- Middle East Peace Efforts: Trump traveled to Israel to facilitate the previously agreed-upon cease-fire of 20 hostages from Gaza and 2,000 Palestinian prisoners at the behest of his administration. As aid flows into Gaza, tensions also appear to be easing. 🤝
- Earthquake in the Philippines: Leyte, Philippines, was struck by a magnitude 5.7 earthquake. People are concerned, but no major casualties have been reported at this point. Rescues are still underway. 🌍
- U.S.-India Relations: U.S. Ambassador-designate Sergio Gor met with PM Modi to communicate an easing of U.S.-India trade and visa relations. Both were thrilled that India is a strategically situated regional partner—whether history will support this remains to be seen. 🇺🇸🇮🇳
- Student Visas Decline: In August, Indian students arriving in the U.S. had dropped 44% from the previous year, the lowest level of Indian student enrollment since the pandemic, affecting university enrollment. 🎓
- Afghanistan-Pakistan Clashes: Afghan officials accusing Pakistan of bombing Kabul and eastern marketplace areas will only increase tensions in an area already prone international incidents. ⚔