sahel Nations Withdraw from International Criminal Court
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have jointly announced their immediate withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC). The three West African nations, currently under military rule, cited the ICC as an "instrument of neo-colonial repression" and accused it of selective justice. Their joint statement highlighted a desire for greater sovereignty and the development of indigenous mechanisms for justice. This decision follows their earlier withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and a shift towards closer ties with Russia. The withdrawal process from the ICC typically takes at least a year to complete.
Iran Rebuilding Missile Production Sites Amidst Regional Tensions
Satellite imagery indicates that Iran has commenced rebuilding missile-production sites that were previously targeted by Israel during a 12-day conflict in June. While reconstruction is underway at sites like Parchin and Shahroud, a crucial component—large planetary mixers essential for producing solid fuel—is reportedly still missing. Reconstituting its missile program is a priority for Tehran, which views it as a vital military deterrent. Experts suggest Iran may seek to acquire these mixers from countries like China.
Israel and Syria Engage in Security Talks
Negotiations are reportedly being held between Israel and Syria for a security pact, with Israel's Prime Minister's office stating that the conclusions are contingent on ensuring Israel's interests. Key demands include the demilitarization of southwestern Syria and safeguarding the well-being and security of the Druze population in Syria. These talks are reportedly being accelerated under US pressure, with Syria hoping to reverse Israel's recent land seizures, though a full peace treaty is not imminent.
India-Russia S-400 Missile Deal Nears Completion
Russia is on track to complete the delivery of five S-400 Triumf air defense systems to India by 2026, under a $5.43 billion deal signed in 2018. Four systems have already been delivered, with the fifth and final unit expected next year. This completion underscores the enduring defense partnership between India and Russia, despite previous warnings from the US about potential sanctions under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). India's strategic autonomy in defense procurement is a key factor in this ongoing cooperation.
India Hosts World Food India 2025
India is hosting the fourth edition of World Food India (WFI) 2025 from September 25-28 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The event, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to position India as a "Global Food Hub" and boost investments in the food processing sector. It features participation from over 90 countries and 2,000 exhibitors, fostering international collaboration and partnerships across the entire food value chain. New Zealand and Saudi Arabia are partner countries, while Japan, UAE, Vietnam, and Russia are focus countries.