Key Highlights from The Hindu Morning Digest – March 6, 2025

U.S. President Trump warns of destruction in Gaza unless hostages are freed. India remains silent on U.S. tariff announcements. Jaishankar discusses Kashmir and U.S.-India relations amid changing geopolitical dynamics. Progress reported on tunnel rescue operations and significant gold seizures in India. PM Modi emphasizes digital healthcare transformation, while Pakistan mourns twin bombing victims. Indian cricket team seeks ODI title, and Sharath Kamal shifts focus to mentoring young athletes.

U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Hamas, stating that further destruction of Gaza will occur if hostages are not released. As he strongly supports Israel amid a precarious ceasefire, he affirmed that the U.S. is expediting substantial military assistance to Israel to ensure that it can “finish the job.”

In a separate matter, India has yet to respond to President Trump’s announcement regarding reciprocal tariffs against the country. His administration plans to continue these tariffs without immediate feedback from Indian authorities.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar asserted that if Pakistan vacates Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, the longstanding Kashmir issue would be resolved altogether. This comment came during an event at Chatham House, where he addressed questions regarding diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict through U.S.-India relations under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Jaishankar also highlighted several of President Trump’s priorities that align with India’s interests, particularly in the context of a changing geopolitical landscape. He remarked, “I think we see a President and an administration which, in our parlance, is moving towards multi-polarity.”

Colonel Parikshit Mehra of the Border Roads Organisation provided an update on the Srisailam Left Bank Canal tunnel rescue operation, emphasizing the substantial progress made in debris removal and site stabilization.

In the Ranya Rao case, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence reported that the total seizure has reached ₹17.29 crore, marking one of the largest gold confiscations at Kempegowda International Airport, with a weight of 14.2 kg.

Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition, pledged to address the issues faced by railway porters who courageously aided during a recent stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, securing lives and supporting relief efforts.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a post-budget webinar, expressed the importance of tele-medicine expansion at Primary Health Centres, aiming to enhance healthcare delivery through digital initiatives, which he believes will transform lives significantly.

The Indian government will brief Ambassadors and Heads of Missions regarding the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) initiative in a meeting scheduled for March 13.

In international developments, the U.S. confirmed direct discussions with Hamas regarding the release of American hostages, as tensions rise with threats of renewed military action by Israel despite a fragile ceasefire.

Additionally, President Trump announced a one-month exemption from new tariffs for U.S. automakers on imports from Canada and Mexico, following discussions with key industry leaders to mitigate potential trade war impacts.

In Pakistan, a city mourned after twin suicide bombings resulted in 18 fatalities, including five soldiers, with the Pakistani Taliban-linked group claiming responsibility for the attack.

As for sports, the Indian cricket team, under captain Rohit Sharma, is determined to overcome the challenge posed by Australia and aim for their first global ODI title since 2013.

Sharath Kamal, India’s prominent paddler, expressed enthusiasm for mentoring young talent after concluding his celebrated career, marking a new chapter in his professional journey.

In summary, the recent developments encompass a wide array of diplomatic warnings regarding hostage situations, trade tariff strategies, and insights on crucial geopolitical relationships. The reports underline ongoing military, economic, and social dynamics both within India and internationally, showcasing the multifaceted challenges and resolutions being navigated by various leaders and institutions.

Original Source: www.thehindu.com