While global markets are reacting to the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran, a significant development in Pakistan’s political landscape has emerged. Seven Rajya Sabha MPs from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), shifting the balance of power in the Upper House. This move has increased the BJP-led NDA’s strength to 148 MPs, while reducing the AAP’s to just three. The merger was officially accepted by the Rajya Sabha Chairman, despite a petition from an AAP MP seeking the disqualification of the MPs under anti-defection laws.
In other news, Iran has proposed a three-stage plan to the U.S. for ending the ongoing conflict, which includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz without addressing its nuclear program. This proposal was reportedly passed on to the U.S. by Pakistan. However, U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated a preference for direct communication, stating that Iran can “call us” for negotiations. The stalled peace talks have contributed to a rise in global oil prices, with Brent crude futures and WTI seeing significant gains.
Meanwhile, in Pakistan, gold prices have seen another increase, with the price per tola rising by Rs800. This fluctuation is attributed to changes in global rates and currency pressure, with demand remaining steady but prices heavily influenced by international economic conditions and geopolitical uncertainty.
On a domestic front in India, a heatwave alert has been issued for northwest and central India by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). In separate incidents, two teachers in Odisha have reportedly died due to heatstroke while engaged in Census work.
Internationally, a strong earthquake of magnitude 6.2 struck parts of northern Japan. In the United States, the suspect in the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner shooting has been identified, and authorities believe the attack was politically motivated.
Additionally, in sports news, the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is gearing up for its playoffs, with tickets for the final going on sale.
