I-PAC raid row: SC to hear ED plea alleging interference by Mamata Banerjee today

IANS | February 18, 2026 7:38 AM

New Delhi, Feb 18 (IANS) The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear on Wednesday the plea filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) alleging interference by the West Bengal government and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during the Central agency’s recent search operations at the office of political consultancy firm Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC).

Armed teen arrested outside US Capitol

IANS | February 18, 2026 7:33 AM

Washington, Feb 18 (IANS) An 18-year-old man wearing a tactical vest and carrying a loaded shotgun was arrested after running toward the US Capitol, prompting a swift response from United States Capitol Police (USCP) officers.

Substantively, nothing has changed in US-Pakistan relationship: Expert

Lalit K Jha | February 18, 2026 7:29 AM

Washington, Feb 18 (IANS) Despite improved optics and high-level engagement over the past year, the substance of the US-Pakistan relationship remains largely unchanged, a leading South Asia expert said, cautioning that symbolism has yet to translate into tangible economic or military gains for Islamabad.

US lawmakers urge indictment of Cuban leader Raul Castro

IANS | February 18, 2026 7:01 AM

Washington, Feb 18 (IANS) Four Republican lawmakers have urged President Donald Trump to direct the Justice Department to reopen a criminal probe into Cuban leader Raul Castro’s alleged role in the 1996 shootdown of two civilian aircraft operated by Brothers to the Rescue, calling for possible charges and international arrest notices.

US Congressman Ro Khanna slams Trump on Taiwan policy

IANS | February 18, 2026 6:48 AM

Washington, Feb 18 (IANS) A senior Democratic lawmaker has sharply criticised President Donald Trump over remarks suggesting he discussed future US arms sales to Taiwan with Chinese President Xi Jinping, calling the move a break from long-standing American policy.

AI may reshape global power before 2030: Anthropic chief

IANS | February 18, 2026 6:37 AM

Washington, Feb 18 (IANS) Artificial intelligence could alter the global balance of power before the end of this decade, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei said, warning that countries that reach advanced AI capabilities first may gain decisive geopolitical leverage — a development with implications for India's strategic rivalry with China.