Global Focus Remains on Gaza Amidst Escalating Humanitarian Crisis

The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip continues to deteriorate, with reports confirming famine in Gaza City. Seven people have reportedly died from malnutrition in the past 24 hours, attributed to the Israeli blockade. Israeli strikes on a Gaza hospital have drawn widespread condemnation, with Israel claiming the attacks targeted a Hamas camera. Qatar has indicated that Israel appears "unwilling to reach an agreement" on a ceasefire, further dampening hopes for an immediate resolution.

SpaceX Achieves Successful Starship Launch

In a significant development for space exploration, SpaceX successfully launched its Starship megarocket. This achievement follows a series of prior setbacks, marking a crucial step forward for the ambitious program.

Diplomatic Tensions and Trade Discussions Shape International Relations

A diplomatic row has erupted between Australia and Iran, with Australia accusing Iran of orchestrating anti-Semitic arson attacks and subsequently expelling its ambassador. On the economic front, the United States has issued a draft notice to implement 50% tariffs on Indian products, effective August 27. This comes as 25 countries have reportedly suspended postal services to the U.S. due to existing Trump tariffs. Conversely, Canada is set to drop counter-tariffs on certain U.S. goods following discussions.

Upcoming Summits and Key International Engagements

Looking ahead, major international meetings are on the agenda. Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to host Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit next week. Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to chair a "large meeting" on post-war Gaza and has expressed a desire to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this year.

India's Domestic and International Initiatives

Domestically, India's Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted its first Integrated Air Drop Test for the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. The Indian Navy also commissioned two advanced Project 17A stealth frigates, Udaygiri and Himgiri. In international cooperation, India and the World Food Programme (WFP) have formalized a partnership to combat global hunger, with India offering to supply fortified rice to vulnerable populations. Nepal has officially joined the India-led International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), further strengthening conservation efforts for seven species of big cats.